Safety is paramount on this trail, as sheer cliffs and slippery edges near the waterfall pose serious hazards. Always stick to the marked paths and supervise children closely. Restricted access areas are enforced at the top and base of the falls to protect visitors—be sure to respect these guidelines to avoid penalties.
The Warringa Pool Track is a 6km, grade 3 hike that begins near the base of Purling Brook Falls, branching off from the Purling Brook Falls Circuit. It takes around three hours to complete the return journey from the Gwongorella picnic area, offering an immersive experience in Springbrook National Park’s diverse landscapes. This track follows Little Nerang Creek, which continues to shape the surrounding boulders as it flows. Along the way, you'll walk through dense rainforest, with towering trees and lush undergrowth providing shade and serenity.
The track ends at Warringa Pool, a peaceful spot where the water flows gently, surrounded by the quiet hum of the forest. Be mindful that the rocks near the creek can be slippery, even when they seem dry, so take extra care as you navigate the trail. This track is also part of the Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk, marked with arrow markers along the route. It's a challenging walk, so it's recommended only for experienced hikers who have a copy of the Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk topographic map.
While the Warringa Pool Track is usually walked as a return journey, it can also be extended into a slightly longer circuit by combining it with the Purling Brook Falls Circuit. This variation adds extra interest to the walk, as it allows you to experience different sections of the park without retracing your steps. The Purling Brook Falls Circuit takes you through open eucalypt forest, where you can spot fire-adapted species like lepidozamias, hakeas, and vibrant wildflowers. The trail descends into a gorge, where you’ll be treated to stunning views of Purling Brook Falls before crossing a suspension bridge and returning through lush rainforest to the picnic area. This combination creates a more varied and fulfilling hiking experience. Before setting out, check for any track closures after significant rainfall, as parts of the trail may be temporarily inaccessible for safety.
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.
Warringa Pool Track Return (6km)
Total distance: 6062 m
Max elevation: 608 m
Min elevation: 410 m
Total climbing: 497 m
Total descent: -496 m
Login to Download GPXGPX files, maps and content are copyright Trail Hiking Australia. Not to be copied, redistributed or uploaded to other platforms including AllTrails.
Warringa Pool Track and Purling Brook Falls Circuit (6.5km)
Total distance: 6399 m
Max elevation: 608 m
Min elevation: 410 m
Total climbing: 508 m
Total descent: -507 m
Login to Download GPXGPX files, maps and content are copyright Trail Hiking Australia. Not to be copied, redistributed or uploaded to other platforms including AllTrails.
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.
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.
Getting to the trailhead: Springbrook National Park.
To reach the trailhead at Gwongorella Picnic Area in Springbrook National Park, head south from Brisbane, approximately 100km away, or 40km inland from the Gold Coast. Follow the Pacific Motorway (M1) and take the exit for Nerang. From Nerang, follow Nerang-Murwillumbah Road, then turn onto Pine Creek Road, which leads to the plateau. Continue on Springbrook Road, a winding route offering scenic views of the hinterland, until you reach Gwongorella Picnic Area. This well-signposted area serves as the starting point for the Purling Brook Falls Circuit and provides facilities such as parking, picnic tables, and restrooms.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Springbrook National Park, less than 100 kilometres south of Brisbane in Queensland, is a remarkable destination for bushwalks, hikes, and outdoor adventures. As part of the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests, the park features ancient rainforests, dramatic waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes that tell a story millions of years in the making.
Each trail within the park offers a unique experience. Short walks, such as the Best of All Lookout, reward visitors with sweeping views of the surrounding valleys and mountains, while longer hikes like the Twin Falls Circuit wind through lush rainforest, passing waterfalls and tranquil creeks. The Natural Bridge trail is a standout, leading to a striking waterfall that flows through a rock arch, with the added magic of glow-worms visible after dark. In the Numinbah Valley, the towering cliffs carved by the Tweed Volcano provide breathtaking scenery along the way.
Whether you’re after a casual walk, a challenging hike, or a family-friendly trail, Springbrook National Park offers an incredible variety of tracks to suit every pace and preference.
Got any photos from this hike? Your photos can help others plan. Share shots from along the trail so fellow hikers know what to expect.
Click to add your photos >>
Looking for more walks in or near Springbrook National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
Favourite
Springbrook National Park
Favourite
Springbrook National Park
Favourite
Favourite
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.
Click to suggest edits >>
