Discover 12 of the Best Gold Coast Hikes & Bushwalks

From short nature walks beside beautiful creeks to challenging hikes through the wilderness of the Hinterland, there’s a diverse range of walking trails on the Gold Coast. A bush walk is one of the best ways to enjoy the natural beauty of our rainforests, World-Heritage-listed National Parks and nature reserves. No matter your fitness level, you’ll find a scenic Gold Coast hike to enjoy.  

Easy Trails

Take a leisurely stroll through nature on a short bush walk. Some of these nature walks are accessible for people with mobility issues and can accommodate prams and wheelchairs. They’re also the best kid-friendly trails on the Gold Coast and the perfect outdoor activity for families.

1. Beree-Badalla Boardwalk

Park near the boat ramp at Thrower Drive in Currumbin to access this unique nature walk. The Beree-Badalla boardwalk takes you over the mangroves through the estuarine environment of Currumbin Creek. It’s less than a kilometre one way, but if you fancy a slightly longer stroll continue on under the bridge to Tarrabora Reserve. This pretty pocket of bushland borders the sandy shores of the creek and takes you around to the Pirate Park, Palm Beach Parklands and Dune Cafe. Dogs are allowed on the boardwalk and at Palm Beach Parklands, but not in Tarraborra. For a dog-friendly route, head left at the end of the boardwalk along the service road to the intersection of Thrower Dr and Gold Coast Highway to access the parklands and off leash dog beach.  (NB: Beree-Badalla Boardwalk is closed for upgrades until mid-2025).

Distance: The Beree-Badalla Boardwalk is a Grade 1 track and 640m one way.

2. The Cascade Track

Drive all the way to the end of Currumbin Creek Rd to access Springbrook National Park and the Cougal Cascades. The paved path of the Cascade Track takes you from the car park through lush subtropical rainforest and towering trees to a stunning freshwater swimming hole and waterfall. Bring your bathers and rock hop down to the creek for a refreshing dip in this natural wonderland.

Distance: The Cascade track is a Grade 2 track  and 1.6km return. 

3. Natural Bridge Circuit

This is one of the most impressive short walks on the Gold Coast, which leads you to the beautiful Natural Bridge where water gushes through the roof of a basalt cave to create a magical natural grotto. Follow the sealed 1km circuit in a clockwise direction and on the way admire ancient hoop pines and conifers - living relics of the Jurassic Age. By night, the cave is illuminated by twinkling lights of a glow worm colony (best viewed December to March). You’ll need torches to undertake this walk in the dark, but to minimise your impact on the sensitive insects, don’t smoke or use insect repellent, or shine your torches on or near them. 

Distance: The Natural Bridge Circuit is Grade 2 and 1km return. Allow one hour.

4. Coombabah Lakelands Conservation Area

This estuarine corridor connecting Lake Coombabah to the Broadwater covers more than 1200 hectares of wetland, mangrove habitat and eucalypt forest. Numerous flat, level walking tracks weave through the peaceful surroundings of the Coombabah Lakelands Conervation Area so you can choose how far you want to wander. The reserve is home to an abundance of Australian wildlife including water birds, kangaroos and koalas. Don’t miss the boardwalk section over the mangroves which you can access via Shelter Road. All other tracks are accessed from Rain Tree Glen or Myola Court. (NB: There are no toilets or facilities here - BYO drinking water and take all rubbish with you to keep this nature reserve pristine.)

Distance: Choose your route from the numerous walking trails. The flat, level terrain is Grade 2.

5. The Oceanview Walk & Rainforest Circuit

This little pocket of wilderness in the heart of central Gold Coast offers beautiful bush walks weaving through rainforest with incredible coastal views. There are two walks to choose from. The Oceanview Walk is 1.2km one way and leads you around the rocky headlands from Burleigh and along the banks of Tallebudgera Creek. You can return via the same route or take the 2.3km Rainforest Circuit, which is slightly more challenging with some steep inclines, but it’s worth the effort. At the top of the headland you’re treated to a stunning vista from Tumgum Lookout. During whale season (June - October)  you can often spot humpbacks out to sea. On the track you might see local birdlife, bush turkeys, lizards, and if you’re lucky, a koala in the wild. To discover the fascinating Indigenous history and stories about this spot, visit the Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre on the Gold Coast highway, to the right of the bridge at the far end of the Oceanview Track.

