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.
We’ve broken down the best bush walks on the Gold Coast, 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 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 kilometres
Time: 1.5 hours
Grade: Moderate
O’Reilly’s Rainforest Walk
Lamington National Park
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. With a drive equally as entertaining as the various walks, it’s the perfect remedy for a day off the grid. Do one better, take the kids and explore the treetop walk for some family fun.
THE DETAILS
Distance: Varies from 5 to 10 kilometres
Time: 2 hours
Grade: Easy to moderate
Ocean View Walk
Burleigh Headland National Park
A calming contrast to the craziness of Burleigh and the GC highway, this option 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.
THE DETAILS
Distance: 1 kilometre
Time: 30 minutes
Grade: Easy
Natural Bridge Circuit
Springbrook National Park
Combining the tranquillity of rainforest streams and canopies? Yes, please! For a little day activity, take an easy stroll with your mates 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
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
With a suspension bridge for optimum views, you’ll walk through eucalypt forests before descending into the gorge for a view from below. 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
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
Cougal Cascades
Currumbin Valley
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 will have your neck sore from constant craning. Perfect for an easy family walk or romantic stroll, you clamber down to the rock pools and cool off in the fresh water streams.
THE DETAILS
Distance: 1.5 kilometres
Time: 30 to 40 minutes
Grade: Easy
Toolona Creek Circuit
Lamington National Park
This walk will see your day jam-packed with beauty and countless waterfalls and cascades. With a day lost (metaphorically speaking) in the wilderness, make sure you’re sorted with food, adequate hiking shoes and lots of water. You don’t want to be underprepared for this one. Rained recently? Beware of leeches...
THE DETAILS
Distance: 17 kilometres
Time: 5 to 6 hours
Grade: Hard
Curtis Falls And Joalah Lower Creek Circuit
Tamborine National Park
If you’ve not visited the gushing beauty of Curtis Falls, 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: 5 kilometres
Time: 2 to 3 hours
Grade: Moderate
Green Mountains Section
Lamington National Park
The Green Mountain Section of Lamington National Park is for everybody, with trekking options to suit beginners or pros. If you really want to challenge yourself, take the Mount Merino track for a full-day experience. You’ll be too distracted by stunning canopies so you won’t pay much attention to your burning legs (hopefully).
THE DETAILS
Distance: 24 kilometres (shorter options available)
Time: 8 hours
Grade: Hard
Looking for more of the best bush walks on the Gold Coast? You can’t beat this handy little guide.
Image credit: Tourism and Events Queensland & Brooke Darling Photography