The best walks and hikes in Austinville Conservation Area (Mount Gannon Section)

Springbrook National Park covers approximately 6,725 hectares (about 67 km²) and is a protected area in Queensland’s Gold Coast hinterland, forming part of the UNESCO-listed Gondwana Rainforests of Australia. It features a diverse landscape of subtropical and temperate rainforests, eucalypt forests, cliffs, and more than a dozen waterfalls sculpted by the ancient Tweed volcano. The park is known for its scenic lookouts, high rainfall environment, and network of walking tracks across four main sections.

The Cream Track is a long and challenging historic walking route from Tallebudgera Valley to the Springbrook Plateau, following a former dairy transport path. This section leading to the falls is a shaded rainforest path with several creek crossings and uneven terrain, so be sure to wear appropriate footwear, as you'll likely get your feet wet on the way. After the third crossing, a short climb leads to a junction with a few constructed steps on the main track, and a narrower path to the left that continues to follow the creek upstream to reach Gorge Falls.

Gorge Falls is a hidden gem, accessible via a rough side path that splits off from the Cream Track. The waterfall flows into a narrow, shaded pool surrounded by lush rainforest and steep, rocky cliffs, creating a more intimate and secluded atmosphere than many of the park's more famous waterfalls. Its remote setting contributes to its tranquillity and rugged charm, attracting mostly experienced walkers who are familiar with the route.

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.

This rocky high point is an ideal vantage point where you can see the landscape stretching across forested ridges toward the Pacific Ocean and the distant Gold Coast skyline. On clear days, you can see Wollumbin (Mount Warning) rising above the surrounding ranges, along with the Springbrook plateau and nearby hinterland mountains such as Mount Cougal. It's a rewarding climb and a fantastic opportunity to take in the scenery before heading back.

Bally Mountain Conservation Area protects a large section of natural bushland in the southern Gold Coast hinterland. Covering about 483 hectares, the reserve forms part of a vegetated ridgeline separating the Tallebudgera and Austinville valleys. The area provides habitat for native wildlife and contributes to an important ecological corridor that connects nearby protected areas, including Burleigh Head National Park and Springbrook. There are several walking tracks through the reserve for plenty of options to explore this rugged landscape and experience the region’s diverse ecosystems.

Bally Mountain summit trail climbs through the forested slopes of Bally Mountain Conservation Area to one of the most rewarding viewpoints in the southern Gold Coast hinterland. Beginning along a gravel management road, the track quickly narrows to singletrack and crosses a creek before rising relatively steeply through dense bushland and rocky terrain. The path becomes increasingly rugged as it approaches the summit, with uneven ground and exposed rock, so it's a good idea to wear appropriate footwear. Though parts of the route can be challenging, the reward is an enjoyable sense of remoteness as you immerse yourself in the surrounding landscape.

The Purling Brook Falls Circuit is a Grade 3 loop that typically takes about two hours to complete from the Gwongorella picnic area. It descends through open eucalypt forest into a rainforest gorge, offering views of the falls from both the top and base, before crossing a suspension bridge and climbing back to the plateau. The track is well-formed but includes steep sections, steps and cliff-edge environments, so moderate fitness and care are recommended, especially for families walking with small children.