The track passes through a landslip area where movement can occur. Follow all signage carefully and avoid stopping in the marked landslip zone to ensure your safety. Be aware of changing conditions, particularly after heavy rain, and take extra care when navigating this section of the trail.
Witches Falls Circuit is a 3.6 km, Grade 4 hike in Tamborine National Park, Queensland, offering a rich blend of history, diverse landscapes, and seasonal beauty. The walk typically takes around 1.5 hours and winds through an ever-changing forest that shifts from open woodland to dense rainforest, revealing the park’s remarkable biodiversity along the way.
The trail begins just beyond the commemorative shelter, descending in a series of gentle zigzags through an open forest of banksia trees. As the path dips lower, the landscape transforms, with towering strangler figs weaving their way through the rainforest canopy. Along the way, seasonal lagoons emerge, cradled by groves of piccabeen palms. After heavy rain, these lagoons fill with water, creating a temporary oasis that attracts frogs and a chorus of insects, adding a dynamic layer of life to the forest.
A short 200-metre detour leads to the Witches Falls lookout, where the waterfall can be seen tumbling over the escarpment after recent rain. During drier periods, the rocky ledge remains, framed by lush vegetation, offering a sense of the ever-changing nature of this landscape. The track can be slippery when wet, so sturdy footwear is recommended, along with insect repellent to ward off the midges and mosquitoes that thrive in the humid conditions.
Witches Falls holds a special place in Queensland’s history, as it was the first area to be declared a national park under the State Forests and National Park Act 1906. Established in 1908, it remains the state’s oldest national park, protecting a unique pocket of Gondwana-era rainforest and providing a glimpse into the region’s ancient past.
Total distance: 3497 m
Max elevation: 563 m
Min elevation: 464 m
Total climbing: 132 m
Total descent: -133 m
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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 accessed from Main Western Road in Tamborine National Park. A well-maintained picnic area near the entrance provides a convenient spot to rest before or after your walk, featuring electric barbecues, wheelchair-accessible picnic tables, and toilets. Parking is available nearby, with space for larger vehicles at the southern end of the picnic area. This section of the park is easy to find and well-signposted, making it a great starting point for exploring one of Tamborine Mountain’s most scenic and historically significant trails.
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.
