Grade 1

Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk (54km)

Gold Coast Hinterland

Queensland

54km

3 days

Grade 4

One Way

Save
Compare

Bookmark

Compare

Favourite

Hike at a glance

3 Reviews

11,208

Find Accommodation

Quick overview: Experience the epic 54km Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk in Queensland, a Grade 4 trail starting at Lamington National Park and ending at Springbrook National Park. This hard trail, best tackled over three days, showcases ancient volcanic terrain, lush rainforests, and stunning waterfalls. Just a short trip from the town of O'Reilly, the trail offers an unrivalled opportunity to explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed rainforests of Lamington and Springbrook, home to a diverse array of Gondwanan flora and fauna.
Gold coast hinterland great walk

Hike length

54km

Average duration

3 days

Trail Difficulty

Grade 4 (Hard)

Hike Type

One Way

Technical details

Max elevation: 1186m
Min elevation: 114m
Total Ascent: 2443m

Start: Lamington National Park
End: Springbrook National Park
Location: Gold Coast Hinterland
State: Queensland
Nearest town: O'Reilly
State capital distance: 113km
Latitude: -28.230287980758973
Longitude: 153.13509648553776

Check current conditions
Track conditions, access and closures can change quickly due to weather, fire, maintenance or safety concerns. Always check the relevant land manager’s website before you visit. Trail Hiking Australia does not provide real-time track and closure monitoring, and land managers remain the authoritative source for current alerts, closures and access restrictions.

Hike details
Difficulty
Planning
Safety
Getting there
The region
Nearby hikes
Weather
Advertisement


Trail details

The Warringa Pool section may be closed during floods or extreme fire danger. Please ensure you check the Park alerts before you set out.

Hike summary

The Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk beckons adventure seekers with a challenging 54-kilometer (grade 4) hike through Queensland's stunning landscapes. This multi-day journey, typically completed in three days, offers a unique opportunity to explore ancient volcanic terrain, lush rainforests teeming with Gondwana relics, and breathtaking waterfalls.

Prepare to be captivated by the diverse ecosystems of the World Heritage-listed Lamington and Springbrook plateaus, connected by the scenic Numinbah Valley. Here, you'll find the world's most extensive subtropical rainforests, alongside warm temperate rainforests and pockets of the rare Antarctic beech cool temperate rainforest.

This amazing walk isn't just about scenic beauty. It's a chance to step back in time and traverse the weathered slopes of the Tweed Volcano, sculpted by rushing streams and cascading waterfalls. Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Gondwanan flora and fauna, remnants of a supercontinent that once existed millions of years ago.

The Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk promises an unforgettable experience. To make the most of this adventure, it's recommended starting your trek westward from Lamington National Park's Green Mountains section (O'Reilly's) and concluding at Springbrook National Park.

Additional Information:

Allow three days to complete the 54km Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk. It is recommended that you walk west to east, commencing the walk from Lamington National Park—Green Mountains section (O’Reilly) and ending at The Settlement camping area in Springbrook National Park.

Overview of each section

Section 1: Green Mountains (O'Reilly) to Binna Burra (21.4km, 7hrs, Grade 4)

  • Start your hike at Lamington National Park's Green Mountains section and embark on the well-known Border Track.
  • Traverse remnants of the ancient Tweed Volcano as you gain elevation. The Border Track winds through diverse rainforests, offering glimpses of Mount Warning, the Nightcap Range, and Lamington's wilderness.
  • Keep your eyes peeled for breathtaking lookouts along the rim of the Tweed Valley erosion caldera.

Section 2: Binna Burra to Woonoongoora Walkers' Camp (23.6km, 6-8hrs, Grade 4)

  • Begin at the Ships Stern track and delve into Kurraragin Valley. Admire towering trees like piccabeen palms, red cedars, and flooded gums.
  • Take the Lower Bellbird circuit, passing a unique dry rainforest and skirting the base of a spectacular rhyolite cliff.
  • Descend steeply for 2.5km before crossing Nixon Creek. Respect the cultural significance of Egg Rock and remain on the designated track.
  • Navigate through selectively-cleared woodland before reaching the Nerang-Murwillumbah Road. This section includes an easement through private property and the Numinbah Correctional Centre – stay on track and observe signage for safety.
  • Follow the Nerang-Murwillumbah Road with caution, using designated crossing points. Consider ending your walk here or proceed to Woonoongoora Walkers' Camp. Remember, no public transport is available from this point, so arrange pick-up beforehand.
  • Prepare for a steep 1.6km climb on Chesters Road, part of Springbrook National Park's horse trails network. Yield to horse riders for their safety.
  • Descend into the Waterfall Creek valley, a stunning amphitheater framed by white rhyolite cliffs. Follow the markers as you meander through previously cleared areas and cross the creek before reaching the walkers' camp.

