Short and easy waterfall walks
Finally getting to travel after 3 years I set out to find the best waterfalls around the area close to Gold Coast and Brisbane in Australia. The best water falls worth seeing are Queen Mary Falls, Daggs Falls, Brown’s Falls, Curtis Falls and Cedar Creek Falls.
I was staying around Brisbane so the drive to get to Queen Mary Falls, Daggs Falls and Browns Falls, was 2 hours and 30 minutes usually but ended up being 3 hours due to a detour we had to take to get up the mountain because the road was closed.
Curtis Falls and Cedar Creek Falls I did on another day at Mt Tamborine which was 1 hour drive from Brisbane and Gold Coast.
A map of how close together Queen Mary Falls, Daggs Falls and Browns Falls, zoom out to see how close Brisbane and Gold Coast are to the waterfalls.
Queen Mary Falls
I did the 2km circuit track that took 1 hour to walk the whole track, including some stops to view the falls at the bottom. If you go to the right of the track it is an easy walk with no steps and there is a lookout, if you go to the left of the track there are steep steps going down.
It’s an easy to moderate walk down to the falls and back up to the picnic area. The whole walk is really shaded from the tall trees and at the bottom, the bridge near the waterfall gives you the best view looking up at the waterfall with no trees in your way. There is a lookout at the top with an amazing view looking straight down. The day I visited there was a steady flow of water because it had just rained. The best time to visit any waterfall is when it was just rained because there will be more flow of water but just be careful walking on the tracks due to mud and its more slippery.
The map below shows the path from Brisbane to Queen Mary Falls.
Queen Mary Falls is suitable for kids as it is an easy and short walk and is free. If you start at the right side of the track it is suitable for prams and wheelchairs but you will have to walk back the same way because there are steps on the left side of the circuit.
The map below shows the path from Gold Coast to Queen Mary Falls
There is the Queen Mary Caravan Park right opposite the carpark/picnic area that does takeaway food/drink and has a gift store. There are King Parrots that are super friendly and land on your arm and head. The picnic area has toilets, BBQ’s that are Electric/fuel barbecue (free of charge), picnic tables with seats. There are lots of shade under the eucalyptus forest which is perfect to get out of the extreme heat and catch up with family and friends.
For walks like these, I rely on Merrell Moab hiking boots, available for both men and women. Explore them on Amazon
This is the bridge that crosses over the river and joins the circuit track together. It is amazing seeing the waterfall up close and how big it is, with misty rain coming off the waterfall.
If you walk from the picnic area to the right track you will end up with this view from the lookout, or come up to this lookout from the bottom walking the circuit like I did.
I took these photos on an iPhone, if you want to get a similar look when you take your pictures then just switch Live mode on and hold still while you take the picture. Find the picture in photos and up the top left there is a drop down to change the mode to long exposure. Then you will get the same motion blur photo of the waterfall. Just make sure you hold still or it will be a blurring mess! Just remember to turn off Live mode so your next photos don’t end up being weird.
This is the view from the top lookout looking down at Queen Mary Falls. The best time to visit waterfalls in Queensland is over winter when it has rained but isn’t stinking hot and humid. I went up the at the end of July and first week of August.
I did the circuit walk so you get to walk along next to the river which is quite relaxing and enjoyable. I definitely recommend the circuit if you can manage the steps and some up-hill walking going back. These are just some more pictures I took along the path.
Daggs Falls
Daggs falls is a 10 metre walk from the carpark to the viewing platform, it is perfect for anyone. There is no walk down to get closer to the waterfall.
The view of Daggs Falls from the viewing platform.
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To get this streak look, I have a IPhone 12 in the camera area there is a Live button that when you select it, it takes a long exposure, when you go to view it in the photo gallery it will have this affect. Just remember to turn off the setting.
Browns Falls
Browns falls is a harder for access because when it has rained its hard to cross over the river because the path ends and access is on the other side of the river, the rocks and log are slippery so I didn’t attempt to cross over, but my family members were able to cross over safely. When there is less rain it would be easy to cross the river but there wouldn’t be much water at the waterfall.
