For your safety and to protect the local wildlife, including glow-worms and platypuses, access to the Curtis Falls rock pool and surrounding area is strictly prohibited at all times. Penalties apply for non-compliance. Please respect the restricted access signs and stay outside the designated areas.
The Curtis Falls track, located in the Joalah Section of Tamborine National Park, offers a delightful short walk through a variety of ecosystems. This 1.1-kilometre return trail takes about 30 to 45 minutes to complete and is rated as a Grade 3 walk, meaning it’s suitable for most visitors but may require a moderate level of fitness due to the slightly uneven terrain.
The walk begins in a wet eucalypt forest dominated by towering flooded gums, where the air feels noticeably cooler as you move deeper into the rainforest. The transition from open forest to lush rainforest is marked by the appearance of stunning crows nest and staghorn ferns high in the canopy. These ferns, along with other native plants, thrive in the moist environment, making it a beautiful and immersive experience as you follow the path. Along the way, you’ll also encounter impressive strangler figs, which add to the park’s unique charm.
As you approach the falls, the track reveals its most captivating feature. Depending on the season, the sight of Curtis Falls can range from a powerful cascade tumbling over the volcanic basalt columns to a gentler flow into the rock pool below. The columns are a reminder of the region’s volcanic history, which dates back millions of years, and they add to the raw beauty of the site.
The rock pool is teeming with life, and it’s common to spot basking turtles on fallen logs, while the clear water teems with fish and eels. In the quiet of the evening, the surrounding cliffs are home to glow-worms, providing an enchanting experience for visitors after dark. However, access to the rock pool and the surrounding area is restricted to protect the fragile ecosystem, including the glow-worms and the nearby platypus population.
The Curtis Falls track offers a perfect opportunity to explore a diverse range of plant and animal life within Tamborine National Park. It’s a relatively short but rewarding hike, and the stunning views of the falls, combined with the lush surroundings, make it a must-do for anyone visiting the area.
Total distance: 1074 m
Max elevation: 526 m
Min elevation: 504 m
Total climbing: 39 m
Total descent: -39 m
Main image: Tourism and Events Queensland
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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 for the Curtis Falls track, head to the Joalah Section of Tamborine National Park, located at the headwaters of Cedar Creek. You can access the trail from either Eagle Heights Road or the Dapsang Drive car park. The car park offers ample space for larger vehicles and includes a toilet block for convenience. While there are no picnic facilities at this site, the location is a great starting point for your walk, with the trailhead easily accessible from the car park.
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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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.
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
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