Spectacular waterfalls, panoramic coastal views and lush rainforest make this heritage-listed nature reserve in the Gold Coast hinterland a wonder to visit.
Follow winding trails along forested gorges and stop at waterfalls and lookouts along the way in scenic Springbrook National Park. The park is part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a unique slice of wilderness.
The sanctuary is known for its diverse flora and fauna and wonderful views. The park stretches over 6721acres (2719 hectares) in the so-called Scenic Rim of southeast Queensland, a mountainous and forested area close to the New South Wales border.
Take a drive to Canyon Lookout for jaw-dropping views of the Gold Coast punctuated by volcanic ridges and valleys. From there, you can take the Twin Falls Circuit, a 4-kilometer (2.5-mile) track that passes behind two waterfalls and through rock clefts. Follow the Purling Brook Falls circuit to see spectacular waterfalls from a suspension bridge across Little Nerang Creek.
Don’t miss the Natural Bridge, the park’s most picturesque geological feature. The rock was formed over millions of years by water tumbling through the roof of a basalt cave. Take the fairly easy circuit walk over Cave Creek to see the waterfall entering the cave, forming a picture-perfect emerald pool.Wander back through the rainforest and listen out for green catbirds, paradise riflebirds and wompoo fruit-doves. Join a nocturnal tour on summer nights to view the amazing light show put on by glow worms, luminous fungi and fireflies.
A café opposite the Wunburra Lookout offers home-made lunch dishes or Devonshire tea in a quaint cottage dining room setting. There are also many beautiful places to stop and have a picnic, such as the lovely Goomoolahra Falls Picnic Area.
Springbrook National Park is about a two-hour drive south of Brisbane. Book ahead via the Queensland Government website to reserve a basic camp site within the park or stay just outside the park in privately run campgrounds, lodges and bed-and-breakfast rooms.