This waterfall is not suitable for kids, prams or wheelchairs to walk to, but its the perfect place to stop for kids as there is a playground and toilet in the picnic area with tables and chairs.
The bridge at the start of Browns Falls walk that cross’s under the road.
This is the part where you have to cross the river to get to the other side because the track ends, it’s not easy to get to the other side because the rocks and log are slippery so be careful when crossing.
This is a picture of Brown’s Falls above.
To get this streak look, I have a IPhone 12 in the camera area there is a Live button that when you select it, it takes a long exposure, when you go to view it in the photo gallery it will have this affect. Just remember to turn off the setting.
I didn’t cross the river, so a family member took these photos. This is Browns Falls above and below.
In Australia, prolonged sun exposure can cause sunburn easily. Hence, I make sure to have a hat and sunscreen with me at all times. Find it here on Amazon hat, Amazon sunscreen.
Be careful when taking photos at Brown’s Falls because the rocks are slippery. The best time to see waterfalls are in Queensland winter, and when it has just rained because there will be more water flowing over the waterfall.
Curtis Falls
Curtis Falls is at Mt Tamborine, the walk to the waterfall is only 1.5km moderate walk. The carpark can fit a couple of buses as well as cars. It is the perfect short walk for anyone and is very popular. Most people stop in at The Pavilion that has a lovely garden setting before or after seeing the waterfall. Curtis Falls sits right next to the main road so see if you can spot it before entering. I was amazed with the waterfall at how much water was flowing over. There is no picnic area but there are toilets and rubbish bin outside the entrance.
This is a really good walk for kids because its short, easy and free but it can get really busy. No swimming at this one. Not suitable for prams and wheelchairs because there are lots of steps.
This is a photo of how far it is from Gold Coast by car.
The carpark is big enough for 20 or so cars, also room for buses on the left side with more parking back towards the street. There are also toilets toward the start of the walk and a cafe.
The toilets at Curtis Falls, they are small and only one toilet each for male and female.
I keep a reusable water bottle handy as I prefer not to purchase and discard plastic ones. There’s a water fountain located just outside the restrooms where you can easily refill your bottle. Find it here on Amazon
The start of the track that leads to the waterfall. The track to the falls, there are lots of steps half way through the track. Keep an eye out for a couple of amazing big trees. These steps aren’t as steep and are easy to walk down.
Finally at the waterfall there is a nice viewing platform with a great view of the falls.
Using the iPhone you can zoom as well and get a closer picture without sacrificing picture quality.
At the start of the walk there is food and drink available at the Pavilion cafe.
Cedar Creek Falls
Cedar Creek Falls is at the bottom of Mt Tamborine, close to Thunderbird Park. It is well signed you can’t miss the turn off from either way. There is a picnic area with BBQ’s and table and chairs. There is a lookout about 500 metres from the car park that is paved for easy access for wheelchairs and prams. Once you arrive at the lookout you can follow the track down weaving through rainforest to 3 rock pools.
This is a kid friendly walk that is easy and free, on a hot day its the perfect place to cool off in the rock pool.
This is suitable for prams and wheelchairs when you just go to the first lookout, after that there are lots of steps going down to the waterfall.
This is how far it is from Gold Coast by car.
A toilet block is located at the start of the walk. The walk is quite easy to the first viewing platforms and then goes into steps down to the rock pools, these are shown below.
Cedar Creek Falls from the top lookout, there are a few spots on the walk to take photos.
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Once you go down another lot of stairs and a track takes you to the rock pools where you can see another couple of falls.
Cedar Creek Falls from the bottom rock pool area, you can swim at this waterfall.
If you go down some more rocks to the right you will get another waterfall just past the rock pools. Just be careful as it can be slippery.
This backpack is ideal for walks to store water bottle, sunscreen and is lightweight. Check on Amazon
Another view of the creek and some more falls from the track.
