THE GREAT OUTDOORS

If social distancing and isolation have taught us anything, it’s the appreciation for the great outdoors and the vast array of outdoor activities we have here on the Gold Coast.

With the coronavirus pandemic sweeping through the state, many of our national parks were closed for bush walks. Thankfully, with the Queensland restrictions easing, we can lace up our boots and hit the track.

Ocean View Walk

BURLEIGH HEADLAND NATIONAL PARK

A calming contrast to the craziness of Burleigh and the GC highway, this option will smack you in the face with its beauty. If you’re lucky, you can perch up and watch whales breach, leaving you feeling worlds away. Good for either a leisurely Saturday morning stroll or a blood-pumping trot. 

Distance: 1 kilometre
Time: 30 minutes
Grade: Easy

Rainforest Circuit

BURLEIGH HEADLAND NATIONAL PARK

Take the less crowded route and get lost in the spiral of the headland. With a round circuit, it’s a quick little getaway for those with more time constraints. 

Distance: 2. kilometres
Time: 1 hour
Grade: Easy

O’Reilly’s Rainforest Walk

LAMINGTON NATIONAL PARK 

Roughly an hour’s drive away from the glitter of the Gold Coast is where you’ll find yourself on a windy road incline with views that’ll take your breath away. With a drive equally as entertaining as the various walks, it’s the perfect remedy for a day off the grid. Do one better, take the kids and explore the treetop walk for some family fun. 

Distance: Varies from 5 to 10 kilometres
Time: 2 hours
Grade: Easy to moderate

Natural Bridge Circuit

SPRINGBROOK NATIONAL PARK

Combining the tranquillity of rainforest streams and canopies? Yes, please! For a little day activity, take an easy stroll with your mates and awe at the beauty of the naturally formed bridge, while the birds sing to you like you’re Snow White.  If you’re looking for something extra cool, head here after dark to take in the glow-worms. 

Distance: 1 kilometre 
Time: 1 hour
Grade: Easy

Warrie Circuit

SPRINGBROOK NATIONAL PARK

Starting at a cliff base before descending into a rainforest, you’ll be exposed to stunning canopies, flowing streams, creeks and gullies. Take your time to appreciate the beauty of the canyon and its cliff of cascading waterfalls. Take adequate supplies (AKA food) as you’re in for a solid day of walking. 

Distance: 17 kilometres 
Time: 6 to 7 hours
Grade: Hard

Cougal Cascades

CURRUMBIN VALLEY 

If you’re not feeling a mission drive to reach the hinterland, this is your perfect option. Located roughly 30 minutes drive into the Currumbin Valley, the treetops will have your neck sore from constant craning. Perfect for an easy family walk or romantic stroll, you clamber down to the rock pools and cool off in the fresh water streams. 

Distance: 1.5 kilometres  
Time: 30 to 40 minutes
Grade: Easy

Toolona Creek Circuit 

LAMINGTON NATIONAL PARK

This walk will see your day jam-packed with beauty and countless waterfalls and cascades. With a day lost (metaphorically speaking) in the wilderness, make sure you’re sorted with food, adequate hiking shoes and lots of water. You don’t want to be underprepared for this one. Rained recently? Beware of leeches!  

Distance: 17 kilometres 
Time: 5 to 6 hours
Grade: Hard

Cedar Creek Falls (Remains Closed)

TAMBORINE NATIONAL PARK

Essentially, you’re walking this track to take in the tranquil cascades of Cedar Creek. With an easy one-kilometre stroll to the creek, you’ll have worked up enough of a sweat to take a dip in the three waterfalls and fresh creek water. 

Distance: 1 kilometre
Time: 30 minutes
Grade: Easy

Witches Falls Circuit

TAMBORINE NATIONAL PARK

Unbeknownst to most of us, Mt Tamborine offers more than just awesome wineries. If you’re looking for a day on the mountain minus the booze, we suggest this easy, but not-too-easy trek. Descending into the valley and admiring nature at its finest has never been easier, especially when you know Witches Falls Winery is back at the top of the hill. Hello, motivation. 

Distance: 3 kilometres
Time: 1.5 hours
Grade: Moderate