6 Breathtaking Rainforest Walks in Australia

Did you know that Australia is home to more than 3.6 million hectares of rainforest? Check out this post for a guide to some of the best rainforest walks in Australia!

---

Australia is full of numerous rainforests stretching across the country. There are tropical, subtropical, and cool wet temperate rainforests – if you want to experience the rainforest in Australia, you will surely be lost for choice.

There are so many destinations but the choice becomes easier once you decide that walking is your chosen means. While you can explore the Australian rainforests on 4WD vehicles, mountain biking, or any other means, walking is by far the most satisfying method. You will interact one on one with the rich flora and fauna and you can go even where cars cannot fit.

Where can you find the best rainforest walks in Australia? The answer is simple: everywhere! Deep inside most of Australia’s rainforests are beautiful paths you can follow and be one with nature.

Sound amazing? If so, make sure to add at least one of these 6 breathtaking rainforest walks in Australia to your itinerary!

A World in Reach contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may receive a commission at no cost to you! Read my full disclosure here.

1. Rainforest Walks in Australia: Grand Canyon Walk

Located near Blackheath in Sydney, this 6-kilometer loop treats you with exquisite views, beautiful plants, and breathtaking waterfalls. This track has been around for over 100 years. It is a nice mix of stepping stones and some muddy areas taking you through this world heritage listed area.

Located in the Blue Mountains, this rainforest is temperate with many eucalyptus trees. You will also see many other kinds of tall trees while ferns will be kissing your feet as you walk along the trail. You can start from the bottom and finish at the Evans Lookout or do vice versa. Either way, enjoy the beautiful greenery and make stops along the way to appreciate the waterfalls and gorgeous scenery.

The Grand Canyon Walk can be completed in a day. If you want to stay overnight near the trail, consider looking at places to stay in the Blue Mountains. You will find several options including camping spots, hotel rooms and self-contained cottages in the Blue Mountains. Choose what suits you best and get enough rest as you prepare for your hike.

2. Minyon Falls Walking Track

Located within the Nightcap National Park, the Minyon Falls Walking Track takes you to a beautiful waterfall. Start with the Minyon Falls Lookout and soak in the great views. With that motivation, start the descent and remember to enjoy every step. You will see lots of refreshing greenery. The trail is both challenging and refreshing.

When you get to Repentance Creek, look for the brush box trees located on the west. What a sight! Now, go on and soon you will find the beautiful Minyon Falls. The falls are over 100 meters tall descending over rhyolite cliffs. Take some time to enjoy this site and snap some photos for memories. If you are the daring kind, dive right in and cool off with a refreshing swim in the pool just next to the falls.

You will be done with this 8-kilometer hike in about four hours. Relax and have lunch at the Minyon Grass Picnic Area as you enjoy the scenic views. Click here to book a full-day tour.

3. Natural Bridge – Australia Rainforest Walks

Located at the western side of Springbrook National Park, Natural Bridge is made up of a unique rock formation that has been formed by the force of the nearby waterfall. On this walk, you can expect to see century-old trees, picture-perfect falls, and several animals.

This circuit is only 1-kilometer long and is therefore ideal for families. You will come across Cave Creek and the curved cave whose entrance is laced by a waterfall. The view from inside is really beautiful. Along the way, have a look at the trees. Take a moment and pay respect to the pines that are believed to have grown even in the Jurassic period. You will be looking at something that was there over 180 million years ago. How awesome!

Some animals you can meet while on this circuit include pademelons, colorful birds, and skinks. If you stay awhile and nighttime finds you at the cave you will be in for a treat. Glowworms will put on a fantastic show for you. There are thousands of them illuminating the cave with their green lights. Take your time to enjoy this rare moment and rest easy knowing you can spend the night at any of the nearby campsites. Limited on time? Consider taking a half-day tour of Natural Bridge and Sprinbrook National Park.