Distance: The Oceanview Walk is a Grade 2 track and 1.2km one way. The Rainforest Circuit is a Grade 3 track and 2.3km return. 

Intermediate Trails

Tackling these Gold Coast hiking trails will get your heart rate up and give you a good workout, but the best bit is spending time immersed in the sounds and sights of nature, which will boost your mood and benefit your mind, body and soul.

6. Purling Brook Falls Circuit

Purling Brook Falls Circuit in Springbrook National Park is one of the most popular Gold Coast Hinterland hikes for good reason. The vista from the top of the falls across Springbrook National Park is magical, but once you’ve descended into the gorge and are standing at the base of the falls looking up, it’s a jaw-dropping spectacle, especially after heavy rainfall. You can feel the power and energy of the natural elements as the huge volume of water cascades from hundreds of metres above, misting you in a refreshing spray. 

There are lots of stairs on this journey and it’s easier to walk it in a clockwise direction.  If you’re feeling adventurous (or very hot) take a 2km detour from the base of the falls for a dip in Warringa Pool.

Distance: Purling Brook Falls is a 4km, Grade 3 track. After significant rainfall, parts of the Purling Brook walking track may be closed for public safety.  

7. Lower Bellbird Track

Located in the Binna Burra section of Lamington National Park this track takes you deep into the rainforest on a diverse adventure past lush palms, hoop pines and strangler figs, massive boulders and sheer cliff walls. The Lower Bellbird Track splinters off the Ships Stern Circuit, which begins opposite the road entrance to Binna Burra Lodge. It is well signed at trail junctions - take a short detour to visit the Yangalah Lookout for breathtaking panoramic views encompassing Ships Stern, Turtle Rock, 'Kurraragin' (Egg Rock), and down into Numinbah Valley.

Distance: The Lower Bellbird Track is 10km return and a Grade 4 track. 

8. Twin Falls

One of the best waterfall walks and short hikes on the Gold Coast is Twin Falls Circuit in Springbrook National Park. Start at the Tallanbana picnic area or at the Canyon lookout. This 4km circuit is superbly scenic, peppered with tropical rainforest, abundant flora and dreamy vistas, plus you’ll pass behind two waterfalls, which is a unique experience. Enjoy the soothing soundtrack of running water and native birds in the forest canopy as you hike.

Distance: The Twin Falls Circuit is a 4km, Grade 3 track that takes around 2 hours.
 

9. Currumbin Border Trail

Don’t confuse this hike with the Border Track in Lamington National Park - a longer and more challenging hike in a different location.  The Border Trail begins in Currumbin and while it’s not far from civilisation, it provides a pleasant change of scenery. The dirt trail starts at the end of Border Drive North, but as you set out, suburbia gives way to untamed terrain in a matter of minutes. This hilly hiking trail runs directly along the fenceline that marks the border between New South Wales and Queensland - follow the fence and you can’t get lost. There are some small steep, rocky sections with rough footing. 

Traverse the trail through tall trees along a ridgeline with views out over the beaches beyond. The trail continues up the mountains of Currumbin Valley where you can arrange to be picked up on Tomewin Mountain Road or Piggabeen Road. (Freeman’s Organic Farm is a convenient meeting spot.) But if you’ve still got a spring in your step, retrace the route on your return journey. 

Distance: Currumbin Border Trail is a 16km return, Grade 4 track.

