For your safety, please follow the restricted access signs posted on-site and stay within the designated walking track. Access to the area directly above the waterfall and certain sections of the gorge, including some rock pools, is prohibited. Please be aware that penalties may apply for non-compliance. Your cooperation helps protect the natural environment and ensures a safe visit for all.
The Cedar Creek Falls Lookout offers an easy and accessible way to enjoy one of Mount Tamborine's most beautiful natural features. Located in the Cedar Creek section of Tamborine National Park, this 500-metre return walk is perfect for those looking for a quick and rewarding experience. The track is flat, paved, and suitable for strollers and wheelchairs with assistance, making it a great option for visitors of all abilities. The walk usually takes about 15 minutes, allowing you to soak in the surroundings without much effort.
The lookout provides stunning views of Cedar Creek Falls, the surrounding gorge, and the serene rock pools below. As you reach the end of the track, you’ll be treated to sweeping views that capture the beauty of the falls and the rugged landscape. This popular spot is a favourite for both locals and tourists, offering a peaceful break from the hustle and bustle.
Situated at the base of Mount Tamborine, near Thunderbird Park, the area also includes a picnic area where you can relax by the creek. With tables and barbecues available, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a meal outdoors while taking in the natural beauty around you. Whether you’re here for the short walk or planning to extend your visit with a picnic, the Cedar Creek Falls Lookout is a must-see destination for anyone exploring Tamborine National Park.
Total distance: 440 m
Max elevation: 236 m
Min elevation: 230 m
Total climbing: 7 m
Total descent: -6 m
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Closest towns to this walk: Canungra, Clagiraba, Eagle Heights, Guanaba, Mount Nathan, Mount Tamborine, North Tamborine, Oxenford, Tamborine, Tamborine Mountain, Tamborine Village, Wongawallan, Wonglepong
Getting to the trailhead in Tamborine National Park.
To reach the trailhead, take Cedar Creek Falls Road, which provides access to this section of Tamborine National Park. Just before the track begins, you’ll find two spacious picnic areas nestled among tall eucalypt trees, offering a great spot to rest before or after your walk. Keep in mind that the carpark at Cedar Creek Falls is quite small, so it’s best to arrive early to secure a good parking space. Larger vehicles such as buses, caravans, and motorhomes cannot access this area. For safety reasons, access to this section is prohibited after dark, with clear signage on-site indicating closure details. The park closure is enforced under the Nature Conservation Act 1992, and penalties may apply for non-compliance. Make sure to check the park’s opening hours for the most up-to-date information.
Just an hour from Brisbane and the Gold Coast, Tamborine National Park sits on Tamborine Mountain at 560 metres above sea level. To the east, glimpses of the Pacific Ocean and the Gold Coast skyline peek through the forest, while to the west, the rugged peaks of the Scenic Rim stretch into the distance. This park is home to towering basalt columns, dramatic cliffs, rocky outcrops, and cascading waterfalls, all remnants of ancient volcanic activity.
Tamborine National Park has a rich history, with Witches Falls becoming Queensland’s first national park in 1908. Over time, additional sections were protected, including Cedar Grove, The Knoll, and Palm Grove. These areas now form a network of diverse landscapes, from dense rainforest filled with piccabeen palms to towering red cedars and cool, shaded gullies. The park’s rich plant life provides a crucial habitat for wildlife, including the rare Albert’s lyrebird and the striking shining burrawang.
Bushwalkers and hikers will find a variety of trails that wind through these landscapes, leading to waterfalls, scenic lookouts, and peaceful picnic spots. Curtis Falls is a highlight, where early morning or late afternoon visitors might catch a glimpse of a platypus moving through the water. The Knoll and Witches Falls are perfect places to stop for a picnic after exploring the surrounding trails. For those who enjoy birdwatching, the park offers the chance to see Albert’s lyrebird, known for its incredible ability to mimic the calls of other birds, particularly during the winter months.
Looking for hikes and trails in Tamborine National Park or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.
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Cape Byron State Conservation Area
Grade 1 (All-abilities) -Â Perfect for Families and Beginners: Grade 1 on the
AWTGS represents the easiest walking tracks, perfect for families with young children or those new to bushwalking. No prior experience is required. These gentle walks feature a flat, even surface with no steps or steep sections. They are suitable for wheelchair users with assistance due to the even terrain. The total distance of a Grade 1 walk is typically no greater than 5 kilometers, making them a comfortable and manageable option for all ages and fitness levels.
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.
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.
Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
