The best running trails in Numinbah Nature Reserve

Tullawallal Lookout sits high on the edge of Lamington National Park with sweeping views across the McPherson Range, forested valleys, and layered ridgelines stretching towards the Queensland–New South Wales border. The lookout is reached via a short side track through subtropical rainforest, where dense canopy suddenly opens to exposed cliff-edge views across the surrounding wilderness. Early mornings often bring low cloud and mist drifting through the valleys below.

The Border Track crosses both the Green Mountains and Binna Burra sections of Lamington National Park and offers visitors a dizzying array of flora, fauna, and geologic wonders to explore. Stretching over 21.4 kilometres, one way, the track is also part of the Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk that runs for 54 kilometres and is a great option for those looking at doing a multi-day hike in the region.

Warringa Pool is a deep, clear swimming hole along Little Nerang Creek, surrounded by dense rainforest. One of the few places in the park where swimming is permitted, the pool is fed by a small cascade at its upper end, with smooth rock edges and a more sheltered setting than the main falls. The name comes from an Aboriginal word meaning “cool place.” It’s reached via a short side track off the main circuit near the base of Purling Brook Falls. Getting to the pool involves uneven ground and rocky surfaces, which can be slippery, especially after rain. However, the pool is best visited after heavy rainfall.

Tullawallal Circuit passes through beautiful open eucalypt forest and sandstone country, forming a short loop through quiet bushland, with sections of natural trail surrounded by native vegetation and seasonal wildflowers. Its peaceful forest setting and gently undulating terrain make it an enjoyable walk within the park’s more expansive trail network.

Nagarigoon Falls is a small but picturesque cascade tucked within the rainforest. Water spills over a rocky ledge into a shaded gully, and the surrounding vegetation and filtered light create a cool, enclosed atmosphere typical of the park’s upland rainforest.

Neubani Rock is a rocky outcrop along the Daves Creek Circuit that opens to views across the forested plateau and distant ranges. The exposed rock provides a natural place to pause after the surrounding sections of enclosed bushland. It’s a quieter viewpoint than some of the main lookouts, offering a more subtle but still rewarding perspective on the Springbrook landscape.

Surprise Rock Lookout is a beautiful spot with sweeping views across the forested valleys and distant ranges. The rocky outcrop creates a natural viewing platform where the landscape unexpectedly opens up after the sheltered forest sections. It’s one of the circuit’s standout vantage points, especially on clear days.

Numinbah Lookout sits along the escarpment edge, offering fantastic, wide views over the Numinbah Valley and surrounding rainforest. From here, the contrast between the elevated plateau and the deep valley below is especially clear. It’s a quieter viewpoint that gives a strong sense of the park’s scale and rugged terrain.