Guide to the waterfalls of Gondwana Rainforest

The most extensive areas of ancient subtropical rainforest in the world, the remnants of the vast Gondwana Rainforest is where you’ll find some of Queensland’s most impressive waterfalls.

Comprising Lamington, Springbrook, Mount Barney and Main Range National Parks, this UNESCO World Heritage Area is the last remaining pocket of the world’s oldest living rainforest and boasts some of the most impressive waterfalls in Australia. You don’t even need to travel far to reach them, either; all are within a 3-hours’ drive of Brisbane.

Waterfalls, wildlife, and wilderness – this pristine section of South East Queensland is nature’s triple threat. Dial-up the tranquillity at the best waterfalls in the Gondwana Rainforests.

Lamington National Park

Morans Falls

For a snapshot of the mighty Gondwana Rainforest of old, head to one of the many lookout points in Lamington National Park. Arguably the best is at the peak of the mighty Morans Falls.

An easy 140m stroll from the information centre and you’re teetering on the edge of this imposing lookout; the vast 80m drop of Moran Falls plummeting to the valley floor below. Follow the trail signs along the further 4km track where you’ll pass over the clear waters of

Morans Creek gorge to Morans Clearing lookout. Your incentive? Incredible views over the Albert River valley, Mount Barney and Mount Lindsey.

Larapinta Falls

A whopping 6-hour round trip it may be, but secret Gondwana waterfalls don’t come much prettier than Larapinta Falls. Deep within Lamington National Park, this hidden gem boasts a soaring, moss-covered cliff face and a very beautiful rockpool where swimming is absolutely encouraged. You’ll likely have the pace to yourself, so it would almost be rude not to…

While getting to Larapinta Falls is not for the faint of heart, it is a lot of fun. Follow the markers and flags along the path at Christmas Creek Track towards Stinson Wreck, then prepare for rock-hopping, creek wading and raw bushwalking aplenty.

Coomera Falls and Yarrabilgong Falls

This beauty of an 8km round trip to Coomera Falls never ceases to impress. Tucked away in the particularly lush Binna Burra section of Lamington National Park, follow the Coomera Circuit through the tea tree, eucalypt and brush box forests of Coomera Valley before arriving at Coomera Falls’ famous lookout ledge.

Suspended over the 160m drop, take in the magnitude of the mighty Coomera and Yarrabilgong Falls before being spoilt with yet more fall sightings – Goorawa Falls and Gwongorbulli Falls – along the Coomera Gorge section of the circuit.

Elabana Falls

The only two-tiered waterfalls in the Gondwana Rainforests, Elabana Falls is one of the prettiest sites in Lamington National Park. Lush hanging vines envelop the canopy above Elabana, and the rockpools below make it an idyllic escape from the sting of summer’s heat.

To access Elabana Falls, head off from O’Reiley’s along the Main Border trail, then get your fill of waterfall chasing by continuing along the Box Forest circuit. The 4-hour-long return walk encompasses Box Log Falls, Darragumai Falls and Nugurin Falls, as well as Picnic Rock waterhole – where a swim will be all but irresistible.

Springbrook National Park

Twin Falls

One of Springbrook National Park’s most iconic waterfalls, Twin Falls is also one of the most accessible – its circuit including a walk behind the cascade’s two falls. Particularly refreshing in the summer heat.

Choose between the 4km circuit from Tallabana picnic area or Canyon Lookout where you’ll walk through ancient rock formations, dense ferns and lush palms, even brush bark trees carbon dated as the oldest in Gondwana.

Tip: Twin Falls is the perfect itinerary add-on if you’re visiting Purling Brook Falls. Double the falls, double the fun…

Natural Bridge

The ace in Springbrook National Park’s slew of waterfalls, Natural Bridge’s magical-like qualities makes it one of Gondwana Rainforest’s most famous waterfalls. Carved from the sheer force of water crashing down over millions of years, its rock-shaped arch and natural skylight are a rare pairing indeed.

By day, watch the water cascade down into the piercing bluer lagoon below. By night, however, the ceiling omits an ethereal glow from the millions of tiny glow worms which live here. This very special site prohibits swimming in its waters, but fear not

If you can believe it, this ancient natural wonder of Gondwana is within walking distance from the visitor’s car park.

Purling Brook Falls

At over 100m tall, Purling Brook Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in Springbrook National Park – and equally, one of the most breathtaking. Ancient Gondwana rainforest’s elegant single fall with a crystal-clear lagoon at the bottom is quite the sight year-round and is a jaw-dropping natural swimming pool after a hike in the National Park.

Allow yourself approx. 2 hours to complete the 4km Purling Brook Falls Circuit; starting at the Gwoggorella picnic area in a clockwise direction, the trail snakes its way through lush rainforest and tropical palms, arriving at the base of the falls before looping back. Sensational views of the falls are to be had at the top and the bottom. Bonus!

Tip: For maximum waterfall appreciation, drop in at Purling Brook during the wet season (between November and April).

Main Range National Park

Queen Mary Falls

One of the most famous waterfalls in the Gondwana Rainforest, Queen Mary Falls is also one of the easiest to visit. Just outside of the township of Killarney, the Queen Mary Falls Circuit takes a mere 30 minutes to complete; its gentle descent winding to the bottom of the falls along the Condamine River.

Your reward for this hard slog? Stellar views of the Queen Mary’s 40-metre cascade. Pretty good pay off, no?

Mt Barney National Park

Cronan Creek Secret Falls

Located towards the end of Cronan Creek Track, this picturesque 13km return hike guides intrepid travellers to the base of Gondwana’s most tranquil waterfall– Cronan Creek Secret Falls.

To find Cronan Falls you’ll first walk through both vast open bushland and dense pockets of rainforest, arriving at your destination at the foot of Mt Barney after approximately 2 hours. Here, get some r and r by luxuriating in your private oasis, where verdant plants and smooth boulders line the edges of the fall’s rockpools, and where birdsong fills the air. Gondwana magic right there.

Ready to jump in? Here are the best waterfalls in Queensland for swimming in.