What to do in Springbrook National Park: lookouts, hikes and itinerary ideas

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I keep coming back to Springbrook National Park because it has so much to offer. It’s one of my favourite day trips from Brisbane, and I also love spending the night there to enjoy the quieter side of the park and some surprising after-dark attractions.

Hike to see the waterfalls (the best thing to do)

The main reason I visit Springbrook is for the waterfalls. They’re some of the most stunning in South East Queensland, and what makes them special is the variety of perspectives you can get. At Goomoolahra Falls and Purling Brook Falls, for example, you can see them from the top at a lookout, from a distance, and even at the base. A few of the trails even let you walk behind the falls, which feels magical on a hot day.

The rainforest setting makes the hikes even more enjoyable. You’ll walk through lush forest, hear birdsong, and cross little creeks along the way. You’ll find short and easy hikes, and longer ones that are more difficult and with a lot of elevation, so you can choose what fits your fitness and the time you have.

Take in the lookouts

Even if you don’t have the energy for long hikes, you can still enjoy the scenery. Springbrook has plenty of easy-access lookouts that only require a short stroll from the car park. My favourites are:

• Best of All Lookout – with sweeping views all the way to Mt Warning and even the coastline on a clear day.
• Canyon Lookout – a perfect quick stop that also gives you a glimpse of waterfalls in the distance.
• Purling Brook Falls Lookouts – for that impressive drop into the valley.
• Goomoolahra Falls Lookout – easy to reach and great if you want waterfall views from close without much walking.

These are perfect to combine with a hike or to stop at on your way in or out of the park.

Visit Natural Bridge at night

If you stay the night, don’t miss Natural Bridge. By day, it’s a short, beautiful walk down to a cave where a waterfall plunges through the roof. By night, it transforms into something even more special – it’s one of the best places in the region to spot glow worms. The cave walls light up with tiny blue-green dots, making it feel like you’re under a starry sky.

Other things to do in Springbrook

If you’ve already ticked off the waterfalls and glow worms, here are a few more ideas:

• Spot wildlife – I’ve seen pademelons (small wallabies), plenty of birdlife, and even a carpet python on the trail.
• Stargazing – with little light pollution, the night skies are stunning.
• Stay overnight – there are a few cosy cottages, B&Bs, and camping areas that make it worth extending your visit beyond a day trip.

Looking to stay at night in Springbrook National Park? I haven’t tried it yet as, but I love the concept of the Lyrebird Retreat. It’s a non-profit accommodation that redirects all its profit to rainforest restoration.

How to plan your trip to Springbrook

Here are some tips I’ve picked up from multiple visits:

• Getting there: If you don’t have a vehicle or prefer not to drive up the winding mountain roads, you can book a tour from Brisbane or the Gold Coast.
• Timing: Leave early so you have time for a couple of hikes and some lookouts without rushing.
• Pace: Allow extra time for stops. Some of my hikes have taken longer than expected because we kept pausing at viewpoints.
• Food: There are a few cafés, but I often bring a picnic to enjoy lunch in nature. Just remember to always take your rubbish with you. Also bring plenty of water; you may drink more than usual with the humidity and the gradient!
• Fuel: There’s no petrol station in Springbrook, so fill up before heading up
• Check conditions: Always look at the official Queensland National Parks website before you go. Trails are sometimes closed due to rain, landslides, or maintenance, and it’s the best place to confirm which ones are safe and open.
• Weather: Always check the forecast before heading up. It can be sunny on the coast but rainy in the mountains, and conditions can change quickly during the day. And pack a jacket: it’s cooler than on the Gold Coast up there!

Suggested itineraries for Springbrook

1 day in Springbrook National Park

If you’re visiting just for the day, here’s how to make the most of it:

Morning – Arrive early and warm up with the Natural Bridge Cave walk. It’s short, gets busy later in the day, and is a beautiful introduction to the park. Then tackle one of the main waterfall hikes. The Twin Falls Circuit is a favourite of mine – short and scenic, with the chance to walk behind waterfalls, admire dramatic rock formations, and soak up rainforest views.

Lunch – Pack a picnic to enjoy at a lookout or by the creek, or stop at one of the local cafés in Springbrook village.

Afternoon – If you’ve got the energy, do the Purling Brook Falls Circuit, where a dramatic 109-metre drop steals the show. If you’re done walking, the Purling Brook Falls Lookouts are easy to reach (only ~150 meters and 300 meters), while Goomoolahra Falls Lookout is one of my personal favourites on an accessible paved path. Don’t miss Best of All Lookout, a short walk that rewards you with sweeping views all the way to Wollumbin (Mount Warning). As you leave the park, drive slowly and keep an eye out for pademelons along the roadside.

2 days in Springbrook National Park

With an overnight stay, you can slow down and explore more.

Day 1

• If you’re an experienced walker, take on the Warrie Circuit, a full-day rainforest loop with waterfalls and far fewer crowds.
• If you’d prefer something shorter, stick with the Twin Falls Circuit or the Purling Brook Falls Circuit.
• Afterwards, stop at Goomoolahra Falls Lookout before checking into your accommodation.
• In the evening, head to Natural Bridge to see the glow worms sparkling inside the cave.

Day 2

• If you did Warrie Circuit on day one, today’s the time for Twin Falls and Purling Brook Falls Circuit (or just one if you’ve done the other the day before).
• Stop for lunch at a café or enjoy a picnic before heading back.
• If you want a different perspective, revisit Natural Bridge in daylight.
• Before you leave, make sure to walk to Best of All Lookout. It’s one of the most spectacular views in the park and a perfect farewell to your trip.

Where is Springbrook National Park?

Springbrook National Park is in the Gold Coast Hinterland, about a 1.5-hour drive south of Brisbane or 45 minutes from the Gold Coast. The park sits high on the plateau of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, which explains the cooler climate and lush rainforest. The drive up is part of the adventure, with winding roads and beautiful views.