Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Experience the spectacular Burleigh Head Rainforest Circuit, a 2.3km moderate Grade 3 trail that promises an adventurous hike and stunning views from Tumgun Lookout. Marvel at the humpback whales breaching offshore during winter and spring, and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views stretching towards Snapper Rocks. Start your journey from either the northern or southern entrance, just remember to be cautious during wet weather due to potential rockfalls. Facilities including picnic areas and toilets are conveniently located near both entrances. Combine this trail with the Oceanview Walk for a more diverse scenery.

Length:

2.3km

Duration:

1 hr

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 78m

Min elevation: 11m

Total Ascent: 161m

Start: Goodwin Terrace Carpark

End: Goodwin Terrace Carpark

Burleigh Head National Park

Queensland

Nearby town: Burleigh Heads

From state capital: 95.4km

Latitude: -28.090002135963335

Longitude: 153.45767231568817

Overview

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Hike overview

The Burleigh Head Rainforest Circuit offers a scenic adventure with a moderate challenge. Most of the trail is easygoing, but a steeper section awaits you near Tumgun Lookout. This lookout is your chance to spot humpback whales breaching offshore during winter and spring – a spectacular reward for your climb.

Be aware that some sections of the track, particularly those skirting the coastline, may close during wet weather due to potential rockfalls. The Rainforest Circuit takes you up a series of steps to the impressive 88-meter summit at Tumgun Lookout. Here, you'll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views stretching towards Snapper Rocks.

Finding Your Trailhead:

Northern Entrance: Begin on the Burleigh Link Track, offering views from Jebbribillum Lookout. After 460 meters, it joins the Rainforest Circuit. Choose a clockwise or anticlockwise direction, ensuring you visit Tumgun Lookout.

Southern Entrance: Start by following the Oceanview Track for 250 meters before turning left onto the Tallebudgera Link Track for another 250 meters, where it meets the Rainforest Circuit. Similar to the northern entrance, choose your direction and be sure to include Tumgun Lookout in your exploration.

A council picnic area and toilets are located near the northern entrance to the park along Goodwin Terrace. Toilets are also located near the southern entrance in the car park—these are managed by the Gold Coast City Council.

You can also combine a section of this walk with the Oceanview walk for a variety of scenery.

Track grade

Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.

Walk map and GPX file
Burleigh Head Rainforest Circuit Walk (2.3km)

Total distance: 2291 m
Max elevation: 78 m
Min elevation: 11 m
Total climbing: 161 m
Total descent: -161 m

Gallery

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Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Burleigh Head National Park.

Burleigh Head National Park offers two convenient entry points:

Northern Entrance: If you’re coming from Burleigh Heads, head south on the Gold Coast Highway. Take a left turn onto Goodwin Terrace and follow it until the end. You’ll find the car park on your left.

Southern Entrance: Traveling south on the Gold Coast Highway from Burleigh Heads, look for the car park just before the Tallebudgera Creek bridge on your left. This is your southern entry point.

Consider arriving early, especially on weekends and holidays, as parking can fill up quickly.

Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.

Get there with Google Maps

About the region

Standing tall as a prominent landmark, Burleigh Head National Park packs a surprising punch despite its modest 27 hectares. This jewel of the Gold Coast offers a vibrant tapestry of ecosystems, from lush rainforests teeming with life to windswept coastal heathlands. Explore its diverse landscapes, from towering eucalypt forests and pandanus groves to rocky foreshores and pristine beaches.

Wildlife enthusiasts will be delighted. Keep your eyes peeled for humpback whales breaching offshore during winter and spring. Soar with the majestic white-bellied sea eagles as they ride the thermals, or witness the vibrant birdwing butterflies flitting through the rainforest canopy in mid-summer.

Burleigh Head National Park is perfect for a day trip. Easily accessible via the Gold Coast Highway, the park offers an information center to help plan your exploration. Lace up your shoes and conquer the Rainforest Circuit, leading you to the park's 88-meter summit, or take the scenic Oceanview Circuit for breathtaking coastal views.

Please note: Camping is not permitted within the park.

Find a place to stay

Find Accommodation

Wondering where to stay near this hike? Find accommodation close to the trailhead — hotels, cabins and campgrounds nearby. Click the button to view the interactive map.

Closest towns to this walk: Burleigh Heads, Burleigh Waters, Currumbin, Miami, Tallebudgera, Tweed Heads

Let someone know

Heading out? Fill in a trip intentions form so someone knows your plans. If things go wrong, they can raise the alarm fast, giving you peace of mind on the trail.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Burleigh Head National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.

Packing checklists

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.

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Burleigh Head Rainforest Circuit Walk (2.3km)

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Acknowledgement of Country

Burleigh head rainforest circuit walk (2. 3km)

Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Track grade

Walk map and GPX file
Burleigh Head Rainforest Circuit Walk (2.3km)