Purling Brook Falls

Around 90 minutes drive from Brisbane, one of the Gold Coast’s most stunning waterfalls awaits. Best visited after some rain when it is truly impressive, Purling Brook Falls flows all year round and provides a real reward for your 4km trek.

The Purling Brook Falls Circuit is a stunning walk through Gondwana and Eucalypt forests and is teeming with wildlife. The trail begins close to the top of the falls, with a track that can be taken in either direction (though clockwise is recommended to avoid having to climb too many stairs at the end). There are two lookouts that give great views of the falls very close to the beginning of the circuit—one lookout around 100m in one direction and the other around 350m in the opposite direction. The 4km circuit is quite steep in parts, but is definitely worth the walk as it leads down into the gorge, providing fantastic views of the Purling Brook Falls from below. Surrounded by lush green tree ferns and often framed by rainbows in the spray from the falls, it’s a magical place to sit and gaze up at the incredible natural beauty of our Queensland National Parks.

AT A GLANCE

Family Friendly: Yes, however caution is required. Length of walk: 4km circuit (approx. 2-hours round trip). Level of difficulty: Moderate – Some sections of stairs and steep ascents/ descents.

Carpark: Yes. Facilities: Toilets and picnic areas at the start of the trail.

Accessibility: Restricted access at the top and base of the falls. Not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs.

Swimming: Swimming is not permitted. How to get there: Circuit starts from carpark at end of Forestry Road, Springbrook, QLD, 4213

To read our complete review of Purling Brook Falls, head to www.brisbanekids.com.au/purling-brookfalls-in-springbrook-national-park.