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OVERVIEW

This Gold Coast Hinterland area is the largest area of protected subtropical rainforest in the world, with sizeable areas of warm temperate rainforest and nearly all of Australia’s remaining cool temperate rainforest.

 

We start the trail in the Springbrook National Park, traversing a prehistoric landscape that links the World Heritage-listed Lamington and Springbrook plateaus. We have selected the most scenic Gold Coast walks through this unspoilt rainforest, presenting you with the most beautiful locations to bask, eat lunch and simply just relax.

 

With two guides to look after you on this Gold Coast Hinterland walk, there will be the opportunity to shorten some of the walking days if you so desire. The wonderfully unique lodgings make up an essential part of this incomparable journey.

Highlights

  • Massive Strangler Figs, ancient Antarctic Beech, Red Cedar, Rosewood and Booyong trees
  • Admire hundreds of different species of palms, vines, ferns and orchids
  • Pass cascading streams and towering waterfalls on tracks that crisscross creeks
  • Reach peaks of over 1100m with stunning views
  • Walk the volcano rim, do the Treetops walk and climb the huge Strangler Fig tower

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
GROUP GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
6 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate

Grade 3 – Moderate

Short, steep hill sections. Walks that are longer than 12km with varied terrain. A moderate active lifestyle and some walking experience is recommended.
PRICE FROM
$ 3525

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 1095

Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of a room when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.

per person

  • 30 + Years Experience

  • Eco Travel

  • Two Experienced Guides

  • Pack Free

CONTACT US
DOWNLOAD PDF
Departure Dates
Book now

MAP

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5
  • Day 6

DAY 1
FROM GOLD COAST TO SPRINGBROOK NATIONAL PARK AND PURLING BROOK FALLS

Begin your adventure with an 8:30am pick-up from a local hotel in Coolangatta, then journey into the Gold Coast hinterland. Travelling to Binna Burra, we stop at Springbrook National Park to walk the breathtaking Purling Brook Falls Circuit – a trail that takes you to a thundering waterfall, through lush rainforest, and across dramatic gorges. It’s the perfect start to a day filled with nature, fresh air, and unforgettable scenery. On the way to Binna Burra, we do short walks high on the plateau at various lookouts.

Walking: Easy / 5 km / 2 hrs

Meals: Lunch at a local cafe and three-course dinner at Binna Burra lodge restaurant.

Accommodation: Binna Burra in the Sky Lodges in rooms with ensuites

DAY 2
DAVES CIRCUIT & UPPER BALLUNJUI FALLS

Discover one of Lamington’s hidden gems on Dave’s Circuit, where winding rainforest trails lead past some of the largest trees in Australia and open out to the impressive Upper Ballunjui Falls, tumbling gracefully into the valley below. The walk showcases the best of Lamington’s natural beauty – towering giants, bird calls echoing through the canopy, and views that stop you in your tracks. After a day on the trail, the adventure doesn’t end – around Binna Burra accommodation, the night comes alive with the sound of the rainforest, from the calls of nocturnal birds and frogs to the chance of spotting gliders and possums under the stars.

Walking: Moderate / 18 km / 7 hrs / Shorter option available 13 km

Meals: Cooked breakfast at Binna Burra restaurant, walkers lunch and three-course dinner at Binna Burra restaurant

Accommodation: Binna Burra in the Sky Lodges in rooms with ensuites

DAY 3
LOWER BELLBIRD & LOWER BALLUNJUI FALLS + CAVES CIRCUIT

Today we will walk on the Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk and step into the heart of Lamington’s World Heritage rainforest and discover a trail where every turn reveals something extraordinary. Gentle forest paths lead you to the serene Lower Bellbird Falls, and the breathtaking plunge of Lower Ballunjui Falls, hidden deep within the wilderness. Along the way, explore dramatic caves and ancient rock overhangs that whisper stories of the park’s volcanic past. With stunning views across the Numinbah Valley, this circuit is the perfect mix of waterfalls, wonder, and wild beauty – an unforgettable adventure for those chasing Lamington’s magic.

Walking: Moderate / 19 km / 7 hrs / Shorter option available 10 km

Meals: Cooked breakfast at Binna Burra restaurant, walkers lunch and three-course dinner at Binna Burra restaurant

Accommodation: Binna Burra in the Sky Lodges in rooms with ensuites

DAY 4
BORDER TRACK WALK BINNA BURRA TO O'REILLY'S

Full day Lamington Traverse. Walk across the rainforest plateau on the Border Track to O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat – at 22 km it’s a long way but the route is reasonably flat and the going is easy. The track emerges from the subtropical rainforest at several panoramic escarpment lookouts along the way. The forest is a mysterious melting pot of fauna and flora and largely an untouched environment with new plants being found, classified and named even today. Outstanding bird life like the striking Regent Bowerbird and more than 160 species of other sub-tropical birds will keep everyone engrossed. Many of them are easy to see and unafraid of people.