4. Daintree Discovery Center

The Daintree Rainforest is the oldest rainforest in Australia, estimated to be around 180 million years old. The Daintree Discovery Centre aims to educate people about this rainforest. It is located in Queensland near the cities of Port Douglas and Cairns and is a perfect spot for a weekend trip. You will need to cross the Daintree River to get to the Discovery Centre.

At the Daintree Discovery Centre, there is an aerial walkway that puts you at the top of the rainforest. Walk across and see just how rich this forest is. The diverse trees in this forest each have their unique features. As you walk towards the end of the walkway you will be met by the Canopy Tower. The tower is 23 meters high and has five viewing platforms on which you can see more of the Daintree. Soak the beautiful views in and enjoy the top-of-a-tree feeling when you get to the very top. From here, you can see the vast forest – you might even be able to spot some animals.

As for trekking, you can walk down the Bush Tucker Trail. This is trailed by rainforest plants and you will even see replicas of animals that lived in the Jurassic period. Walking this trail is like taking a step back in time. You are definitely in for a treat with this visit.

READ MORE: The Best Weekend Trips in Australia

5. Minnamura Rainforest Centre

The Minnamura Rainforest Centre is located in the Budderoo National Park – this really is the center of rainforests. It is filled with thick greenery that will awe you. The vines of the rainforest trees are a sight to behold. You will also see native orchids and ferns among other trees. Lyrebirds, kin parrots, and other birds have made the trees home while creatures that live in the ground can also be spotted. Be on the lookout for platypuses and diamond pythons.

The trail is not difficult, but it is not too easy either. The high canopy provides the shade you need. To get the most of the Minnamurra Rainforest Center, combine the Falls Walk and the Rainforest Loop Walk.

The Rainforest Loop Walk is an elevated walkway that takes you through the rainforest so you can see what is deep inside. There are several viewing platforms and signs to make your walk fun and educational. Look out for birds flying in the trees. As you move along you will get to the Falls Walk that leads to the beautiful Minnamurra Waterfalls.

From the platform, you get breathtaking views of these two-tiered waterfalls. These fall on moss-covered rocks while birds and butterflies fly around creating a calming and relaxing environment. To get a closer look at the waterfalls, you can get off the platform and walk up the rocky path. However, the bottom of the second tier has been inaccessible since 1989 when a landslide cut it off.

6. Brindle Creek Walk

The Brindle Creek Walk is a 6.9 kilometer walk located near the Border Ranges. It is in the middle of a thick rainforest that has a wide variety of trees. You will also see amazing waterfalls, picture-perfect picnic sites, and swimming spots. The area is a bit rocky and a shoe with a good grip will go a long way. Use this hiking checklist to make sure you have everything else you need.

The Brindle Creek Walk begins at the Brindle Creek Car Park. Leave your car here and start your journey. Look at just how thick the forest is – there is a lot of overgrowth with some plants growing on top of others. Look out for the Helmholtzia Loop that is filled with the Helmholtzia lilies. You will also see the beech trees that are covered by ferns and lichens. This rainforest is very moist and you may even find mist covering the area.

Waterfall lovers will be happy to know that there are two waterfalls along this trail. One is the Evans Falls that is not only beautiful but also has an inviting swimming hole at its bottom. As you go further, you will arrive at Selva Falls. While here, enjoy the site of water caressing moss-covered boulders. Take a breath, close your eyes, and listen to the sound of the falling water. How refreshing?

Australia’s Best Rainforest Walks

The rainforest is one of the most diverse ecosystems. These forests are filled with diverse trees and animals living together in harmony. You can experience this first hand by visiting one of the many rainforests located in Australia.

When planning your Australia itinerary, set aside a day and take a walk along a rainforest trail. By the time you are done, you will want to check out other nearby trails. Plan a trip today and enjoy the fresh air outdoors, the excitement of water slamming on rocks at waterfalls and the calming effect of the picturesque landscape out there.

About the Author: Monica is a passionate traveler and content creator. Her interests include outdoor activities, fitness, technology, entrepreneurship, and everything in between. Follow her on Twitter.