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.
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.
Total distance: 2291 m
Max elevation: 78 m
Min elevation: 11 m
Total climbing: 161 m
Total descent: -161 m
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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.
If you have any photos from this hike and are happy to share them, please upload your .jpg files here.
Please note: Uploading photos does not transfer ownership of copyright away from you. If requested, you will be credited for any photos you provide and can ask they be deleted at any time.
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 vistas.
Please note: Camping is not permitted within the park.
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While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
Trail changed? New features discovered? Has the route changed? Trail permanently closed? Help fellow hikers by suggesting edits! Click above to update route descriptions, GPX file, trail features (like boardwalks), or access conditions (like parking availability). Help me keep the trails info fresh!