Walking: Moderate to challenging / 22 km / 8 hrs / Shorter option available 10 km

Meals: Cooked breakfast at Binna Burra restaurant, walkers lunch and three-course a la carte dinner prepared by the chefs at O’Reilly’s

Accommodation: O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat in rooms with ensuites

DAY 5
BOX FOREST CIRCUIT & WALKS AT O’REILLY'S

Step back in time among the ancient Antarctic Beech trees of Gondwanaland on the lush Box Forest Circuit, where crystal-clear creeks, mossy rocks, and cascading waterfalls create a rainforest paradise. At O’Reilly’s, wander to the breathtaking Moran’s Falls Lookout and pass beneath the enchanting Wishing Tree, each walk revealing the magic and majesty of Lamington National Park. After a day immersed in nature, unwind in pure comfort – soak in the heated outdoor spa pool, surrounded by mountain air and sweeping view, the perfect finish to an unforgettable day.

Walking: Moderate / 19.5 km / 7 hrs / Shorter option available 8.5 km

Meals: Cooked buffet breakfast at O’Reilly’s restaurant, walkers lunch and three-course a la carte dinner prepared by the chefs at O’Reilly’s

Accommodation: O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat in rooms with ensuites

DAY 6
TREE TOPS WALK BACK TO GOLD COAST

After breakfast, there will be an opportunity to climb the giant fig tree and explore the different levels of the rainforest on the Tree Tops Walk before travelling back to the Gold Coast arriving around 1.00 pm.

Walking: Easy / 2 km / 1 hr

Meals: Cooked buffet breakfast at O’Reilly’s restaurant

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • 4 Star stays

  • ensuites

  • chef prepared meals

  • Epic Hiking

  • Genuine all inclusive pack free walking holiday
  • Hike the Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk
  • 2 engaging, knowledgeable and experienced guides
  • 5 nights’ comfortable ensuite accommodation
  • Chef prepared cooked breakfasts, two and three-course dinners and comprehensive walkers lunches
  • All transport from Coolangatta (Gold Coast), including all luggage transport
  • National Parks admission

ACCOMMODATION & DINING

OVERVIEW

You will be fully supported when walking these Gold Coast Hinterland hikes staying in two luxurious accommodations. The first is best described as 5-star luxury, the Sky Lodges at Binna Burra. The Sky Lodges have two or three bedrooms (each with their own ensuite bathroom) and large communal living areas which open up to a spacious decking area overlooking the Coomera & Numinbah Valleys. The rooms with the view will be allocated to the bookings that are received first. You can view a floor plan for the three-bedroom Sky Lodge here. Then it’s on to O’Reilly’s where we experience a different kind of luxury, in the form of a much more rustic feel but with similar incredible views

The dinners are three courses prepared by the chef at the lodge and retreat restaurants with a focus on local fresh organic produce. Every day you will wake to a cooked breakfast in the restaurant to ready yourself for the upcoming days’ walk. You’ll lunch at incredible locations. Indeed, the walkers lunches complete the circle ensuring that your appetite is always kept satisfied. Our walkers’ lunches are substantial; we provide you with your own insulated lunch bag and a silicone collapsible tub for your convenience. A walkers lunch may include a high protein type salad, a roll or a wrap, a muesli bar, cake or muffin and a piece of fruit. Each day is slightly different. Lunch is always augmented by trail mix.

Alcohol or drinks with meals are not included (except tea/coffee and juice with breakfast).

  • NIGHTS 1, 2 & 3

  • NIGHTS 4 & 5

FITNESS GUIDE

It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed.  Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.

The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.

ngraph

DISTANCE - ABOVE AVERAGE

Distance training is a major consideration in your overall training program. As you progress, incorporate longer walks into your training plan.

Schedule one or two long walks each week, gradually increasing the distance until you can comfortably cover 17-25 km in a single day. Also include walks on consecutive days to help your body adapt to the demands of walking for multiple days in a row. Take every opportunity you can to walk. If you have a fitness watch or phone, you should try to reach >15,000 steps every day.

Ensure you can comfortably walk the average distance per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

ELEVATION - ~AVERAGE

Elevation training should be a consideration in your overall training program.

