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. Checking out the bush walks Gold Coast swings open its gate to. Get kitted up in your activewear and shock your system by actually using your Lululemons for their intended purpose.
I'm a 'put on the mozzie spray' and 'hike up the socks' kind of adventurer. So make no mistake, if I'm out on a bush walk it better be a good one. Lucky for you I've pulled on my hat, topped up the drink bottle and batted away more insects than I could ever count. The result? A complete round up of my absolute go-to bush walks on the Gold Coast. Some are long, others a short wander. And there's something to be said about flowing stream to dunk your face in mid-walk. It's all here.
A bush walk is technically a leisurely hike into wild or uncultivated country. So while an average bush walk might look like dry sticks and dirt dust, Gold Coast bush walks can feature anything from waterfalls and natural pools, to ocean views and even mangrove and paperbark forests.
At Urban List, the team and I are passionate about embracing the pristine Gold Coast environment we live in. With that in mind, here are 14 of the best bush walks on the Gold Coast/Kombumerri Country.
Gold Coast Bush Walks At A Glance
Waterfall Bush Walks Gold Coast
Witches Falls Circuit
132-138 Main Western Rd, Tamborine Mountain QLD 4272
There was a time when I thought Mount Tamborine was all about awesome wineries and kinda kooky fudge stores. But now I head straight for this easy, but not-too-easy trek.
It's a meander down through towering woodlands and through a waving palm forest. This is one of those bush walks Gold Coast wildlife lovers flock to because while it's often quite dry in the lagoon and the waterfall itself is a humble one, stop for a moment and you'll hear an enchanting chorus of birdlife that all call this place home. Be prepared for mud and some more 'off-road' style tracks.
Descending into the valley and admiring nature does have an extra perk here. Witches Falls Winery is back at the top of the hill. Hello, motivation.
THE DETAILS
- How to get there: Start at the picnic area on Main Western Road
- Distance: 3.4 kilometres
- Time: 1.5 hours
- Grade: Moderate
- Facilities: BBQs, picnic tables and toilets
- Nearby recommendation: Witches Falls Winery
- Where to stay: Woolcott Cottage
Twin Falls
Springbrook National Park, QLD 4213
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 I suggest hiking early or in off-peak times.
THE DETAILS
- Where to go: Park at Tallanbana picnic area (if the small car park's full, everyone just parks on the side of the road, easy)
- Distance: 4.2km
- Time: 2 hours
- Grade: Easy
- Facilities: Toilets and picnic tables
- Where to stay: Mouses House is close by and idyllic. Opt for a spa and stream chalet
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, I like to take an easy stroll with my mates along the Natural Bridge Circuit and awe at the beauty of the naturally formed bridge (take the track clockwise).
It's one of the shorter walks, and in my opinion one of the most accessible for a range of abilities. There are a few steps, but as far as bush walks Gold Coast offers, it's definitely one of the cruisier options. I've heard of people going at nighttime to see the glow worms, but haven't been game myself. You'll get to check out the waterfall from different angles and on a hot day, the welcomed coolness from the forest is something else.
THE DETAILS
- How to get there: Type Natural Bridge into maps
- Distance: 1 kilometre
- Time: 1 hour return
- Grade: Easy
- Facilities: Toilets, picnic area
Cedar Creek Falls
76 Cedar Creek Falls Rd, Tamborine Mountain QLD 4272
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
- Where to go: 76 Cedar Creek Falls Road, Mount Tamborine QLD 4272
- Distance: 1 kilometre return
- Time: 30 minutes
- Grade: Easy
- Facilities: Toilets, picnic tables, BBQs
- What to do: Post bush walk session at SOL Elements Bathhouse, grab a drink at Loborn, load up on pastries from North Stores
- Where to stay: The Castle on Tamborine because why not
Purling Brook Falls Circuit
Purling Brook Falls, Springbrook National Park QLD 4213
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 in my opinion), I 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.
You'll see 100-metre tall waterfalls, glittering swimming holes and a fragrant eucalyptus forest. Yes, it's in Springbrook, but the water's actually from Little Nerang River. And if the stars align with the sun, light and water, you may even catch a rainbow at the bottom of the massive waterfall.
