Fantastic Springbrook National Park Walks You’ll Actually Love!
As I opened the car door, ready to set out on a Springbrook National Park walk in the Gold Coast Hinterlands, I realised with horror that I had forgotten the most important thing.
“I forgot the baby carrier!” I squealed.
The same carrier that I had used every day for the last 4 years. The same carrier that was supposed to carry my then 18 months old on a Springbrook National Park walk. The very same carrier that I now remember is hanging off the table in our Jayco Camper back at the campgrounds.
“What do you want to do?” asked hubby.
“I’ll just have to carry her the old fashioned way….on my hip” I replied, hiding my self doubt.
Lesson learned. My youngest is heavy and my back was killing me by the end of it but the scenery and walk itself were absolutely amazing. Now that they’re a bit older and could absolutely manage this walk on their own, I can’t wait to head back and do it again.
We weren’t the only family on the track that day either. The Springbrook National Park walks are frequented by families, couples, singles and grandparents alike.
The walks at Springbrook are amazing!
The walks are amazing with waterfalls, cascades, lush rainforest and plenty of impressive views. The park cover 6,725 and the walks range from easy-peasy to challenging, ensuring there is a track for every person to enjoy.
The flora and fauna is impressive, with over 100 types of birds, frogs and reptiles and tree species over 2,000 years old.
(Spoiler alert – She did NOT make the whole 4km but she gave it a good go!)
Springbrook National Park Short Walks
The Natural Bridge Walk
As that this track is an easy 1km sealed circuit, it’s ideal for families with younger children. The track traverses through the beautiful rainforest, across Cave Creek and into the arched cave where you will get to watch the waterfall plunge from above.
Even when it’s stinking hot, the shaded rainforest ensures the walk itself is fairly comfortable, taking about an hour.
Visiting at night means witnessing thousands upon thousands of glow worms lining the cave. Technically, they’re not actually worms, but the larval stage of a small fly. Either way, it’s a cool sight to see with the best viewing times between December and March.
Toilets and shaded picnic tables are available here but expect to share your picnic area with some cheeky scrub turkeys.
Credit – Tourism & Events Queensland
Twin Falls Circuit Walk
The Twin Falls Circuit Walk is my top pick for Springbrook National Park walks. This is because it has beautiful scenic spots, is achievable with kids and at 4km, is a comfortable length to get a daily dose of exercise.
If your kids are too young to walk 4km (like mine were), you will definitely need a carrier of some sort or be prepared to piggyback them. There are opportunities to swim in rock pools, walk past rock clefts and walk behind waterfalls. Stroll among ancient palms and tree ferns, and take in the view from the fantastic lookouts.
This Springbrook National Park walk should take around 1 – 2 hours and can be started at either the Tallanbana picnic area or at the Canyon lookout. Keep an eye out for the signage along the way as it guides you through the different forest types.
Credit – Tourism & Events QLD and Matthew Taylor Thomas
Purling Brook Falls Circuit
The Purling Brook Falls Circuit is another great Springbrook National Park walk. This hike is also around 4km and passes through open eucalypt forest before descending into the gorge to view the falls from underneath. Walkers will then cross a suspension bridge before a steady climb through the forest which returns back to the picnic area.
If you’re feeling energetic, once you’re at the base of the falls, a 2km detour can be taken on the Warringa Pool track which leads downstream.
Credit – Tourism & Events Queensland
Springbrook National Palk VERY Short Walks to Various Lookouts
If you’re not feeling up to a Springbrook National Park walk but still want to enjoy the beautiful surrounds and take in some great views, check out the following:
Wunburra Lookout – 30m return
Canyon Lookout – 30m return.
Goomoolahra Falls Lookout – 200m return. The track passes through the Goomoolahra picnic area to several lookouts.
Best of All Lookout – (yes that really is it’s name) – 600m return.
Credit – Tourism & Events Queensland
Springbrook National Park Long Walks
Warrie Circuit
At 17km return, the Warrie Circuit is better suited for those wanting a challenge or families with older kids up for an adventure.
The Warrie Circuit is by far, the longest of the Springbrook National Park walks. It follows the base of the cliffs before descending into the rainforest where walkers can enjoy crossing creeks and gullies.
The Aboriginal word “Warrie” actually means “rushing water” and its not hard to see why this circuit has that particular name.
A back pack with food, drink and first aid kid is essential for this walk and its ideal to allow around 6 hours.
Credit – Tourism & Events Queensland
Where to Stay to Visit Springbrook National Park and do the Walks
Camping – The Settlement camping area is the only camping area in Springbrook National Park. Located on Carricks Road, it’s suitable for tents, camper trailers and campervans (not suitable for caravans) and is booked through Queensland National Parks booking system. More information on the campsite can be found >>here<<.
More Comfortable Accommodation:
Alternatively, there is plenty of accommodation on the Gold Coast if you would rather enjoy the city and day trip into Springbrook National Park to enjoy the walks. We particularly enjoy Swell Resort in Burleigh Heads.
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