Tamborine Mountain

If you’re ready to swap the beach towel for hiking boots and trade waves for waterfalls, Tamborine Mountain is calling. Just under an hour’s drive from Surfers Paradise, this lush, elevated escape feels like stepping into another world — cooler air, rainforest trails, wineries, and stunning views at every turn.

Here are the top hikes and tours worth making the trip for.

1. Curtis Falls Track

Time: ~30 minutes return
Level: Easy
Why Go: A short, shady walk through dense rainforest that leads to a beautiful waterfall — and if you're lucky, you might spot a glow worm or two.

Local tip: Go early morning for fewer crowds and better birdwatching.

2. Witches Falls Circuit

Time: 1 hour return
Level: Moderate
Why Go: This was Queensland’s first national park, and it still impresses. Think rocky stairs, tree roots, and lookout points over the valley. A bit more effort, but well worth it.

Fun fact: The name comes from the eerie mist that sometimes rolls through — not actual witches (we think).

3. Guided Wine & Distillery Tours

Okay, so not exactly a hike — but it’s a walk your tastebuds will remember. Tamborine is known for its boutique wineries, distilleries, and fudge shops. There are guided tours that pick you up from your hotel and take you from cellar door to cellar door. No hiking required — just sipping.

We recommend: Cedar Creek Estate or Tamborine Mountain Distillery for a fun tasting session.

4. The Skywalk Adventure

Time: 45 minutes – 1 hour
Type: Elevated boardwalk & forest floor trails
Why Go: Walk high among the treetops on steel bridges through the rainforest canopy. Safe, family-friendly, and perfect for photos.

Entry fees apply, but it's great for anyone wanting a nature experience without serious hiking.

5. Hang Glider Lookout (Just Stop and Stare)

Not a hike — just a must-see. Pull over at the Rotary Lookout or Hang Gliders Launch Site for sweeping views of the Scenic Rim and beyond. On a clear day, you can see forever. On a windier day, you might see hang gliders launching into the sky.

Bring a jacket — it’s cooler up here, especially in the late afternoon.

How to Get There from Surfers Paradise

• Drive: About 50–60 minutes from Surfers. The scenic drive up the mountain is part of the fun.
• No car? Book a guided Tamborine day tour — they handle transport, food, and stops for you.

Bonus: Don’t Miss Gallery Walk

Once you’ve worked up an appetite (or not), head to Gallery Walk — the mountain’s charming main street full of cafes, quirky shops, and homemade fudge stores. A perfect reward after a morning hike.