Nerang National Park and State Forest

Only 12 kilometres from the heart of Surfers Paradise, Nerang National Park and State Forest offer a peaceful sanctuary where you can relax, unwind and refresh in nature. Popular with locals and visitors, this park and forest form a green backdrop to the township of Nerang in the Gold Coast hinterland.

Enjoy a scenic bushwalk on the Casuarina grove track along the creek (2.7 kilometre return). Set out on a relaxing horseride on the network of recreational trails shared by cyclists, walkers and horse riders to soak up the peace and quiet.

For cycling enthusiasts there's much on offer. Load up the mountain bikes and enjoy the excitement of tackling 20 kilometres of designated mountain bike tracks through dry rainforest and open eucalypt forests. Trails range from the easy Casuarina Grove circuit to intermediate tracks through tall forest and rough terrain.

In this popular bushland retreat, keep your eyes peeled for glossy black-cockatoos feeding in the casuarina groves and koalas sitting in the branches. If you are lucky you may spot a short-beaked echidna snuffling around the forest floor. Grey gums and blue gums make popular subjects for artists.

Image credits: Qld Govt