In short
- Natural Bridge is a 1km walk suitable for kids.
- Best of All Lookout offers a quick 600m track.
- Keep children close near gorge edges and lookouts.
In this article
- What are the best Springbrook National Park family walks?
- Is the Natural Bridge circuit suitable for toddlers?
- How long do the longer waterfall walks take?
- Are the gorge lookouts safe for children?
- What should families pack for a day trip?
- Can kids swim at the waterfalls?
- Is the drive up the mountain difficult with kids?
Visiting with children requires a bit of planning. Mountain weather changes fast, and the terrain ranges from flat paths to steep cliff edges. Stick to the shorter tracks to keep young hikers happy and safe.
What are the best Springbrook National Park family walks?
The best family walks are the 1km Natural Bridge circuit and the 600m Best of All Lookout track.
Both tracks are short and easy to navigate. The Natural Bridge track takes about 45 minutes to complete. The Best of All Lookout walk takes 30 minutes through ancient Antarctic beech forest. Keep an eye out for small rainforest wallabies called pademelons here.
Is the Natural Bridge circuit suitable for toddlers?
Yes, the Natural Bridge circuit is a Grade 2 track with sealed sections.
It spans 1km return and winds through subtropical rainforest. If you visit at night to see the glow-worms, keep children close. Pack a red-light torch to see the path without disturbing the colony. Remind kids that flash photography is strictly prohibited.
How long do the longer waterfall walks take?
The Purling Brook Falls and Twin Falls circuits each take about 2 hours to complete.
These are 4km Grade 3 walking tracks. They involve steep sections, stairs, and muddy paths after rain. They are better suited for older, active children rather than toddlers. Walk Purling Brook Falls in a clockwise direction to ease the climb back up.
Are the gorge lookouts safe for children?
Lookouts are fenced, but you must keep children close at all times.
The Springbrook plateau sits 990 metres above sea level. Canyon Lookout and others feature dramatic drop-offs into the gorge. Always supervise young children. Do not let them climb on safety rails or wander off the designated walking tracks.
What should families pack for a day trip?
Pack warm clothing layers, sturdy enclosed shoes, and plenty of food and water.
There are very limited food options within the park. Drinking water is not available at most trailheads. The mountain plateau is significantly cooler than the Gold Coast, and the rainforest receives high rainfall year-round. Bring a rain jacket or poncho for everyone.
Can kids swim at the waterfalls?
Swimming is strictly prohibited in Cave Creek at Natural Bridge.
This rule protects the fragile glow-worm and microbat habitat. On-the-spot fines apply for breaking this rule. Wait until you return to the Gold Coast for swimming, or enjoy the mist from the waterfalls on the Twin Falls circuit instead.
Is the drive up the mountain difficult with kids?
The drive takes 45 to 60 minutes from the Gold Coast via winding mountain roads.
Roads can be steep and twisty. If your children suffer from motion sickness, prepare accordingly. Alternatively, you can book a guided tour that includes hotel pickup and lets someone else handle the driving.
Questions travellers ask
Do we have to pay an entry fee for the kids?
No. General entry to Springbrook National Park is completely free for all visitors, including children. You only pay if you book a commercial tour.
Can we bring our family dog to the park?
No. Domestic animals and pets are not permitted anywhere in the national park. Only certified assistance dogs are allowed on the trails.
Can kids use insect repellent at the glow worm cave?
You should apply insect repellent well before arriving. Do not use it near the Natural Bridge cave area. The chemicals kill the glow-worms' food source.
