Springbrook has a really nice hiking route. The Purling Brook Falls Circuit is about 4 km in total, with a difficulty level of 3. If you don’t want to challenge yourself too much, it’s better to walk clockwise, so you get more downhill stairs and mostly gentle uphill slopes. We walked quite slowly and it took about 1.5 hours. This year there has been a lot of rain, so the waterfall looks great, but parts of the track can be muddy. After visiting the waterfall, there is also Best of All Lookout nearby. After parking, it is about a 300 m walk through the national park. Along the way, you pass some ancient beech trees. The lookout has a very wide view, and it feels very peaceful once you arrive. Location: Purling Brook Falls Best accessed by car Navigation: Purling Brook Falls Lookout Parking is free but limited Located in Springbrook National Park About 45 minutes from the Gold Coast About 80 minutes from Brisbane The waterfall is over 100 meters high and is especially impressive during the rainy season when the water flow is strong. It is surrounded by ancient rainforest that is part of a World Heritage area, with very fresh air and dramatic scenery including waterfalls, cliffs, and mist. The walking track is well maintained and not too difficult, suitable for families.
Springbrook Falls (Purling Brook)
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Springbrook Falls (Purling Brook)
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Springbrook Falls (Purling Brook) famous?
Purling Brook Falls is famous for its 109-metre single-drop cascade into a lush subtropical rainforest gorge within the Gondwana Rainforests World Heritage Area. The waterfall is part of the ancient Tweed Volcano caldera system and offers one of the most scenic rainforest walks in Southeast Queensland.
Can you swim at Springbrook Falls (Purling Brook)?
No — swimming is not permitted at the base of Purling Brook Falls due to safety hazards from the high drop and unstable rocks. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Springbrook Falls (Purling Brook)?
Dogs are not permitted on tracks in Springbrook National Park, including the Purling Brook Falls circuit. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Springbrook Falls (Purling Brook) free? Do you need a permit?
Free — no entry fee or permit is required to visit Springbrook National Park and Purling Brook Falls. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Springbrook Falls (Purling Brook)?
Free parking is available at the Purling Brook Falls car park with spaces for approximately 30-40 vehicles. The trailhead begins directly from the car park. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Springbrook Falls (Purling Brook)?
About 4 km return on the Purling Brook Falls circuit track, which descends to the base of the falls and returns via a loop. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Springbrook Falls (Purling Brook) hike difficulty
Moderate — includes steep sections with steps, elevation loss and gain of about 150 metres, and can be slippery when wet on the rainforest track. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Springbrook Falls (Purling Brook)?
April to October (autumn to spring) offers the best combination of reliable water flow from recent rainfall and comfortable hiking temperatures. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Springbrook Falls (Purling Brook)
From the car park, follow the circuit track clockwise which descends through subtropical rainforest with steps and boardwalks. The trail passes the top of the falls with viewing platforms, then continues down to the base where you can view the 109-metre cascade. Return via the loop track climbing back through rainforest to the car park.
Springbrook Falls (Purling Brook) official website
Attractions near Springbrook Falls (Purling Brook)
- •Natural Bridge – iconic rock arch with cave and waterfall, home to glow-worms at night
- •Twin Falls Circuit – scenic walk to two beautiful waterfalls in Springbrook National Park
- •Best of All Lookout – panoramic views over the Gold Coast and hinterland rainforest
- •Canyon Lookout – dramatic views into the ancient volcanic caldera and surrounding valleys
- •Mount Cougal National Park – swimming holes and additional waterfalls nearby
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
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