Try to include some form of elevation in more than 40% of your walking and prioritise resistance training, whilst incorporating stairs anytime you can. Walking up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand or up and down small hills is incredibly useful. Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems, opposed to distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking.

Ensure you can comfortably walk the average elevation per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

UNEVEN TERRAIN

Preparation for hiking on uneven terrain demands a blend of physical and mental readiness.

Begin with balance-enhancing exercises, such as one-legged stands and stability ball workouts, laying a groundwork for stability and coordination. Strengthening the lower body is especially important, achieved through the incorporation of squats, lunges, and step-ups. Gradually increase the complexity of the terrain on which you walk, moving from gravel paths to rocky trails. Cultivate mindfulness during your practice, directing focused attention to both your immediate surroundings and precise foot placement.

The importance of suitable footwear cannot be overstated; prioritise options that offer robust support and reliable grip to navigate varying terrains with confidence. Build endurance through consistent hikes, progressively increasing distance and difficulty.

GENERAL INFO

The Gold Coast Hinterland walks we have handpicked including the Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk are mostly easily passable and for the most part, the tracks are well graded. There are some opportunities for keen walkers to challenge themselves but in the main, the walks are all moderate, bar the Border Track which is moderate to challenging. This trip operates with two knowledgeable engaging guides so we can offer easier and harder walk options along the way.

Pre and post-tour accommodation: There are many good hotels on the Gold Coast, however, we pick up and drop off at one central accommodation, Calypso Plaza, 99 Griffith Street. The tour starts at the Calypso at 8:30 am. We arrive at approximately 1:00 pm back to the Gold Coast.

For what to bring please refer to Gear Advice on our FAQ section.

WEATHER

We like the late winter/early spring months as there is low humidity and the temperature is usually very pleasant for walking. See the Bureau of Meteorology for information about temperatures and rainfall ahead of time to ensure proper clothing.

INSURANCE

We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.

For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.

We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office.  See the FAQ section for more information.

INFORMATION PACK

For over 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.

CONTACT

If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants or to speak with one of our guides. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, email us at connect@auswalk.com.au, or call us on +61 3 9597 9767.

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    PER PERSON
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 25 Jul 2026
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $3525

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $1095
    BOOK NOW
  • 1 Aug 2026
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $3525

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $1095
    BOOK NOW

REVIEWS

Customer Reviews

5

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  1. Toni S

    3 October, 2025 at 11:12 AM
    4

    The accommodation on this walk was fantastic. The map on the ap was great. The entire walk went very well.

    Reply

  2. Greg S

    8 September, 2025 at 1:00 PM
    5

    Thank you again Auswalk!Greg and myself thoroughly enjoyed our time trekking in the Gold Coast Hinterland Monday 28th July to Saturday 2nd August. On Thursday 31st July, walking from Binna Burra to O’Reillys was a memorable achievement for both of us. But whatever the day rewarding views and varied forest and bush environments were continuous, around every curve in the track.Lee was new to the walk, but had a broad knowledge of flora and fauna in general. And at all times a very quick, quirky sense of humour! Whatever our destination either by car or foot I always felt confident that Georgie, our hard working, efficient and experienced leader, would deliver us safely.We always look forward to the set of photos taken by leaders. They are much superior to our own!Thank you for organising the cake and song for my birthday. A little embarrassing but a nice touch!In appreciation as always

    Reply

  3. Cilla B

    26 August, 2025 at 12:03 PM
    5

    An opportunity to walk in World Heritage listed rainforest featuring ancient trees, spectacular waterfalls and rare birds. Accommodation at Binna Burra and Mouse’s House was a standout.

    Reply

  4. Anne T

    15 August, 2025 at 2:44 PM
    5

    The Gold Coast Hinterland is a marvelous locations for walking, offering great tracks and fantastic scenery with many waterfalls. I will be definitely looking at other trips with Auswalk in the future.

    Reply

  5. Caroline W

    13 August, 2025 at 12:58 PM
    5

    I was very happy with all aspects of my walk. Both guides, Lee and Georgie were delightful and excellent leaders. We all enjoyed their company and felt safe on all of the walks. I will definitely do another AUSWALK, but I’m. It sure which one yet.

    Reply

  6. Rhonda W

    13 August, 2025 at 11:42 AM
    5

    I had a fabulous time and would highly recommend it. The guides were excellent, both professional and approachable. It was my third one with Georgie and it great to meet Lee and I appreciated his humour.

