Natural Bridge Circuit, Springbrook National Park

This circuit walk is in the Natural Bridge section of Springbrook National Park. Dominating the Gold Coast's western skyline, Springbrook's cool forests and mountain streams offer views of impressive landscapes and walks among subtropical and temperate rainforest, open eucalypt forest and montane heath. The park is part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area. A sealed circuit track takes you through the forest, across Cave Creek and into the arched cave to witness the waterfall plunging from above. With long sets of stairs, it is easier to walk this circuit in a clockwise direction. Remember to check for Park Alerts in wet weather as some areas may be closed for visitor safety. The hoop pines that emerge through the thick greenery of the surrounding rainforest are living relics of the Jurassic Age—the Age of the Conifers—about 180 million years ago. These pines are 'living dinosaurs'—they are among the most primitive of all conifers. Natural Bridge is very popular with walkers and bird lovers during the day. At night, the cave comes alive with the tiny green lights of thousands of nocturnal glow-worms, and the silent wings of microbats. Glow-worms are visible year-round, their display is significantly reduced during the winter months. To protect the glow-worms and maximise visitor safety, parts of Cave Creek are a Restricted Access Area—swimming is prohibited and penalties apply.