by Elise Graf
Photo by Elise Graf
If you have ever visited the Gold Coast on the Southeast coast of Queensland you will know that it is a fun, fast-paced and exciting city. Living on the Gold Coast since I was born has taught me to not only love the exciting features it holds; its beautiful beaches, hot summers and theme parks, but to also appreciate it’s unseen treasures; the places people don’t necessarily search for. If you are looking for something that the whole family can do without it costing you anything more than the petrol you use, taking a relaxing bush walk is just what you need. Hidden in the pocket of the Gold Coast is the beautiful area of Springbrook. With its natural beauty, it is a tourist attraction for those seeking green hills, waterfalls and rainforest walks. Springbrook National Park, located only 30 minutes out of the city, takes you to a whole new world outside the high-rise buildings, chaotic thoroughfares and traffic of the Gold Coast. It is comprised of four different sections on and around the plateau; the Springbrook section, which runs along the crest of the mountain; the Mount Cougal section to the east and Natural Bridge and Numinbah to the west. Among these four sections, visitors will find themselves enjoying the wildlife, lookouts, waterfalls, and hiking tracks.
Natural Bridge – Photo by Sue Aitchison
Whether you go during the day and hear the calls of the birds above or go during a beautiful summer’s night to see the glowworms work their magic, Natural Bridge is truly an incredible sight. Located to the west of the park, it is a naturally formed rock arch over Cave Creek. The water flows through the roof of the basalt cave and is something you don’t want to miss when you visit the park. The cave is full of glowworms and the commercial operators of the park offer night tours into the cave to see the beauty they hold.
If you wish to spend the night in the park, there is one campground called ‘The Settlement’, and camping here is a great way to prolong your stay in such a beautiful area. However, if you would just like something to take your mind off the busyness that city life brings, there are short, relaxing walks or even hiking tracks for the more experienced bush walkers.
Imagine being in a place where you feel relaxed, hearing nothing but the calls of the wildlife, the waterfalls and simply your feet hitting the ground. Whether you walk for a few hundred metres or hike over 6km, you will be taken to a whole new atmosphere as you experience the nature this park holds.
Author’s Bio: Elise Graf is an enthusiastic first year college student who is passionate about capturing life through her camera lens. She also loves singing like Beyonce and playing D-grade basketball.