Pages Pinnacle
Gold Coast
Numinbah State Forest
KEY INFO
Distance (kms):
5.9 kms
Time (hrs):
Allow 2.5 hrs
Elevation gain (m):
316 m
Max. elevation (m):
395 m
Difficulty (Grade):
Hard (Grade 4)
Route type:
Out-and-back
Traffic:
Moderate
Access:
2WD Sufficient
Click to see full image.
A steep and unforgiving hike up a series of fire trails to one of the most spectacular viewpoints in South-East Queensland, overlooking Hinze Dam.
This moderately trafficked hike starts from a small car park on Pine Creek Road in Springbrook (near the Numinbah Scouts Camp Site).
From the car park, take the gate to the far right (with the pedestrian access point beside it). Follow the fire trail until a four-way junction and turn right.
Continue along the fire trail, crossing a rocky creek bed (typically dry). At the T-junction turn right again, and then shortly after at the next junction take the left up the hill.
The track is then a steady climb up the fire trail. You will pass a ‘Do Not Climb’ sign on your left which goes to the base of the Pinnacle. Keep going on the main fire trail until you see the infamous PP tree on your left, with a number of markings (PP, arrow) and a rock cairn.
The tree is roughly at the 2.2 km mark, and no more markings should be placed on this tree or any other.
From the tree, there is a distinguishable path that leads a few hundred metres through open eucalypt bush to the start of the razorback ridge.
The ridge is somewhat exposed in places and may test those with a fear of heights or who are uneasy or not competent with rock scrambling. Those confident with rock scrambling should have few issues but should still be careful.
There are a number of vantage points to Hinze Dam, with a prominent ledge the most popular place to take in the views.
The summit is worth a visit for some additional views of the dam, however involves a little more bush-bashing given the overgrown nature of the path.
Don’t forget to look southwest from the ridge back toward Binna Burra, with amazing views of Kurraragin (Egg Rock) and Yowgurrabah (Turtle Rock).
To return, simply retrace your steps.
Track: The majority of the hike is along well-maintained fire trails, with a distinguishable path from the fire trail to the razorback ridge. The ridge has paths in places but is rocky in other places. The track is unsigned and some basic navigation skills are recommended.
Difficulty: The circuit is steep and unforgiving, but relatively short. A moderate degree of fitness is recommended. The razorback ridge is somewhat exposed in places. Rock scrambling skills are recommended. It is not advised to do the hike during or after rain or if rain is imminently forecast.
Direction: This is an out-and-back track that returns the way it came.
getting there
The trail starts from a small car park on Pine Creek Road in Springbrook (near the Numinbah Scouts Camping Area), 1 hour drive south of Brisbane.
The car park is relatively small and can become very busy on weekends.
best time to go
The walk can be completed year-round. The ridge is very exposed to the sun so is not recommended during the hotter parts of the day. It is not advised to do the hike during or after rain or if rain is imminently forecast.
Remember, whenever venturing into the outdoors, practice the Leave No Trace principles and be considerate of others. This means: dispose of your waste properly, don't remove things or move things from their natural position and respect all wildlife. Also be sure to plan ahead and adequately prepare for any adventure.
I respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which all activities listed on this website are found, as well as Elders past, present and emerging. I strive to not promote sites where requests have been made for people not to explore due to the cultural significance of the site to Indigenous peoples, or note how to respectfully visit a site. If I have a promoted a site with cultural significance, please send me a message and let me know.