A Local's Guide to Springbrook National Park
A hidden treasure tucked behind the world-famous beaches, the wonders of Springbrook National Park are often saved for locals and the astute traveller.
Here in the Gold Coast Hinterland, the world heritage listed Gondwana Rainforest, home to Springbrook National Park, awaits to be explored. Its ancient beauty, spectacular waterfalls, dormant volcanoes, and breathtaking serenity is a striking contrast to the golden beaches the Gold Coast is known for.
If you’ve spent one too many days in the sun, but still want to breathe in the fresh air, a day exploring the awe-inspiring Springbrook National Park will be a lovely reprieve.
In this Blog
Scenic Highlights and Must-See Attractions
The world heritage Gondwana Rainforest consists of four national parks - Springbrook, Lamington, Mount Barney, and Main Ranges - and attracts over two million visitors annually. The most famous of these areas is Springbrook National Park. Its fame comes from its number of stunning sites. Here are the top Springbrook National Park spots to include on your adventure.
Natural Bridge
Credit: Queensland
The most famous site (and photographs) in Springbrook National Park come from the incredible Natural Bridge. Formed over the millenia by the force of water falling over the basalt cave, Natural Bridge is a picturesque rock formation that draws crowds.
But the Natural Bridge isn’t the only thing you should be looking at in the area. The trees and foliage enroute to this historic location are as ancient as the dinosaurs, if not older.
Springbrook Plateau
Take a birds-eye view across the ancient landscape from Springbrook Plateau. From atop the Plateau, you’ll be able to see waterfalls, subtropical rainforest, and mountain streams. From here, take the short walk to Purling Brook Falls - a 100 metre water cascade between the deep rainforest valley.
Wunburra Lookout
One of the first signposted stops as you enter Springbrook National Park, Wunburra Lookout is a roadside stop with panoramic views across the rainforest and wider Gold Coast region. Here, you’ll be able to see the iconic Gold Coast skyline, rolling green hills, all the way to the Hinze Dam - the region’s biggest water supply.
Goomoolahra Falls
Goomoolahra Falls, also known as Bilbrough Falls, is one of the must-see spots in the world-heritage listed rainforest. These imposing waterfalls will make you feel small as you gaze up at them. If you’re spending a day exploring the area, the Goomoolahra Falls are a must-see. You can even rest up here at the small on-site cafe.
Swimming at Springbrook National Park
While you’re chasing waterfalls, it's important to know where you can and can’t swim. So before you go leaping into the crystal clear waters, follow the signs… or just read the below.
Can You Swim at Springbrook National Park?
When visiting such incredible places and sites, people often ask can you swim at Springbrook National Park? In short, yes, but only in certain places.
For visitors' safety and environmental preservation, it’s important to follow the signs around the world-heritage area. While it may be tempting to swim in the blue, idyllic waterfalls, the only swimming hole in Springbrook National Park is Warringa Pool.
To get to this wonderfully scenic waterhole, simply take the extra loop from Purling Brook Falls, lay out a towel, and take in the ancient wonders of the national park.
No-Go Places in the National Park
The Springbrook National Park is split into four sections - Springbrook Plateau, Natural Bridge, Mount Cougal, and Numinbah. All of these places are open to the public in various aspects, however some do have restricted areas.
In the Natural Bridge section, part of Cave Creek is now closed off. Access to parts of the creek, creek bank, and the cave is now prohibited.
Popular Hiking and Walking Trails
Lace up your sneakers and get ready to explore the best of the Gold Coast Hinterlands walks and trails. If it's a long walk to hit those 10,000 steps, or a short walk to see the highlights of Hinterland you’re after, the trails of Springbrook National Parks have you covered.
Purling Brook Falls Circuit
Credit: Hiking the World
A gentle 4 km loop walk, the Purling Brook Falls Circuit takes you from the top falls lookout, down to the waterfall base and back up again. One of the more popular Springbrook National Park trails, this walk will reward you with sheer cliffs, suspension bridges, and of course cascading waterfalls.
If you have extra time, take the offshoot hike to the Warringa Pool track and swimming hole. This downstream walk will guide you to the falls base, adding an extra 2 km and a swim to your walk.
Our best tip - unless you love climbing stairs, hike the Purling Brook Falls Circuit clockwise.
Twin Falls Circuit
Starting from either the Tallanbana picnic area or Canyon lookout, take the easy 4 km walk through the Twin Falls Circuit. This spectacular loop walk will take you behind two waterfalls, through rock cleft formations, and even pass the oldest carbon-dated trees in mainland Australia - the 1500 year old brush box trees.
You’ll need to dedicate at least two hours for this scenic hike to truly marvel in its magic.
Gold Coast Great Walk
Credit: Destination Gold Coast
This one may require hiking boots. For more serious walkers, take an epic multi-day adventure hike covering the Gold Coast region. Scheduled to take three days, this 54 km one-way marathon hike is a once-in-a-lifetime journey taking in ancient flora, fauna, and even a dormant volcano.
The Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk is recommended to walk west to east, starting in Lamington National Park and ending in Settlement camp in the Springbrook National Park.
How to Get to Springbrook National Park
Whether you’re coming all the way from Brisbane or the local area, here’s how to get to Springbrook National Park from the Gold Coast.
From the Gold Coast, it’s a scenic 50 km drive for Surfers Paradise. Yes, you’ll need a car for this one as there’s no public transport to Springbrook National Park.
Access to the national park is via the Highway, so you don’t need to worry about any unsealed roads.
Extra Tips to Make Your Day
Going to a world-heritage listed area like the Springbrook National Park should be treasured. Make the most of your adventure into ancient landscapes with these tips.
Stay the Night in The Settlement Campground
If you’d like a night under the stars, or just want to get up early to explore the national park, ‘The Settlement’ campground is the perfect place to nestle in for the night. The only camping area in Springbrook National Park, the Settlement lets you really soak up nature and also lets you visit the awesome glow worm caves at night.
When to Visit Springbrook National Park
While the Springbrook National Park is wonderful to explore any time of year, local’s know that galavanting under the glorious green canopy and escaping the Summer heat is a pro move. The luscious foliage will keep every hiker cooler than a hand-held fan.
It’s also advantageous to get an early start. Beating the crowds is a sure-fire way to feel like you have the world to yourself in this magical environment.
Safety Tips
While exploring these glorious landscapes, it's important to not get carried away. Waterfalls also mean cliff edges, and that can lead to landslides. Always follow the paths and signs to ensure you stay safe on your travels - remember that a selfie isn’t worth the possible slip.
Put Your Feet Up at Dorsett Gold Coast
After a long day of exploring ancient worlds, rest up at one of the Gold Coast’s most modern and stylish hotels. Dorsett Gold Coast is perfectly located in the heart of Broadbeach, even closer to Springbrook National Park than Surfers Paradise.
If you didn’t soak up enough swimming in national parks waterfalls, lay back at the glistening Isoletto Pool Club as you overlook the famous Broadbeach coastline.
Book your stay at Dorsett Gold Coast to experience the best the Gold Coast and Gold Coast Hinterland has to offer.
