If you need a break from the beach and are up-to-date on shows from your last Netflix binge, then there’s really only one solution. Get kitted up in your activewear and shock your system by actually using your Lululemons for their intended purpose.
At Urban List we're passionate about getting out and about and embracing the pristine Gold Coast environment we live in. With that in mind, we’ve broken down 14 of the best bush walks on the Gold Coast/Kombumerri Country, from a quick stroll to a full day in the wilderness that’ll even make Tarzan jealous.
Witches Falls Circuit
Tamborine National Park
Unbeknownst to most of us, Mt Tamborine offers much more than just awesome wineries. If you’re looking for a day on the mountain minus the booze, we suggest this easy, but not-too-easy trek. Descending into the valley and admiring nature at its finest has never been easier, especially when you know Witches Falls Winery is back at the top of the hill. Hello, motivation.
THE DETAILS
Distance: 3.4 kilometres
Time: 1.5 hours
Grade: Moderate
Twin Falls
Springbrook National Park
Image Credit: Tourism & Events Queensland | Supplied
This well-known Gold Coast bush walk meanders through rainforest rock clefts and rewards you with a deep swimming hole and a path behind two gushing twin falls at the base. You can complete Twin Falls Circuit in two directions, starting from the picnic area or Canyon Lookout, but anti-clockwise is recommended. This track gets very busy on weekends, so we suggest hiking early or in off-peak times.
THE DETAILS
Distance: 4.6km
Time: 1.5 hours
Grade: Easy
Koala, Jabiru and Melaleuca Track Loop
Coombabah Lakelands Conservation Area
If you're after a central Gold Coast bush walk that won't take an hour in the car, we rate this Coombabah bush walk highly. The moderately challenging track traverses the wetlands and is home to plenty of koalas, kangaroos and birdlife, so you have to leave the doggo at home. We also recommend packing insect repellent as the wetlands can have alot of mosquitos, especially after rain.
THE DETAILS
Distance: 9.2km
Time: 2 hours
Grade: Moderate
Ocean View Burleigh Headland Walk
Burleigh Headland National Park
Image Credit: TEQ | Supplied
A calming contrast to the craziness of Burleigh and the Gold Coast Highway, this ocean view headland walk will smack you in the face with its beauty. If you’re lucky, you can perch up and watch whales breach, leaving you feeling worlds away. Good for either a leisurely Saturday morning stroll or a blood-pumping trot. We try to avoid going in the middle of the day, as there is little tree coverage.
THE DETAILS
Distance: 1 kilometre
Time: 30 minutes
Grade: Easy
Burleigh Headland Rainforest Circuit
Burleigh Headland National Park
Another Burleigh Headland bush walk we love is the Burleigh Headland Rainforest Circuit, which traverses the headland's dense rainforest sections. This looped route stars two lookouts, so you'll get plenty of ocean views, without all the the sun. There is quite a hill to conquer, but the panoramic views are worth it. We recommend visiting Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre after your walk, where you can immerse yourself in First Nations culture.
THE DETAILS
Distance: 3km
Time: 1 hour
Grade: Moderate
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Natural Bridge Circuit
Springbrook National Park
Image Credit: Tourism & Events Queensland | Supplied
Combining the tranquillity of rainforest streams and canopies? Yes, please. For a little day activity, take an easy stroll with your mates along the Natural Bridge Circuit and awe at the beauty of the naturally formed bridge, while the birds sing to you like you’re Snow White. If you’re looking for something extra cool, head here after dark to take in the glow-worms.
THE DETAILS
Distance: 1 kilometre
Time: 1 hour
Grade: Easy
Cedar Creek Falls
Tamborine National Park
Image Credit: Brooke Darling Photography | Supplied
Essentially, you’re walking this track to take in the tranquil cascades of Cedar Creek. With an easy one-kilometre stroll to the creek, you’ll have worked up enough of a sweat to take a dip in the three waterfalls and fresh creek water.
THE DETAILS
Distance: 1 kilometre
Time: 30 minutes
Grade: Easy
Purling Brook Falls Circuit
Springbrook National Park
Image Credit: Brooke Darling Photography | Supplied
Whith a suspension bridge for optimum views, you’ll walk through eucalypt forests before descending into the gorge for a view from below Purling Brook Falls. With a steady descent and climb involved (best travelled in a clockwise direction), we suggest packing some lunch to rest at the picnic area. If you’re feeling adventurous, add two kilometres and take a dip in Warringa Pool.
THE DETAILS
Distance: 4 kilometres
Time: 2 to 3 hours
Grade: Moderate
Warrie Circuit
Springbrook National Park
Image Credit: Tourism & Events QLD | Supplied
Starting at a cliff base before descending into a rainforest, on Warrie Circuit you’ll be exposed to stunning canopies, flowing streams, creeks and gullies. Take your time to appreciate the beauty of the canyon and its cliff of cascading waterfalls. Take adequate supplies (AKA food) as you’re in for a solid day of walking.
THE DETAILS
Distance: 17 kilometres
Time: 6 to 7 hours
Grade: Hard
Curtis Falls Circuit
Tamborine National Park
Image Credit: Tourism & Events QLD | Supplied
If you’ve not visited the gushing beauty of Curtis Falls on Tamborine Mountain, you’re missing out. For a strong flowing waterfall, visit right after heavy rainfall with a rain jacket and brolly in tow. With the most stunning setting in lush rainforest, you’re bound to be feeling all the chilled out feels with this picturesque setting.
THE DETAILS
Distance: 1 kilometre
Time: 30 minutes
Grade: Eaesy
Cougal Cascades
Currumbin Valley
Image Credit: Brooke Darling Photography | Supplied
If you’re not feeling a mission drive to reach the hinterland, this is your perfect option. Located roughly 30 minutes drive into the Currumbin Valley, the treetops along the Cougal Cascades track will have your neck sore from constant craning. Perfect for an easy family walk or romantic stroll, clamber down to the rock pools and cool off in the fresh water streams and flowing waterfalls.
THE DETAILS
Distance: 1.5 kilometres
Time: 30 to 40 minutes
Grade: Easy
Major Bush Walking Sections
The Border Track connects the Green Mountains (O'Reilly's) and Binna Burra sections of Lamington National Park. There is a huge plethora of walks, ranging from 1km all the way up to the 21.4km Border Track between the two locations.
Green Mountains (O’Reilly’s) Walks
Lamington National Park
Image Credit: Brooke Darling Photography | Supplied
Roughly an hour’s drive away from the glitter of the Gold Coast is where you’ll find yourself on a windy road incline with views that’ll take your breath away. Say hello to O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat.
With a drive equally as entertaining as the various walks, it’s the perfect remedy for a day off the grid and there's a heap of walks in the Green Mountains section. We love the 2.4km Wishing Tree track, the 4.6km Morans Falls and the 3.4km Python Rock track. Do one better and take the kids and explore the 800m sky-high treetop walk for some family fun.
Binna Burra Walks
Lamington National Park
Image Credit: TEQ | Supplied
On the other end of the Border Track, lies the stunning Binna Burra Lodge. Positioned 800 metres above sea level in the heart of Lamington National Park, Binna Burra is centre stage to some of Australia’s most spectacular natural features. It's also surrounded by incredible bush walks.
Start small with short walks like Caves Track and Gwongoorool Track before tackling half-day hikes like Lower Bellbird Track and the scenic Coomera circuit. Of course, if you're really feeling game you can tackle the Border Track connecting the Green Mountains and Binna Burra sections of the park.
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Main image credit: Tourism and Events Queensland | Supplied
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