THE DETAILS
- Where to go: Start at Purling Brook Falls on maps
- Distance: 4-8 kilometres
- Time: 2 hours for the waterfall round trip, 3.5 hours for the full track
- Grade: Moderate
- Facilities: Toilets and picnic areas
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Warrie Circuit
8 Canyon Pde, Springbrook National Park QLD 4213
Image Credit: Tourism & Events QLD | Supplied
Starting at a cliff base before descending into a rainforest, Warrie Circuit features stunning canopies, flowing streams, creeks and gullies. I always take my time on this bushwalking track to appreciate the beauty of the canyon and its cliff of cascading waterfalls. I also take adequate supplies (AKA snacks and full meals if poss) since it's a solid day of walking.
I recommend you start at the Canyon Lookout entrance and to the right. Dress covered since there's frequent sightings of snakes here, including red belly black snakes. In exchange you'll be privvy to more waterfalls than you can poke a stick at, flowing streams and sweeping views. If you're game, the detour scramble up Springbrook pinnacle comes highly recommended. I will say, expect to get your feet submerged rock hopping across streams and making frequent leech checks. The Meeting of Waters is around haldway and from there it's about 5km of uphill trekking. This is a bush walk Gold Coast hiking fanatics will become as obsessed with as I am.
THE DETAILS
- Where to leave from: Canyon Lookout, Springbrook National Park QLD 4213
- Distance: 14-26 kilometres
- Time: 6 to 7 hours
- Grade: Hard
- Facilities: Toilets are at Tallanbana Picnic Area about 300 metres before Canyon Lookout
Curtis Falls Circuit
14-18 Dapsang Dr, Eagle Heights, Tamborine National Park QLD 4272
Image Credit: Tourism & Events QLD | Supplied
If you’ve not visited the gushing beauty of Curtis Falls on Tamborine Mountain, here's your sign to add it to your bush walking hit list. For a strong flowing waterfall, visit right after heavy rainfall with a rain jacket and a can-do mud-stomping attitude. Honestly, it's the most stunning setting in lush rainforest, and I'm basically guaranteed to leave feeling chilled out every time.
It's a short walk, and a nice way to end a day at Mount Tambo. It's not a loop, so keep that in mind while you make your way down the sometimes slippery but always steep steps. That being said, this is my pick of bush walks Gold Coast newbies to hiking should check out. The walk's short, the terrain's reasonably manageable and remember to look up at towering, ancient trees.
THE DETAILS
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Where to leave from: Curtis Falls Carpark (18 Dapsang Dr, Eagle Heights QLD 4272)
- Distance: 1 kilometre
- Time: 30 minutes return
- Grade: Easy
- What to do: Have a wander down the Gallery Walk, grab a bev at Cauldron Distillery and dinner at Hickory Slow
- Where to stay: Cedar Tub Cottage
Cougal Cascades
Currumbin Valley QLD 4223
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.
It’s an easy meander from the car park and a steep climb down stairs to the main pool, ft. a waterfall and natural waterslide, if you're game to scoot down (I haven't been). Or, if you'd like a bit of privacy, head a bit further up the track for a somewhat sketchy hike down to a pool or stream (walking shoes are helpful).
The 'cascade' part means there are a few different pools here, so even when it's busy you'll find a spot to splash. That's my favourite part about this place. Even sitting creek-side and watching the wildlife. Heads up, there are a few eels in the waterways and sometimes yabbies too.
Phone reception cuts out a bit before you arrive, so if you're meeting with mates, make sure everyone's on the same page for time, meet in the car park or at nearby Pasture & Co. ahead of time. If you're lucky, you'll snag a park in the car park, but prepare for a short walk to the start of this bitumen path on busy days.
THE DETAILS
- Where to go: For most accurate directions, type 'Eden Health Retreat' into maps, then follow Currumbin Creek Road past it and you'll reach the car park in minutes
- Distance: 1.5 kilometres
- Time: 30 to 40 minutes
- Grade: Easy
- Facilities: Toilets and picnic tables, bring your own water and take rubbish with you
- What to do: Grab a slice of enormous lemon meringue pie, a cuppa and a bite at Pasture & Co., or book in for a post-waterfall soak session at The Bathhouse at Ground.
- Where to stay: Acute Abode
Forest Bush Walks Gold Coast
Koala 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, I rate this Coombabah bush walk collection highly. There are a few tracks all in the same area that traverse the wetlands, towering eucalypt forests and little creeks that rise after rains. This place is home to plenty of koalas, kangaroos and birdlife, so be sure to leave the doggo at home.
The Melaleuca Trail is off to the right as you enter the area, you'll notice the kangaroo information board and it'll mark the entrance of the 1.2km loop. This walk is completely flat and only takes about 30 minutes while you wind through ferns and between paperbarks. We always see a bunch of butterflies here, but depending on the time of year it might be a chorus of frogs or some curious ducks you meet.
