Hikes with WOW Factor
Want to get the kids away from their devices?
These South East Queensland walks offer a “Wow” experience, that will leave them wanting more!
1. Twin Falls Circuit, Springbrook
- See 4 waterfalls
- Walk behind 2 waterfalls
- Cross a bridge over a waterfall
- Swim under a waterfall
- Walk through a cave / rocky outcrops
- Enjoy views from multiple lookouts
This circuit is approx 4kms return and is suitable for walkers of moderate fitness levels. Although this hike is popular with families, caution is advised when completing with children. The pathway is quite narrow at times, with exposed cliffs and slippery surfaces.
The Twin Falls Circuit can be accessed from Canyon Lookout or Tallanbana Picnic Grounds. If you walk the circuit in an anti-clockwise direction, you will travel downwards along the steeper sections.
Toilets and shelters are located at the picnic grounds. Learn more.
2. Northbrook Gorge, Dundas
- Walk through creek (some spots require wading!)
- Rock-hopping
- Explore interesting rock formations
- Swim in multiple rock pools
- See small waterfall and cascades
Located within the D’aguilar National Park, this hike provides opportunities for creek exploration and rock pool swimming. Unlike a traditional bushwalk, visitors mainly traverse the creek – clambering across boulders and navigating the gently flowing water.
The complete trail is 6kms return, however the Northbrook Gorge Alternate Trailhead reduces the distance to 4kms return.
There are no toilets and very restrictive parking. Learn more.
3. The Caves Track, Binna Burra
- Sit in a cave / under rocky outcrops
- Walk through a tunnel carved into the rock
- Negotiate exposed cliff edges
- Enjoy stunning views
The Caves Track spans through the forest between the Binna Burra Information Centre and an entrance near Binna Burra Lodge. If you return to the start via the same path, the hike is approximately 3.5kms.
The track is not particularly difficult but it is rated as a level four due to the exposed cliff edges and possibilities of falling rocks.
The highlight of this journey is the Kweebani Cave, which can be found directly after a walk-through tunnel. This section is 1.1kms from the entrance at the Binna Burra Information Centre.
4. White Rock, Spring Mountain Conservation Estate
- Ridiculously huge rock
- Climb nearby outcrops and ridge lines
Spring Mountain Conservation Estate boasts over 2,500 hectares of bushland, including the spectacular rocky outcrops of White Rock and Spring Mountain.
The White Rock Multi-User Trail is graded as a moderate level track, with a distance of 6.5kms return. The majority of the walk is relatively easy, however there are steps and some rather steep sections as you near the top.
Seeking more of a challenge? From the base of White Rock, continue along the White Rock Main Ridge Trail. This provides stunning views atop rocky outcrops – there’s even a section that requires climbing up and in-between boulders (this trail connects back to the White Rock Multi-User Trail).
The entry to the Estate is the Paperbark Flats Picnic Area, at the end of School Road in Redbank Plains.
Amenities include toilets, picnic facilities and horse float parking.
Please note that Traditional Owners have requested people refrain from climbing White Rock. The sheer size of this rock is impressive – its interesting contours and colours can easily be appreciated from the base.
5. Mount Ngungun, Glass House Mountains
- Conquer a mountain
- See Dayman’s Cave
- Walk along the summit’s ridgeline
- Impressive views
The 2.8km Mount Ngungun Summit Trail is listed as a grade 4 track with several steep sections and exposed cliff edges. Despite this rating, it is widely considered to be one of the easier Glass House Mountain hikes. The path is clearly defined, well maintained and accessible without climbing gear.
The track begins with intermittent sections of stone steps. As the track ascends, these are replaced by a steeper gradient of uneven rocks (resembling more of a “rock scramble”).
Upon reaching the summit, expect breath-taking 360-degree views. Seeking more of a challenge? Continue along the ridgeline of the summit to rest on the highest boulders. Learn more.
6. Natural Bridge, Springbrook National Park
- Get up close and personal with a stunning waterfall
- Enter a cave with a viewing platform
The Natural Bridge Circuit is a relatively easy walk, guiding visitors into an arched cave to view a waterfall plunging from above.
The track is approximately 1km return, consisting of sealed paths, rocky steps and wooden bridges.
The waterfall can be viewed from several further sections of the track and both children excitedly continued.
The carpark for this section is situated along Bakers Road (off Nerang–Murwillumbah Road), Natural Bridge. Onsite, there are also toilets and a sheltered picnic table and chairs.
7. Cougal Cascades, Mt Cougal section of Springbrook National Park
- Access waterfalls
- Swim in rock pools
- Navigate boulders
- See historic woodmill
A bitumen walking path (suitable for prams and wheelchairs) leads through the rainforest, alongside a series of rock pools and small waterfalls. Designated platforms allow visitors to stop and admire the view.
Accessing the creek requires off-path trekking and caution is advised. The most popular swimming spot is located below the first viewing platform.
The track itself is 1.6kms return, looping around the remains of a 1945 sawmill. From this point, families with younger children can follow a dirt track to reach a shallow and much quieter section of the creek.
Park facilities include a picnic table, toilets and small car park.
8. Best of All Lookout, Springbrook
- Misty, foggy trail (high elevation)
- Cold and crisp atmosphere
- Amazing views
Families can enjoy a very brief but exhilarating walk through the crisp cool rainforest – only 700m return!
The pram and wheelchair accessible path winds through very dark, misty forest. The almost magical setting features Antarctic Beech trees and a multitude of large, dark and smooth boulders.
On a clear day, the lookout provides views of New South Wales, all the way to Byron Bay.
Car parking is provided but there are no amenities at this location.