Behind the high-rises and the beaches, the Gold Coast hinterland rises into cool, mist-draped rainforest. Springbrook National Park and Tamborine Mountain are the two most popular entries, and both are within about an hour of the coast. Springbrook is part of the World Heritage listed Gondwana Rainforests, with tall waterfalls, high-altitude lookouts and Natural Bridge, a rock arch over a cave where waterfall water pours through and glow worms light the dark. Tamborine Mountain mixes national park walks, Curtis Falls and a village of galleries, cafes and wineries on the plateau. The Viator tour, which has hundreds of reviews and a very strong rating, collects the highlights into a single 9.5 hour day from Brisbane: Curtis Falls, the Tamborine Mountain Glow Worm Caves, Tamborine village and Gallery Walk, a hang glider lookout, Natural Bridge and Hinze Dam. The price includes national park fees, transport in a small air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, tea or coffee and lunch. It is an excellent answer if you do not want to drive winding mountain roads yourself, and it is sensible for travellers staying in Brisbane. Gold Coast hotels also have pick-up options with some operators, so ask before booking.
Why go: Brisbane and the Gold Coast sell sun and surf, but the hinterland shows the greener side of the region, cooler in summer and full of birdlife, ferns and waterfalls. Springbrook's Natural Bridge is especially memorable for its glow worms, and the walk to it is short and well-formed.
Current status: Queensland Parks has a planned closure running from 2 November 2026 to 15 February 2028, weather permitting, affecting Springbrook's Settlement Day-Use Area and parts of the Purling Brook Falls circuit, including the eastern lookout and the causeway above the falls. The main western lookout, the suspension bridge at the base and the Warringa Pool track remain open via Gwongorella Picnic Area. The Natural Bridge is not mentioned in that alert, but check Queensland Parks before you go, and ask your tour operator which stops are running.
Planning it: choose a clear, dry day, because rain can close trails and mist hides lookouts. Wear sturdy shoes, bring a light jacket for higher altitude and a change of clothes if you plan to swim. A guided tour handles transport and permits, while self-drivers can base themselves on the Gold Coast and stop at Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk, sold on Tiqets, which is another good option for a shorter visit. Combine the hinterland with a night at a Gold Coast hotel for a relaxed pace.
What to expect
The experience
A guided small-vehicle day tour stopping at Curtis Falls, Tamborine glow worm caves, Tamborine village, a hang glider lookout, Natural Bridge and Hinze Dam.
Best time
A clear, dry day; summer for lush falls, winter for cooler walking.
How long
About nine and a half hours from a Brisbane city meeting point.
Tips
Wear sturdy shoes, bring a light jacket and check which Springbrook stops are open, given the Purling Brook works.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Nature lovers who want waterfalls and glow worms without driving mountain roads.
- Families
- Good for older children who can handle a full day and short walks.
- Couples
- Quiet lookouts, cafes and the glow worm cave make a relaxed day out.
- Pair with
- A Gold Coast beach day or SkyPoint to see the ranges from above.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
What does the Springbrook and Tamborine tour include?+
Transport, a guide, national park fees, bottled water, tea or coffee and lunch. Stops include Curtis Falls, glow worm caves, Natural Bridge and Hinze Dam.
Where does the tour depart?+
The listing gives a Brisbane city meeting point on Margaret Street, with a morning departure. Confirm the details at booking, as hotel pickup information can differ.
Is anything at Springbrook closed?+
Queensland Parks lists a partial closure from 2 November 2026 to 15 February 2028, covering Settlement Day-Use Area and parts of the Purling Brook Falls circuit. The western lookout stays open.
Can I see glow worms?+
Yes, the tour includes Tamborine Mountain Glow Worm Caves and Natural Bridge, which is well known for glow worms.
Can I visit without a tour?+
Yes, by car from the Gold Coast or Brisbane. Roads are winding, so allow extra driving time and check park alerts before you set out.
