Now that the temperature has dropped it’s the perfect time to rug up and get outdoors. Staying active is so important in the cooler months for your physical wellbeing and one of the easiest ways to get moving is by walking. Out amongst nature you can reset, recharge and reconnect and we've discovered the best walking tracks in and around Stockland Burleigh Heads for you to discover on your next outdoor adventure.
Nice and easy
If you’re a beginner, have kids in toe, are on a time limit, or looking for more of a Sunday stroll rather than a serious hike, these little treasures are all one hour or less, under 2km and right in our backyard.
Cougal Cascades, Currumbin Valley
Just a short drive from Burleigh (roughly 30 minutes) and you’re in the Currumbin Valley. Wander beneath the lush canopy, and if you’re feeling the heat by the time you discover the cascades, cool off in the famous rock pools and streams.
Distance: 1.5 kilometres
Time: 30-40 minutes
Ocean View Walk, Burleigh Headland National Park
We might be biased, but it’s hard to go past our very own Burleigh Headland National Park. Ticking the boxes for stunning scenery, plant life, beautiful views, close to home and with plenty of opportunity to take a dip, there’s no wonder it’s a favourite amongst Gold Coasters.
Local tip: Pack your swimmers and a backpack full of snacks and spend a while in the stunning Tallebudgera Creek before you head back to Burleigh.
Distance: 1 kilometre
Time: 30 minutes
Rainforest Circuit, Burleigh Headland National Park
Have a little longer? Head up-hill and take the slightly longer circuit to take in all the Headland has to offer.
Local tip: Even if you’ve taken this stroll one hundred times over, we highly recommend visiting Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre and taking the walk with one of their knowledgeable guides to see the Headland you know and love in a whole new light.
Distance: 2 kilometres
Time: 1 hour
Natural Bridge Circuit, Springbrook National Park
If you’re up for driving a little further outside the Burleigh Bubble, Springbrook National Park is well known for its fantastic trails. To start out nice and easy, we love Natural Bridge Circuit. Short, sweet and suitable for all abilities, this track is filled with beautiful rainforest foliage, diverse birdlife and cool streams.
Distance: 1 kilometre
Time: 1 hour
A little more
If you want to get the heart rate up just a little, without committing to a full day hike or anything too strenuous, these perfectly ‘in-the-middle’ trails will make you smile.
Witches Falls Circuit, Tamborine National Park
This fun circuit will have you heading down hill (and back up again) just enough to get the blood pumping. The reward at the bottom – the gorgeous waterfalls. The reward at the top… Witches Falls Winery. Cin-cin!
Distance: 3 kilometres
Time: 1.5 hours
Curtis Falls And Joalah Lower Creek Circuit, Tamborine National Park
While we are on Tamborine Mountain, and particularly glorious after heavy rain, Curtis Falls and Joalah Lower Creek Circuit, are worth adding to your moderate walk list. Slightly longer at 5kms and a good couple of hours, why not book yourself a cabin for the night and rest those tired muscles and share tales of a day well spent by a cosy fireplace?
Distance: 5 kilometres
Time: 2-3 hours
Hardcore Hiker
If you’re ready to commit to a solid day of walking, these iconic trails can’t be missed. A word to the wise – you’re really going to want to make sure you’re prepared with the right walking shoes, comfortable clothing, plenty of water and snacks. These happy hikes are a full day adventure.
Warrie Circuit, Springbrook National Park
Starting at a cliff base before descending into the rainforest, on Warrie Circuit you’ll have the day to take in all the beauty of a rainforest canyon.
Distance: 17 kilometres
Time: 6-7 hours
Toolona Creek Circuit, Lamington National Park
With the famous Binna Burra Lodge now reopen after the devastating fires, what better excuse to support this iconic piece of local heritage, while getting amongst nature. With walks up to six hours long, something tells us you might be thankful you did. This particular walk will see your day jam-packed with beauty and countless waterfalls and cascades.
Distance: 17 kilometres
Time: 5-6 hours
Lower Bellbird lookout track, Lamington National Park
Another Lamington option will see you take in a number of the sites in one epic combo of a trail. Descend through rainforest and open forest to Bellbird lookout, which is a short side-track with excellent views. If by here you’ve decided you’d rather head back for a hot cuppa, you can. Otherwise, continue on the Lower Bellbird track to Koolanibilba and Yangaha lookouts.
Note: Binna Burra Road forms part of the return circuit, so please take care especially on weekends when traffic is busy.
Distance: 12 kilometres
Time: 4 hours
Also a great guide to Gold Coast trials overall or for further reliable information right here
How many walks have you ticked off? Stretch your legs and get a buddy on-board because walking with a friend is a social adventure! There is so much to see and do at each garden, reserve or park that your social calendar will be filled for weeks to come. Want to discover other activities to keep you busy while in isolation? Head straight to our Belong hub and get reading!