    Reply

  7. Denise U

    10 September, 2024 at 11:16 PM
    5

    I have just completed the Gold Coast Hinterland 6 day guided Auswalk led by Katie and Georgie. It is a spectacular area, ancient, lush and green, waterfalls and streams , forest bathing at its best. The trails were not too difficult but multi day walking requires some stamina and the easy/ hard options were available each day. The accommodation is excellent. Our small group of 10 were all friendly and had similar fitness levels. We did encounter a lot of unseasonable rain which made for a slippery, muddy track but with the right rain gear and attitude it wasn’t too much of a problem. We saw one elusive dingo and we all became very practised at spotting and removing leeches. I can highly recommend this guided walk.

    Reply

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Overview

OVERVIEW

This Gold Coast Hinterland area is the largest area of protected subtropical rainforest in the world, with sizeable areas of warm temperate rainforest and nearly all of Australia’s remaining cool temperate rainforest.

 

We start the trail in the Springbrook National Park, traversing a prehistoric landscape that links the World Heritage-listed Lamington and Springbrook plateaus. We have selected the most scenic Gold Coast walks through this unspoilt rainforest, presenting you with the most beautiful locations to bask, eat lunch and simply just relax.

 

With two guides to look after you on this Gold Coast Hinterland walk, there will be the opportunity to shorten some of the walking days if you so desire. The wonderfully unique lodgings make up an essential part of this incomparable journey.

Highlights

  • Massive Strangler Figs, ancient Antarctic Beech, Red Cedar, Rosewood and Booyong trees
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  • Pass cascading streams and towering waterfalls on tracks that crisscross creeks
  • Reach peaks of over 1100m with stunning views
  • Walk the volcano rim, do the Treetops walk and climb the huge Strangler Fig tower

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
GROUP GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
6 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate

Grade 3 – Moderate

Short, steep hill sections. Walks that are longer than 12km with varied terrain. A moderate active lifestyle and some walking experience is recommended.
PRICE FROM
$ 3525

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 1095

Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of the accommodation when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.

per person

  • 30 + Years Experience

  • Eco Travel

  • Two Experienced Guides

  • Pack Free

CONTACT US
DOWNLOAD PDF
Departure Dates
Book now
Map

MAP

Itinerary

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5
  • Day 6

DAY 1
FROM GOLD COAST TO SPRINGBROOK NATIONAL PARK AND PURLING BROOK FALLS

Begin your adventure with an 8:30am pick-up from a local hotel in Coolangatta, then journey into the Gold Coast hinterland. Travelling to Binna Burra, we stop at Springbrook National Park to walk the breathtaking Purling Brook Falls Circuit – a trail that takes you to a thundering waterfall, through lush rainforest, and across dramatic gorges. It’s the perfect start to a day filled with nature, fresh air, and unforgettable scenery. On the way to Binna Burra, we do short walks high on the plateau at various lookouts.

Walking: Easy / 5 km / 2 hrs

Meals: Lunch at a local cafe and three-course dinner at Binna Burra lodge restaurant.

Accommodation: Binna Burra in the Sky Lodges in rooms with ensuites

DAY 2
DAVES CIRCUIT & UPPER BALLUNJUI FALLS

Discover one of Lamington’s hidden gems on Dave’s Circuit, where winding rainforest trails lead past some of the largest trees in Australia and open out to the impressive Upper Ballunjui Falls, tumbling gracefully into the valley below. The walk showcases the best of Lamington’s natural beauty – towering giants, bird calls echoing through the canopy, and views that stop you in your tracks. After a day on the trail, the adventure doesn’t end – around Binna Burra accommodation, the night comes alive with the sound of the rainforest, from the calls of nocturnal birds and frogs to the chance of spotting gliders and possums under the stars.

Walking: Moderate / 18 km / 7 hrs / Shorter option available 13 km

Meals: Cooked breakfast at Binna Burra restaurant, walkers lunch and three-course dinner at Binna Burra restaurant

Accommodation: Binna Burra in the Sky Lodges in rooms with ensuites

DAY 3
LOWER BELLBIRD & LOWER BALLUNJUI FALLS + CAVES CIRCUIT

Today we will walk on the Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk and step into the heart of Lamington’s World Heritage rainforest and discover a trail where every turn reveals something extraordinary. Gentle forest paths lead you to the serene Lower Bellbird Falls, and the breathtaking plunge of Lower Ballunjui Falls, hidden deep within the wilderness. Along the way, explore dramatic caves and ancient rock overhangs that whisper stories of the park’s volcanic past. With stunning views across the Numinbah Valley, this circuit is the perfect mix of waterfalls, wonder, and wild beauty – an unforgettable adventure for those chasing Lamington’s magic.

