Pining to side-step the glitz of the Glitter Strip and reacquaint yourself with nature?
Well, you’re in luck. There’s a vast network of gob-smackingly gorgeous hiking trails around the Goldie to explore.
From quick waterfall-strewn stints to extended rainforest forays, we’ve rounded down the top hikes near the Gold Coast.
Witches Falls Walking Track
Distance: 3.1 km
Go chasing waterfalls at this lushly forested Mount Tamborine track. The somewhat strenuous circuit delves deep into subtropical rainforest towards the gushing Witches Falls, which you can gawk at from an elevated wooden platform.
Now you’ve worked up an appetite, pop into Witches Falls Winery on the way back to tuck into one of their epic charcuterie boards. You’ve earned it.
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Curtis Falls and Lower Creek Walking Track
Distance: 1.5km
Why not add this roaring beauty to your Tamborine Mountain waterfall-watching adventure?
Located a quick drive from Witches Falls, this easy circuit leads you to yet another thumping watery wonder. The Curtis Falls are at their gushing best after heavy rains, so keep a close eye on the BOM app. Â
While swimming isn’t permitted to protect native glow worms, you can sneak in a cheeky dip at Lower Creek.
Not yet ready to call it quits? Chuck the swimmable Cedar Creek Falls into the mix.
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Coomera Circuit Walk
Distance: 16.6 km
Hike right down to the NSW border on this epic full-day adventure. As the pièce de résistance of Lamington National Park, this much-loved bushwalk sees a steady stream of foot traffic on weekends. If getting away from it all is your raison d’etre, aim for an early start or rock up mid-week.
The Coomera Falls lookout is the highlight, though you’ll pass several smaller cascades en route. Â
Loved this lengthy muddy outing? Try Lamington’s Toolona Creek Circuit for more rainforest thrills.
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Warrie Circuit Walk
Distance: 12.4km
This splendid Springbrook trail is a solid slog but well worth it for the stunning rainforest views. Starting off on a rocky cliff top, the route descends through a rugged ravine and delves into the dense Gondwana rainforest.
Crystal clear creeks and cascades offer a tempting spot to cool off—watch out for leeches after the rains.
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Purlingbrook Falls
Distance: 4km
If the Warrie walk looks a bit long, this easy hike gives you a taste of Springbrook in a short, one-hour stroll. Or, if you’re a bit of a bushwalking machine, there’s no harm combining both into one action-packed afternoon.
As the name suggests, this trek’s major drawcard is the Purlingbrook Falls. Towering over the canopy, these 100-metre horsetail-style cascades will give your face a lashing of wayward spray.
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Ocean View Track
Distance: 1km
You don’t even need to leave Burleigh to sample the region’s natural splendour. Located in the tiny Burleigh Heads National Park, this spectacular circuit is a favourite among active wear-clad exercisers.
While it’s short, the views are super scenic, and you might spot whales breaching offshore. Not enough to get the heart rate up? Do as the Gold Coastians do and try running a few laps.
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Eat and Drink Like a King After Your Gold Coast Hiking Trail
Now you’ve worked up an appetite, it’s time to savour the best gourmet flavours the Goldie has to offer.
On our Eat & Drink the Gold Coast tour, we’ll whisk you between the finest culinary venues in the city. Door-to-door transfers, tasty tipples, and newfound chums come part of the deal.
