The Lower Creek Circuit offers a rewarding and slightly challenging walk in the heart of Tamborine National Park. Starting from the car park at the end of Dapsang Drive, the trail immediately takes you into the lush, shaded eucalypt rainforest, providing an immersive escape from the nearby urban areas. The circuit crosses Cedar Creek several times, and you'll need to do some rock hopping as you navigate the creek’s rocky edges. Along the way, you'll encounter stunning basalt boulders and columns that give a glimpse into the park’s volcanic past.
As you continue, the track becomes more demanding, characteristic of a Grade 4 walk. The path includes several creek crossings and requires careful foot placement, particularly after rainfall when the track can be muddy and slippery. Sturdy footwear is a must, and you may also find yourself scrambling over fallen trees or navigating sections where the track has eroded. But the effort is well worth it, as you’re rewarded with a peaceful rainforest experience where birdsong fills the air. If you’re lucky, you might catch the distinct call of the Albert’s Lyrebird, the bird that inspired the area’s name, "Joalah," meaning 'haunt of the lyrebird' in the local Aboriginal language.
The highlight of the walk is a side trip to the lovely Curtis Falls, a small but charming waterfall surrounded by ferns and moss-covered rocks. While you can't swim directly beneath the falls, you may spot water dragons nearby, adding to the charm of the location. The walk is shaded throughout, enhancing the feeling of being immersed in nature, far removed from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. For a more peaceful experience, it’s best to start early, avoiding the crowds and the noise from the nearby road. This 2.6-kilometre return track, with an estimated time of around an hour, offers a satisfying experience for those looking for a moderate hike with a mix of creekside views, rainforest atmosphere, and the occasional rock scramble.
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.
Total distance: 2607 m
Max elevation: 526 m
Min elevation: 470 m
Total climbing: 94 m
Total descent: -94 m
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Getting to the trailhead: Tamborine National Park.
To reach the trailhead for the Lower Creek Circuit, 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.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Wondering where to stay near this hike? Find accommodation close to the trailhead — hotels, cabins and campgrounds nearby. Click the button to view the interactive map.
Closest towns to this walk: Canungra, Clagiraba, Eagle Heights, Guanaba, Mount Nathan, Mount Tamborine, North Tamborine, Oxenford, Tamborine, Tamborine Mountain, Tamborine Village, Wongawallan, Wonglepong
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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 more walks in or near Tamborine National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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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.
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