Advanced Trails

These trails are for experienced hikers with high levels of fitness. Most of them are accessed from Binna Burra Lodge and O’Reilly’s Mountain Retreat - both which border national parks. Make the most of your Gold Coast hiking experience and combine it with a stay at one of these Hinterland eco-resorts, where you can rest and recover in comfort after a day’s hiking. Both provide a range of accommodation from camping and safari tents to luxury villas, dining options and eco experiences.

10. Toolona Creek Circuit

For spectacular scenery, jaw dropping views and plenty of waterfalls, Toolona Creek Circuit is the perfect half-day walk. It starts at the Green Mountain Trailhead and walking this circuit in a clockwise direction is recommended. Journey up through Toolona Gorge - a protected refuge for where flowering rainforest plants and ferns thrive. The cooling spray from many waterfalls you pass on the way will be very welcome on hot days. Once you get to Wanungara Lookout, take a breather and marvel at the incredible views down the valley to Wollumbin (Mount Warning) and out to the ocean. Allow 6 -7 hours for this scenic Gold Coast hike.

Distance: Toolona Creek Circuit is a 17.4km, Grade 4 track.

11. The Warrie Circuit

“Warrie” is the local Indigenous word for rushing water and a fitting name for this trail, where the noise of waterfalls creates a soothing soundtrack for much of the trek. The Warrie Circuit starts at the Canyon Lookout in Springbrook National Park. Start out early to catch the best misty valley vistas.There are sheer cliffs and natural creek crossings and at one point, you’ll have to tip-toe across a concrete bridge over a waterway. But the rewards are worth it – this isn’t regarded as one of south-east Queensland’s best day walks for nothing. The subtropical scenery is stunning and around every corner another waterfall awaits. Since most visitors stick to the shorter walks, you’ll mostly have it all to yourself. Bring your swimmers because there are picturesque swimming spots along the way and you’ll certainly work up a sweat.

Distance: The Warrie Circuit is 14km and a Grade 4 track. Allow 5 - 6 hours. 

12. Stinson Walk

Recount Australian history and retrace the route Bernard O’Reilly took through the wilderness to save the lives of two plane crash survivors over 86 years ago. This guided hike is run by O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat a number of times each year and the experience includes two night’s accommodation, the night before and the night after.  

You’ll need to be an experienced hiker with high fitness levels to take on this challenge. It’s a 37 kilometre, 12-hour bash through thick rainforest of trek through the stunning landscape of World Heritage-listed Lamington National Park, climbing 1040m, and descending 1590m. After you make it to the crash site (there’s still wreckage and graves to commemorate the five people who perished in the crash), you’ll enjoy some welcome celebratory drinks and snacks on completion, and more importantly, a transfer to O’Reilly’s so you don’t have to walk 12 hours back. This experience is very popular and numbers are limited so enquire well in advance if you’re keen. If you missed the latest hike, you can register your interest for the next one.

Distance: The Stinson walk is a 35km, Grade 5 track and should only be done on a guided hike.

Safety Tips For Hiking on the Gold Coast

- Hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, correct walking shoes and water are a must. If you are not an experienced walker, start by picking an area that is flat and provides shade in the warmer weather. 

- Mobile reception is not reliable in some areas of the Hinterland National Parks so don’t count on being able to use your phone in an emergency. Download or print out a map of your route. If you’re planning on one of the longer or more challenging hikes, taking a Personal Locator Beacon is a good idea.

- Stick to the track and take care near cliff edges, steep drops and wet, slippery terrain.

- Begin your hike with plenty of time to return before nightfall. Hike in small groups as a precaution.

- Always check the forecast - the weather can turn fast. The temperature is often a lot cooler in the Hinterland so pack accordingly.

-  Let your friends or family know your planned route and return time, or inform your place of accommodation before you set off.

- Never dive or jump into creeks and waterholes. And beware that creek and river crossing can be hazardous after heavy rainfall.

- Check the difficulty and distance of a route before you attempt it. You can find information grading classifications here. Grade 1 is the easiest, Grade 5 is the most challenging.

If you're a nature lover, check out more of the Gold Coast's natural wonders, waves and wilderness.