Without a doubt, one of the prettiest areas in Springbrook National Park is the Natural Bridge section of the park. Natural Bridge is located just off the Nerang-Murwillumbah Road. It is about an hours drive from the M1 motorway, just south of Numinbah Valley.
HOW IT WAS FORMED
Natural Bridge was formed thousands of years ago when a deep cave formed behind a waterfall on Cave Creek. Over time a pool in the rocks was created by the tumbling water until the waters partially broke through the rock of the creek bed to flow into the large cave below. This created a perfect arch or bridge in the rock above. The water falling over the edge into the cave below is nothing short of spectacular.
The cave itself is home to thousands of glow worms which can be viewed at night. Glowworms are very delicate creatures so should be viewed with care. Never expose them to bright lights, cigarette smoke or insect repellent as these things can kill glow worms.
To access the cave there is a timber boardwalk plus numerous stairs. The easiest way to tackle this walk is in a clockwise direction, that way you are walking down the stairs rather than up them. Visitors to the area should note that swimming is prohibited in the caves pool as this can damage the delicate ecosystem of the creek.
ANCIENT RAINFOREST
The whole walk is around one kilometre long and will take around about an hour and winds its way through ancient rainforest. When you arrive back at the top of the waterfall you walk over the top of the cave area below – hence the name Natural Bridge. A viewing platform above the hole in the cave roof allows you to look down into it.
PICNIC SPOTS
Once you have finished exploring Natural Bridge there are some lovely spots where you can enjoy a picnic lunch. There are picnic tables and coin operated barbecues near the start of the Natural Bridge Walking Track. If you head back along the Nerang – Murwillumbah Road there are two picnic areas located right on the Nerang River. Bochow Park or the larger Numinbah Forest Reserve where you will find plenty of picnic tables, wood fired barbecues plus there is fairly flat access to the Nerang River if you want to swim.
If you’re not keen on a picnic, you will find a small cafe in the village of Numinbah.
Natural Bridge is the perfect spot for a day trip, with plenty of very pretty scenery along the way. It makes for a lovely day out at any time of year.
Make sure whenever you go bush walking, that you keep your safety in mind as well.
Listen in to their podcast episode https://allaroundoz.com.au/podcasts/travelling-and-working-around-australia/
We still havent gotten to the natural arch. Must get onto that!
Yes…definitely put it on your list Sandra. The whole of Springbrook National Park is gorgeous.
Oh my…this is beautiful…
It certainly is Jo…worth a weekend visit perhaps?
I love the rainforest that surrounds Natural Bridge and the strangler fig at the start of the walk down is so perfect for understanding how these trees form –
This walk has it all – shady vegetation, refreshing water and an amazing cave all in a km – can’t get much better than that! 😀
You are so right Linda plus it’s so close to the Gold Coast and Brisbane. Love our backyard!
I love the Natural Bridge and Springbrook areas. They are only about an hour from our place. I think we must be overdue for another visit there – thanks for the reminder 🙂 #TeamLovinLife
It’s always a great spot for a day out Lyndall. Beautiful scenery along the way too.
I didn’t even know it existed. It’s stunning!!!! #teamlovinlife
It sure is stunning. A great spot for a day out.
Wow, that water under the natural bridge. That is just gorgeous,
#TeamLovinLife
It is gorgeous. I will give you a guided tour next time you are up this way if you like!
Natural Bridge and the Numinbah Valley are one of my favourite Sunday drives on the Gold Coast. I remember jumping into the rockpool at Natural Bridge when I was younger and when it was legal! Lovely photos and yes it is a must see when visiting the GC. 🙂 “TeamLovinLife
It’s one of our favourite spots too. We love to take a run out there as it’s usually cooler than on the Coast.
We absolutely treasure our memories of this very special place, thank you for starting my day with such a wonderful reminder xxx
Glad I was able to bring a special memory to mind Tanya.