Purling Brook Falls Circuit, Springbrook National Park

Spectacular waterfalls and cool ancient forests await you in the beautiful World Heritage-listed Gondwana rainforest of Springbrook National Park. On this beautiful circuit walk, in the Springbrook Plateau section of the park, pass through the open eucalypt forest of New England ash, before descending into the gorge to view the falls from below. After crossing the suspension bridge a steady climb through the forest brings the walker back to the picnic area. Look for ancient lepidozamias, colourful hakeas and dazzling wildflowers along the way to this stunning waterfall. There are 265 steps on this walk and it's easier to walk in a clockwise direction. With the beauty of sheer cliffs and waterfalls also comes danger, always check Park Alerts for the latest conditions and closures, especially in wet weather. Always stick to the track - a slip could be fatal. If you've got time, detour on the Warringa Pool track, which leads downstream from the base of the falls; you'll add another 2 kilometres to the walk and need to allow another 40 minutes to return. Note that parts of this circuit are arduous, so check your fitness to the difficulty rating before you go. Image credits—Briony Masters © Queensland Government