Witches Falls Circuit
Scenic Rim
Tamborine National Park
Zigzag down the mountainside into the open forest to Witches Falls lookout, before descending further past seasonal lagoons and groves of piccabeen palms.
This moderately trafficked, well-marked trail in the Witches Falls Section of Tamborine National Park starts at the car park off of Main Western Drive.
Interestingly, it is the site of the first national park in Queensland, proclaimed on 28 March 1908.
The track zigzags down the mountainside before a short side-track to a constructed viewing platform at the top of Witches Falls.
While the falls are typically only a trickle unless there has been substantial recent rain, the views over Canungra Valley towards Lamington National Park are very nice.
The Witches Chase track, which passes through rainforest dotted with red cedar and eucalypts, can be added, this is an out-and-back track that adds 2.6 kms of distance. Otherwise, backtrack to the junction and continue along the Witches Falls Circuit.
The circuit continues down through the forest, passing a seasonal lagoon, large groves of piccabeen palms and giant strangler figs, before ascending up the mountainside via gradual switchbacks.
A visit to Rotary Lookout, a short drive south along Main Western Drive, is a must, particularly on a clear day, with uninterrupted views out over the Scenic Rim and a popular launching spot for hang gliders and paragliders.
Track: Graded and well-signed, with railings at the Witches Falls lookout. The track is easy to follow. The descent and ascent into and out of the forest is gradual.
Difficulty: The track is suitable for all fitness levels.
Direction: While the track can be completed in either direction, anti-clockwise is recommended.
getting there
The trail starts from the car park area off of Main Western Drive in Tamborine Mountain (between the cemetery and Rotary Lookout), 1 hour drive south of Brisbane.
Parking is ample, however the walk can be very busy, especially on weekends, so it can fill up.
best time to go
The walk can be completed year-round.
An early start on a weekend or a weekday visit is advised.
This walk is best done after recent rain, in order to see water flowing through Witches Falls and in the seasonal lagoon, however is a pleasant walk at any time. If completing after recent rain, be sure to check the Queensland Parks website for updates regarding flooding and track closures.
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.
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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.