Section 3: Woonoongoora Walkers' Camp to The Settlement Camping Area (9km, 4-5hrs, Grade 4)

  • Brace yourself for a challenging 1.9km climb with over 900 steps to reach the Springbrook plateau. Ascend through a grove of ancient cycads, a testament to the area's prehistoric past.
  • Upon reaching Apple Tree Park, cross Springbrook Road and follow the Great Walk markers. Be mindful of the potentially wet and slippery section as you descend into the Little Nerang Dam catchment area. Cross the creek with caution.
  • Follow the west branch of Little Nerang Creek, traversing a narrow gorge with waterfalls and pools. Emerge at a scenic basalt slab above Warringa Pool, a perfect spot to soak in the sounds of the rainforest.
  • Continue your journey to Purling Brook Falls, where a towering rhyolite cliff contrasts with the dark basalt gorge. Cross the suspension bridge and enjoy a steady climb back to the plateau. Just before crossing the top of Purling Brook, the track branches left to The Settlement camping area.
Advertisement


Track difficulty

Grade 4 (hard) badge

Grade 4 (Hard)

Steep, rough, and demanding
These are challenging walks suited to experienced hikers. Expect sustained climbs, rough and uneven terrain, and longer distances.

Tracks may be less defined, and signage can be limited, so navigation awareness is important. These walks require good fitness, confidence on difficult terrain, and the ability to manage fatigue over time.

Safety note: Fatigue, poor navigation, or a sudden weather change can turn a hard walk into a serious situation.

Advertisement


Planning essentials

Practical Information:
  • Be aware that some sections of the track may be overgrown with vegetation, and you might encounter fallen trees or rockfalls. Pay close attention to signage at junctions to stay on the trail.
  • Use extra caution when crossing creeks, navigating near cliff edges, and enjoying natural lookouts.
  • The track width can vary, with muddy sections, steep inclines, and steps along the way. Be prepared for uneven terrain and adjust your pace accordingly.

Map and GPX file

Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk (54km)

Total distance: 49013 m
Max elevation: 1186 m
Min elevation: 114 m
Total climbing: 2443 m
Total descent: -2769 m
Login to Download GPX

GPX files, maps and content are copyright Trail Hiking Australia. Not to be copied, redistributed or uploaded to other platforms including AllTrails.

Advertisement


Safety and preparation

Planning this hike?

Small oversights can compound quickly in Australian conditions. See how it happens in the Interactive Safety Scenarios. Then refer to the Hiking Safety Systems, planning calculators, and make sure a trusted contact has your trip plan before heading out.

Let someone know

Before you go, complete a trip intentions form and share it with a trusted contact. Agree on a Late-Back Time and ask them to call 000 (Police) if you have not checked in. A clear trip plan is one of the simplest and most effective safety steps you can take.

Register your plans here →

Free checklists

Download the hiking preparation and safety checklists before leaving home to help you think through your plans. They help ensure important considerations are not overlooked and support safer decision-making on the trail.

Advertisement


Getting there

Gold Coast Hinterland

The Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk adventure begins at Lamington National Park's Green Mountains section (O'Reilly's). Here's how to get there:

  • From the Pacific Motorway: Take Exit 69 (north) or Exit 71 (south) towards Nerang.
  • Look for signage directing you to Lamington National Park – Green Mountains via Canungra.
  • The 36km bitumen road from Canungra is winding and often narrow. Allow at least 50 minutes and drive with caution.

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

Get there with Google Maps

Accommodation nearby

Find hotels, cabins, and campgrounds near the trailhead. Click the button below to open an interactive map automatically centred on this hike's location — no searching required.

Find Accommodation

Or browse accommodation in nearby towns: Beechmont, Canungra, Mount Tamborine, Nerang, Oxenford, Tamborine Mountain, Wongawallan

Advertisement


Discover more

About the region

Gold Coast Hinterland

The Gold Coast Hinterland is an area of South East Queensland, Australia that comprises the Tweed Range, Nimmel Range, Tamborine Mountain, Numinbah Valley, eastern parts of the McPherson Range and western parts of suburban Gold Coast, such as Mudgeeraba. This undefined unit of area is known for its tourist attractions including resorts, rainforest, lookouts, national parks, its diversity of fauna and flora and as a green backdrop to the coastal strip. It overlaps part of the Scenic Rim and is part of both the City of Gold Coast and Scenic Rim Region and includes Springbrook, Binna Burra and O'Reilly's Guesthouse.