The Koala trail is a bit further up (past the airfield) with a few spots to park on the right side of the road. It's marked by an open field and long dirt road to walk down into the forest. This trail is massive so be sure to take snacks, water, a hat and sunscreen. Maybe some mozzie repellant too. It's definitely the best Gold Coast bush walk for spotting kangaroos and wallabies. Even, as the name suggests, koalas up in the canopies. Respect these wild creatures by keeping your distance.
My insider tip is to drop by around sunset to the paddock opposite the Melaleuca Trail. The field fills with hundreds of kangaroos and their sweet babies. Stand at a distance with awe and don't approach, it's honestly a site to behold.
THE DETAILS
- How to get there: Follow Rain Tree Glen Road (off Pine Ridge Road, not via Shelter Road)
- Distance: 1-10km
- Time: 30 mins-6 hours
- Grade: Moderate
- Facilities: None, BYO everything (including water)
- What's around: Harbour Town Outlet Shopping
- Nearby recommendation: Post-walk bev at Crafty's
Rain Forest Circuit and Ocean View Burleigh Headland Walk
Burleigh Headland National Park
Image Credit: TEQ | Supplied
I'm always gobsmacked by the calming contrast to the craziness of Burleigh and the Gold Coast Highway to this peaceful slice of heaven. Burleigh's iconic ocean view headland walk smacks you in the face with its beauty.
You can either park at the Jellurgal Aboriginal Culture Centre, begin with a meander through the centre and to learn something new, then wander past the Greek-inspired building right around the headland. Or, snag a park on Burleigh hill and start the track at the very top. Both routes have their perks and there's no wrong choice here, though a park outside of Burleigh Hill is always going to have less competition.
There are two routes to take, either opt for the Rainforest Circuit on entry at Burleigh Hill (or at the first intersection if entering from the other side). This is a more challenging walk, into dense forest where snakes and lizards and friendly kookaburra's make themselves known. Or, opt for the Oceanview Track for a more gentle walk around the outside of the hill with oceanfront views. Whale watching season is May through to November, so you may even spot whales frollocking on this bush walk. That's something pretty special about this area in my opinion.
Good for either a leisurely Saturday morning stroll or a blood-pumping trot. I try to avoid going on the Oceanview track in the middle of the day, as there is little tree coverage. Rainforest Circuit? You're laughing. Here's Burleigh's bush walk map to keep you company.
THE DETAILS
- Where to go: The top of Burleigh Hill (Goodwin Terrace) or near Jellurgal Culture Centre (off Gold Coast Highway)
- Distance: 1km (Oceanview Trail) 2.3km (Rainforest Trail)
- Time: 30 minutes-1 hour
- Grade: Easy-moderate
- What else to do: Have a pre-walk clink at The Tropic or take a Justin Lane pizza to Burleigh Hill then check out Jellurgal Aboriginal Culture Centre
- Where to stay: Go all out with an extra luxe jaunt at The Modrian
Green Mountains (O’Reilly’s) Walks
Lamington National Park Rd, Canungra QLD 4275
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. AKA my favourite area to roadtrip to for epic bush walks Gold Coast locals will be all too familiar with.
The super steep drive's equally as entertaining as the various walks, so it’s the perfect remedy for a day off the grid and there's a heap of walks in the Green Mountains section. I personally 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.
THE DETAILS
- Where to go: A bunch of walks leave from O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat
- Distance and time: Various
- Grade: Easy to Difficult
- Facilities: O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat has toilets, a bar, restaurant and cafe
- What to do: Swill tipple at O'Reilly's Canungra Valley Vineyards
- Where to stay: O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat
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.
I recommend you 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, but it's quite the expedition and only experienced hikers should give it a shot in my opinion. This is the kind of bush walk hotspot that calls for a stay overnight, or even for a few to lap up the beauty and tranquility of the area.
THE DETAILS
- Where to go: Binna Burra Lodge, 1040 Binna Burra Rd, Beechmont QLD 4211
- Distance and time: Various
- Grade: Easy to Difficult, including full day hikes
- Facilities: Binna Burra Trailhead has toilets, picnic tables and BBQs
- What to do: Dine at The Paddock Restaurant
- Where to stay: Binna Burra Lodge or Beechmont Estate
Looking For More?
Main image credit: Tourism and Events Queensland | Supplied
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