Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk

About this walking route

The Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk traces 54 km through World Heritage rainforest across Lamington and Springbrook national parks, three days of steady elevation and descent through Queensland's most intact subtropical and cool-temperate forest. You'll pass thundering waterfalls, ancient Antarctic beech groves, and camp among ferns and moss-draped trees while glow-worms light the night. The walk sits high above the Gold Coast sprawl, immersing you in Gondwana remnant wilderness that feels far older and quieter than the coast below.

Highlights

• Waterfalls including Purlingbrook, Morans and Chalum Falls
• Ancient Antarctic beech forest and massive tree ferns
• Glow-worms in creek beds after dark
• Sustained ridge walking with valley crossings
• Mountain camps in cool, wet rainforest

What to expect

Moderate terrain with steep sections up and out of gullies; well-formed track through dense rainforest on mud, roots and rock. Expect wet conditions — humidity, frequent creek crossings, muddy pitches after rain. Temperatures cool year-round (8–18°C typical). The walk is a steady rhythm of climb, ridge, descent: rewarding but relentless. Isolation is real; you're deep in forest for three days with limited escape routes.

Good to know

Best April–September (avoid summer wet and leeches; winter frost possible at altitude). Permits and fees apply; book ahead through Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service. One-way walk — arrange car shuttle or use local transport operators. Fitness required: sustained daily distance and elevation gain. Carry water; reliable sources exist but purify or bring treatment. Camp only at designated sites; pack all rubbish and toilet waste.