Cedar Creek Falls at the bottom, I am standing on a big flat rock, its easy to walk around at the bottom, just be careful if the rocks are wet because they will be slippery.
My choice for destinations like this lookout? The versatile Sony DSC-HX99 compact camera. Boasting an 18.2 MP sensor and an impressive 24-720mm zoom range, it effortlessly captures wide landscapes and distant subjects. Its 4K video capability ensures stunning quality, and the touchpad offers intuitive control. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or a traveler seeking a feature-rich camera, the DSC-HX99 excels in delivering high-resolution imagery and videos. Explore it on Amazon for exceptional performance across different settings.
Packing suggestions for Best Waterfalls Around Gold Coast & Brisbane Australia
Sunscreen: With a potent SPF but without the oily sensation of other sunscreens, it’s a game-changer when you’re out in the sun, especially on those active, sunny days! Take a look here on… Amazon
A reliable Rain Jacket: North Face. It’s a must-have in our backpack! This North Face jacket ensures you stay dry while also feeling comfortably warm (unlike many others that can make you feel like you’re in a sauna). Find it here on… Amazon
Mosquitoes Spray: Ideal for repelling mosquitoes and other insects. Explore it on… Amazon
Day Pack: Osprey Talon 22: Ideal for walks to store water bottle, sunscreen and is lightweight. Check on Amazon
Hiking Boots: Merrell Moab: For men and women. Check them out on Amazon
Reusable water bottle: To steer clear of disposable plastic, take a look at them on… Amazon
Sunhat: Aqua Classic represents a technically refined, sun-protective swim fabric resistant to chlorine and saltwater, featuring a modest 4-way stretch. It’s lightweight, quick-drying, and exceptionally comfortable. Check them out on Amazon Amazon This one is waterproof and is for both women and men Amazon
Band Aid: I always carry a pack of band aid when walking for blisters and cuts. Check them out on Amazon
Nikon Coolpix P950 Camera: This camera is my go-to for capturing photos and shooting 4K videos of wildlife. Check them out on Amazon
Nikon Coolpix P950 Camera Bundle: This camera bundle includes Triple Battery + Deco Gear Backpack Bag Case + Filter Kit + Photo Video Software and Accessories, all with the same camera model. Check them out on Amazon
Compact Camera: The Sony DSC-HX99 is a versatile and powerful compact camera. With its 18.2 MP sensor and a remarkable 24-720mm zoom range, capturing both wide-angle landscapes and distant subjects is effortless. Its 4K video capability ensures stunning video quality, while the touchpad provides intuitive control. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or a traveler seeking a compact yet feature-rich camera, the DSC-HX99 delivers exceptional performance for capturing high-resolution images and videos in various settings. Check them out on Amazon
Binoculars: The MIQXUAS Night Vision Binoculars offer impressive performance for various activities like stargazing, bird watching, concerts, sports events, sightseeing, and hunting. With a 60X60 magnification power and a range of up to 10,000 meters, these binoculars deliver excellent clarity and detailed visuals. The waterproof design ensures durability and reliability in various weather conditions.
Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, these binoculars provide a clear view even in low-light environments. However, while they offer night vision capabilities, the quality might not match higher-end specialized night vision devices. The included carrying bag adds convenience for portability.
Overall, these binoculars are a solid choice for multiple outdoor activities, offering good value for their price point. Check them out on Amazon
First Aid Kit: This tool is ideal for extended hikes and overnight stays in the wilderness, equipped with a torch, camping knife, fire starter, light stick, wire saw, and a Paracord bracelet featuring a fire scrapper, whistle, and compass. Check them out on Amazon
First Aid Kit: I opt for this one during short hikes, as it’s smaller and fits more comfortably in my backpack. Check them out on Amazon
That’s the end of the this list, but if you are interested in walking and waterfalls then check out my other posts.
If you have any other suggestions on places to visit please leave comments below the post.
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