One of the many perks of living in Brisbane is that we’re a short drive from some of Australia’s most spectacular waterfalls, hiking trails, and swimming holes. Engulfed in the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforest, Lamington National Park is home to over 500 waterfalls. You can spot more than nine of its most breathtaking along the lesser-walked Coomera Circuit.
Coomera Circuit
This 17-kilometre loop track starts from Binna Burra’s upper-day use area, taking you past the picturesque Coomera Gorge and a series of stunning waterfalls.
Some impressive waterfalls to look out for are Coomera Falls, Ungurungbano Falls, Bahnamboola Falls, Kagoonya Falls, Gwongarrong Falls, Moolgoolong Falls, Chigigunya Falls, Neerigomindalala Falls, and Goorowa Falls.
We recommend starting your hike early, as it’ll take most of the day to complete: the trek takes about 7 hours, not taking into account all the photo and swimming opportunities along the way, or any stops you might make to snack or rest.
While the track is relatively easy to navigate, it’s always good to load it on a GPS navigation app like AllTrails in case you take a wrong turn.
If you need motivation to get you going, you can find a lookout for the gorgeous Coomera Falls about 5.5 kilometres from the trailhead, where you’ll get a spectacular view of the swift Coomera River crashing down into Coomera Gorge.
Just a little ways after Coomera Falls, you’ll come across the smaller but picturesque Ungurungbano Falls, formed by an unnamed creek dropping into the same river. Similar in size, the Bahnamboola Falls is one of the most photogenic ones around, with its sheer drop and deep pool.
Thanks to the contrast between its gushing water and the dark rocks it cascades down, Kagoonya Falls, with its lush rainforest surroundings, will no doubt make you stop for pictures. If what you’re looking for is sheer power, though, Gwongarrong Falls is bound to impress as well. Switching gears, Moolgoolong Falls might be just the respite you’re looking for on this long hike, with its tranquil pool offering a perfect spot for a break, as do Chigigunya Falls.
A meandering waterfall that flows in segments over rocks, past ferns and rainforest vegetation, Neerigomindalala Falls will be your sign that the journey’s coming to an end, as is the case with lesser-known Goorowa Falls.
You’ll also come across several creek crossings on the Coomera Circuit, so be prepared for your feet to get wet. These creek crossings could get pretty high after prolonged heavy rainfall, so be sure to factor this in before your journey.
How to get to Coomera Circuit — and what to pack
Binna Burra’s upper-day use area is around a 1.5-hour drive from Brisbane. Pack food for the day, plenty of water, and wear waterproof shoes sprayed with insect repellent to deter leeches.
For more information on Coomera Circuit, head to the Queensland Parks website.
Happy adventuring!