The Gold Coast not only boasts an 80-kilometer coastline and a 40-kilometer stretch of sandy beach, but we also have tropical rainforests that are millions of years old! If you want to breathe fresh air and relax your body and mind, the first choice is to take a leisurely hike in the hinterland of the Gold Coast! Moreover, you must visit places with mountains, water, and waterfalls. In the summer, you can even swim there!
Come and take a look at the several must-visit light hiking and waterfall trips we have summarised for you on the Gold Coast! (It is recommended to go by car.)
Best Waterfalls on the Gold Coast
Springbrook National Park
Part of the Gondwana Rainforests World Heritage Area, the trees here date back 180 million years. There are several waterways that flow over waterfalls and into rock pools below.
- Twin Falls & Blackfellow Falls
There are two waterfalls visible from the tropical rainforest that spans the Springbrook Plateau. Spectacular views can be seen at every turn along the trail, which crosses streams and passes through rock crevices. From the cliff above, you can witness the wonder of crossing the gorge. As the starting and ending points of this trail are uphill and downhill, it can be relatively challenging. However, it is worth it for the breathtaking natural scenery along the way.
- Purling Brook Falls
Purling Brook Falls is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Springbrook National Park, the trail traverses rainforests and eucalyptus forests on the plateau, with encounters with wildlife along the way. Two viewing platforms for the waterfall are located near the beginning of the trail, one measuring 100 meters and the other 350 meters.
- Natural Bridge
The cave behind the waterfall is home to fireflies and small bats, as well as many other animals including rare and endangered species such as sooty owls and tusked frogs. During summer nights, you may also see fireflies and bioluminescent fungi.
Tamborine National Park
The first area in Queensland declared a national park (Witches Falls area), about an hour’s drive from Brisbane, is an ideal place for a day trip to see waterfalls. Some parts of the park offer magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean to the east and the scenic ring of the Pacific to the west. There are four major waterfalls and several rock pools, which are always popular after warm weather and rainfall.
- Cedar Creek Falls
Consisting of multiple waterfalls and rock pools, Cedar Creek Falls has always been a popular destination and an ideal spot for swimming. The journey to the first lookout is only 250m long, with a flat path suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. Along the way, there are tall eucalyptus trees, ferns, and palm trees providing shade, making it a popular spot in the summer.
- Curtis Falls
A must-see after heavy rainfall, the trail passes through lush tropical eucalyptus forest, with some basalt boulders and rock pools along the way, perfect for cooling off. The rock pools are home to platypus, turtles, eels, fish, and fireflies can also be seen.
Lamington National Park
- Morans Falls
Winding through the World Heritage-listed Gondwana rainforest, this trail has multiple lookout points, with Morans Falls lookout offering views of the waterfall and Morans Creek gorge. Further along the path is Morans Clearing Lookout, offering panoramic views of the main mountain range.
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