For your safety, stay on the designated track, as steep cliff edges can be hazardous. Always keep a close watch on children.
Jenyns Circuit offers a diverse and rewarding walk through the Tamborine National Park, blending the lush greenery of the Palm Grove section with the drier, more open eucalypt forest. This 4.8km loop begins at the end of Palm Grove Avenue in Eagle Heights, leading walkers through a striking contrast of ecosystems. The initial section follows the Palm Grove Circuit, where towering strangler figs, yellow carabeens, and piccabeen palms create a cool, shaded environment. As the track continues, it transitions into a more open forest of brush box, grey gums, and hoop pines, offering a change in scenery and a sense of space beneath the taller canopy.
One of the highlights of this circuit is a grove of ancient cycads, their striking forms adding to the sense of history and resilience within the landscape. The track gently descends before looping back uphill, though some hikers may find the latter section less engaging, especially with Jenyns Falls now inaccessible from the main trail. Despite this, the walk remains an enjoyable and relatively peaceful experience, with plenty of birdlife to observe along the way. The best time to visit is between March and November, when cooler temperatures and drier conditions make for a more comfortable walk. Like all trails in Tamborine National Park, this one is dog-free to help protect the local wildlife.
Total distance: 4171 m
Max elevation: 525 m
Min elevation: 365 m
Total climbing: 216 m
Total descent: -216 m
Download file:
Jenyns-Circuit.gpx
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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.
The trailhead is located at the car park at the end of Palm Grove Avenue, with an alternative access point from Curtis Road. The Palm Grove section takes its name from the piccabeen palms that thrive in this area, creating a dense, almost jungle-like atmosphere in the lower sections of the walk. Parking is limited, and there are no facilities for buses or caravans, but a picnic table near the entrance provides a nice spot to rest before or after your walk.
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 4 (Hard) -
Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the
AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
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.
