If you’re anything like me, you want to go out and explore all the hidden beauties of nature when you have some free time. But when you’re in a new country, where do you even start?! Here are my absolute favorite spots that I found when exploring Springbrook National Park, just over the Queensland border into New South Wales, Australia.
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Twin Falls Walk
This was an immensely beautiful hike that wasn’t at all too strenuous (with some occasional slopes) and offered the most breathtaking views. You get sights ranging from the top of a waterfall overlooking a forested canyon, giant rock arches, echoing caves, and then the grand finale of the Twin Falls viewing area.
As the name implies, there are two waterfalls spilling over a cliff edge into a new stream. We could even walk behind the falls and feel the mist spray on us. I would recommend packing a little picnic to eat at some of the tables right at the beginning of the hiking trail; that way, you’re all fueled up for the walk. Taking your time, it takes about two hours.
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The Best of All Lookout
The Best of All Lookout stays true to its name. This viewing area allows you to look over miles of the east coastline from such a uniquely elevated perspective. The walk to the lookout point is relatively short (about 10 minutes), but you pass ancient Antarctic beech forests that are remains of Gondwana or the old formations in the Southern hemisphere before the plate tectonics separated into Antarctica and Australia. Once on the lookout, you’re able to see an extinct volcanic crater and, on clear days, Byron Bay!
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Natural Bridge Glow Worms Cave
This is for sure the best way to end your day in Springbrook! The Natural Bridge is a cave that’s home to bioluminescent worms that give off a blue glow on the roof of the cave when it gets dark. It’s best to head there at dusk to get down to the cave before seeing the path gets difficult. The path is surrounded by luscious green rainforest with some of the largest trees I’ve ever seen.
Once you reach the Natural Bridge, you’ll be greeted by the sound of the waterfall spilling in through the top of the cave. If it’s dark enough, look up to see all the blue star-like spots above you. Make sure not to use the flash on your camera! It’s a beautiful, awe-inducing sight.
Walking back through the forest when it’s dark can be a bit of a challenge, so have a flashlight handy. The glow worms in the bushes give the forest an enchanted feel on your journey home!
Alex Dashner, University of Tampa, studied abroad in Australia with TEAN.
