From soulful hinterland sojourns to spectacular seaside strolls, we’ve compiled a list of the best Gold Coast hikes. So give the gym a miss and build up those glutes on an epic two-footed adventure instead.
Burleigh Headland Circuit
The quintessential Gold Coast trail, this 3km loop winds you through the verdant rainforest-shrouded scenery of Burleigh Headland National Park. The lower trail straddles the coastline for sweeping seaside views, while the upper routes lead you through a forested hilltop home to curious native critters.
Treat yourself to a refreshing swim at Tallebudgera Creek to wash off all the sweat.
Lamington National Park Tree Top Walk
Nestled within Lamington National Park, this breezy elevated boardwalk is perfect for those seeking a quick, easy stroll. Nine suspension bridges soar as high as 30 metres above ground, offering epic views of the canopy and rainforest floor. Departing in the early morning or late afternoon gives you the best chance of spotting vibrant birdlife.
Crave something tougher? A network of more challenging Lamington trails branches out from O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat.
Broadbeach to Mainbeach
Got a penchant for long walks on the beach? Make those dating app clichés a reality with this 12km jaunt along the Gold Coast’s most iconic stretch of sand. On this seemingly endless beachfront stroll, you’ll pass verdant parks, towering skyscrapers, and stacks of cafes for a cheeky mid-hike nibble.
Abundant public transport lets you start and finish this hike wherever you please. Tap out once you tire, or keep marching up to the Spit.
Twin Falls Circuit
Abundant public transport lets you start and finish this hike wherever you please. Tap out once you tire, or keep marching up to the Spit.
As the most popular trail in Springbrook National Park, this double-pronged cascade reels in the crowds during holidays and weekends (go mid-week if you can). A 1.5-hour loop through pristine subtropical rainforests leads you to the two thundering falls, where a refreshing swimming hole awaits.
Fancy chasing more waterfalls? Other Springbrook favs include Rainbow Falls, the Natural Bridge, and Purling Brook Falls.
Fingal Head Lighthouse Walk
You don’t have to be a hardy hiker to give this 1km out-and-back track a crack. The short-and-sweet stroll sees you scale a boardwalk and forested path towards Fingal Head’s famous—yet surprisingly tiny—lighthouse.
At the end of the trail, stop to admire sweeping Pacific Ocean views and the pillared geological oddities of the Fingal Head Causeway. If you’d like to combine the hike with some cultural insights, we offer guided tours of Fingal Head with an indigenous artist on our Dreamtime Art Trail.
Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk
Craving an extended, get-lost-in-the-wilderness-type adventure? As the best multi-day walk near the Gold Coast, this epic three-day trip trudges through Lamington and Springbrook national parks. The moderate-to-hard route entails steep inclines and rugged terrain, but there are stacks of inviting swimming spots to cool off.
Hiker campsites are available enroute. Book them in advance.
Tackle spectacular Gold Coast hikes with Kiff & Culture
Though we’re not a bushwalking company per se, Kiff & Culture does include a slew of lovely Gold Coast hikes on our nature and foodie tours. Devour gourmet gastronomy and slurp tasty tipples before working off the excess carbs on a scenic stroll.
From Tamborine Mountain to the Tweed Valley and Byron Hinterlands, we’ll take you to the best natural wonders in our sun-kissed region.