Lamington National Park

Immerse yourself in the captivating World Heritage rainforests of Lamington National Park, established in 1915 and spanning over 21,176 hectares. Located in south-east Queensland, close to Gold Coast, the park is part of the McPherson Range within the Scenic Rim mountain chain.

Lamington's extensive network of walking tracks caters to all abilities, from leisurely strolls to challenging hikes that delve deep into the heart of the rainforest. These tracks wind through lush valleys, past ancient trees and cascading waterfalls, leading you to dramatic lookouts offering panoramic views across the Gold Coast, south-east Queensland and even into northern New South Wales.

The park's significance extends beyond its beauty. Lamington is part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, renowned for its diverse ecosystems. Here you'll find some of the world's most extensive subtropical rainforests, warm temperate rainforests and the most northerly reaches of cool temperate Antarctic beech forests. This unique environment provides a vital habitat for a multitude of plant and animal life, including many threatened and endemic species.

Springbrook National Park

Nestled in the Gold Coast hinterland, Springbrook National Park offers a dramatic escape into the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area. This 6,558-hectare park, established as part of Queensland's five World Heritage properties, boasts a diverse landscape of cool temperate rainforests, open eucalypt woodlands, and montane heath.

Springbrook's most captivating features are undoubtedly its waterfalls, cascades, and tumbling creeks. These waterways weave through the lush rainforest, offering visitors a refreshing counterpoint to the subtropical heat. Walking tracks cater to all abilities, inviting exploration of this unique ecosystem. Choose from leisurely strolls through open forests to more challenging hikes that delve deeper into the rainforest canopy.

The park itself is divided into four sections, each offering its own distinct character. The Springbrook plateau provides sweeping views across the landscape, while Mount Cougal offers a glimpse into the area's logging history. Natural Bridge, best explored during the day, showcases a spectacular waterfall. For a truly unique experience, visit Natural Bridge after dark to witness the park's dazzling display of glow-worms. Finally, Numinbah Valley rewards visitors with breathtaking views of the valley's impressive cliffs, remnants of volcanic activity millions of years ago.

Explore nearby hikes

West canungra creek circuit 600x315
Grade 1

West Canungra Creek Circuit Hike (13.9km)

Lamington National Park
Queensland
9 Reviews
13.9km
5.5 hrs
Circuit
Border track gold coast hinterland 600x254
Grade 1

Border Track (21.4km)

Gold Coast Hinterland
Queensland
6 Reviews
21.4km
7 hrs
Return
Toolona creek circuit
Grade 1

Toolona Creek Circuit (17km)

Lamington National Park
Queensland
9 Reviews
17km
6 hrs
Circuit
Lamington border track
Grade 1

Lamington Border Track (22km)

Lamington National Park
Queensland
3 Reviews
22km
7-8 hrs
One Way

Photo gallery

Do you have any photos from this hike?

Your photos can help others plan. Share shots from along the trail so fellow hikers know what to expect.

Share your photos here →

Advertisement


Weather on the trail

Gold Coast Hinterland

The map below shows the rain forecast for the trail area. Tap the toggle in the top right corner to explore other layers including wind, temperature, UV index, thunderstorms, fire danger, and weather warnings — all useful for planning a safe hike.

Trail Reviews

3 Reviews on “Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk (54km)”

Overall rating

Leave a Review.

Notice something different about this trail?

Whether it’s a new feature, a route change, or a closure, share your update so we can keep our info accurate and helpful for fellow hikers.

Suggest an edit here →

Acknowledgement of Country

Gold coast hinterland great walk (54km) trail hiking australia

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:
Trail Hiking Australia Logo

Trail Hiking Australia is a free, independent resource for finding hikes, bushwalks and trail runs across Australia. It provides reliable trail information, safety guidance and practical planning tools to help people explore the outdoors and return safely. Community support keeps the site independent and accessible. Support Trail Hiking Australia here.

Tips and advice

Preparing to hike

Health & hygiene

Hike safety

Hiking skills

Navigation

Leading Hikes

Food for the trail

Get involved

Submit a trip report

Add a new trail

Subscribe for Updates

Support Trail Hiking Australia

Work with Me

About

Darren Edwards

Trail Hiking Australia

In the media

Bushwalking blog

Online route planners

Leave a Google review

Subscribe for Updates
Leave No Trace

Some links and ads on this site are affiliate links. Purchases made through them may earn a small commission that helps fund Trail Hiking Australia, a community-run public resource.

© 2013-2026 Darren Edwards - All Rights Reserved | Terms of Use | Privacy Policy | Disclaimer | Principles | Independence