Visit the Natural Arch NP
on the Gold Coast

The main attraction of the Natural Arch NP is the remarkable geological feature of a waterfall flowing through the roof of a cave, creating a ‘natural bridge’.

This is a testament to the power and force of water eroding rock over millions of years, in a similar manner to which the erosion of the Tweed Volcano had such an impact on the Gold Coast-Tweed Valley geography.

The Natural Arch NP is part of the larger Springbrook National Park, and features an easy, scenic walk through the rainforest to reach the cave.

Thousands of tiny, brilliant glow-worms live in the cave, and the Natural Arch NP is open at nighttime for visitors to see the stunning effect.

Click here for a Queensland National Parks & Wildlife Service (QNP&WS) ‘big picture’ map of Springbrook NP . And here is a further QNP&WS map of the Natural Arch NP section of the NP.

The QNP&WS also provides description and details for most of the walking trails in the Springbrook NP, which is worth reading if you’re preparing for some bush walking.

Reference Sources

• Blanch, R, and Kean, V, Bushwalking in the Mount Warning Region, second edition published by Kingsclear Books, 1995.
• Daly, J & L, Take A Walk in Queensland’s National Parkspublished by Take A Walk, 1998.
• Queensland National Parks & Wildlife Service.

FAST FACTS

Cost

Access to National Parks is free.

Facilities

Wheelchair access to toilets, picnic areas, BBQs, water on tap, short walking trails, constructed lookouts. The nearest café is a 10-15 minute drive.

Wet Weather

Don’t let a bit of light rain scare you from bush walking - although ensure you have a change of clothing for when the walk is over, and take extra care of slippery rock surfaces. Walking in heavier rains is not recommended, for both safety and environmental considerations.

Operating Hours

This NP is open 24 hours a day, all year round.

Duration

Allow 30-60 minutes for the rainforest walk to the cave during daytime. Allow 60-90 minutes for an evening visit to see the glowworms in the cave (or even slightly longer in peak periods such as school holidays.

Handy Hints

- Read our handy hints for planning your rainforest trek. - Check out our practical safety tips for bush walkers. - Refer guidelines for how you can minimise your personal impact on the environment.

How To Get There

If self-driving, make your way to Nerang (Pacific Highway exit 69 from the north or exit TBA from the south). Then follow the Nerang-Murwillumbah Road for ~ 30 km. Or refer to tour operators who offer day trips to national parks.

Further Info

Queensland NP&WS Tel 07-5533 5147