How to Hike in Mount Tamborine

How to Hike in Mount Tamborine
Photo Credit hiking image by Galyna Andrushko from Fotolia.com

Mount Tamborine is located on Australia's Gold Coast, about 1 hour away from Brisbane. At its tallest point, Mount Tamborine is 1,968 feet above sea level. Because the area doesn't experience any temperature extremes, it's a good destination for hiking year around. A variety of animals make Mount Tamborine their home. Birdwatchers and wildlife aficionados will find king parrots, magpies, wild turkeys and possums. Those with good eyesight should be able to spot koalas up on the trees as well.

Step 1

Choose your preferred walking trail. Most trails on Mount Tamborine are short and can be completed, round trip, in a few hours. The difference among trails is their difficulty. For example, Cedar Creek Falls track has an easy steep and is fine for even beginner hikers. On the other hand, the Curtis Falls, Joalah section, is longer and sharper and includes steep stairs. The park's visitor center has trail maps available.

Step 2

Take the mountain's longest trail, the Witches Falls Circuit, if you have at least 1 hour for your hike. This 1.9-mile trail starts at the picnic area near the main road. The trail zigzags down the mountain to reach a number of seasonal lagoons and then cuts through the forest. According to the official Tamborine Mountain Chamber of Commerce website, this is an ideal trail to explore after heavy rain, as that's when the lagoons fill up and the local fauna arrives.

Step 3

Pack a bag of essentials. Water is a must, as the water on the mountain is not suitable for drinking. Bring a hat and sunscreen, even on cloudy days, as there's little shade and you might end up with a sunburn. The official Mount Tamborine Accommodation website recommends dressing in layers, as weather can change abruptly while on the mountain.

Step 4

Bring a picnic. Tables, shelter and areas to hold barbecues are available throughout the park, including at the Sandy Creek Circuit and the Cedar Creek Falls track. No trash cans are available on the trails themselves, so if you plan on bringing snacks along, make sure you have garbage bags to take wrappers and other trash back with you.

Things You'll Need

  • Trail map
  • Water
  • Sunscreen
  • Hat
  • Food
  • Plastic bags

References

Article reviewed by DonaldM Last updated on: Sep 14, 2010

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