Walking: Moderate / 19 km / 7 hrs / Shorter option available 10 km

Meals: Cooked breakfast at Binna Burra restaurant, walkers lunch and three-course dinner at Binna Burra restaurant

Accommodation: Binna Burra in the Sky Lodges in rooms with ensuites

DAY 4
BORDER TRACK WALK BINNA BURRA TO O'REILLY'S

Full day Lamington Traverse. Walk across the rainforest plateau on the Border Track to O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat – at 22 km it’s a long way but the route is reasonably flat and the going is easy. The track emerges from the subtropical rainforest at several panoramic escarpment lookouts along the way. The forest is a mysterious melting pot of fauna and flora and largely an untouched environment with new plants being found, classified and named even today. Outstanding bird life like the striking Regent Bowerbird and more than 160 species of other sub-tropical birds will keep everyone engrossed. Many of them are easy to see and unafraid of people.

Walking: Moderate to challenging / 22 km / 8 hrs / Shorter option available 10 km

Meals: Cooked breakfast at Binna Burra restaurant, walkers lunch and three-course a la carte dinner prepared by the chefs at O’Reilly’s

Accommodation: O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat in rooms with ensuites

DAY 5
BOX FOREST CIRCUIT & WALKS AT O’REILLY'S

Step back in time among the ancient Antarctic Beech trees of Gondwanaland on the lush Box Forest Circuit, where crystal-clear creeks, mossy rocks, and cascading waterfalls create a rainforest paradise. At O’Reilly’s, wander to the breathtaking Moran’s Falls Lookout and pass beneath the enchanting Wishing Tree, each walk revealing the magic and majesty of Lamington National Park. After a day immersed in nature, unwind in pure comfort – soak in the heated outdoor spa pool, surrounded by mountain air and sweeping view, the perfect finish to an unforgettable day.

Walking: Moderate / 19.5 km / 7 hrs / Shorter option available 8.5 km

Meals: Cooked buffet breakfast at O’Reilly’s restaurant, walkers lunch and three-course a la carte dinner prepared by the chefs at O’Reilly’s

Accommodation: O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat in rooms with ensuites

DAY 6
TREE TOPS WALK BACK TO GOLD COAST

After breakfast, there will be an opportunity to climb the giant fig tree and explore the different levels of the rainforest on the Tree Tops Walk before travelling back to the Gold Coast arriving around 1.00 pm.

Walking: Easy / 2 km / 1 hr

Meals: Cooked buffet breakfast at O’Reilly’s restaurant

What’s Included

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • 4 Star stays

  • ensuites

  • chef prepared meals

  • Epic Hiking

  • Genuine all inclusive pack free walking holiday
  • Hike the Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk
  • 2 engaging, knowledgeable and experienced guides
  • 5 nights’ comfortable ensuite accommodation
  • Chef prepared cooked breakfasts, two and three-course dinners and comprehensive walkers lunches
  • All transport from Coolangatta (Gold Coast), including all luggage transport
  • National Parks admission
Accommodation & Dining

ACCOMMODATION & DINING

OVERVIEW

You will be fully supported when walking these Gold Coast Hinterland hikes staying in two luxurious accommodations. The first is best described as 5-star luxury, the Sky Lodges at Binna Burra. The Sky Lodges have two or three bedrooms (each with their own ensuite bathroom) and large communal living areas which open up to a spacious decking area overlooking the Coomera & Numinbah Valleys. The rooms with the view will be allocated to the bookings that are received first. You can view a floor plan for the three-bedroom Sky Lodge here. Then it’s on to O’Reilly’s where we experience a different kind of luxury, in the form of a much more rustic feel but with similar incredible views

The dinners are three courses prepared by the chef at the lodge and retreat restaurants with a focus on local fresh organic produce. Every day you will wake to a cooked breakfast in the restaurant to ready yourself for the upcoming days’ walk. You’ll lunch at incredible locations. Indeed, the walkers lunches complete the circle ensuring that your appetite is always kept satisfied. Our walkers’ lunches are substantial; we provide you with your own insulated lunch bag and a silicone collapsible tub for your convenience. A walkers lunch may include a high protein type salad, a roll or a wrap, a muesli bar, cake or muffin and a piece of fruit. Each day is slightly different. Lunch is always augmented by trail mix.

Alcohol or drinks with meals are not included (except tea/coffee and juice with breakfast).

  • NIGHTS 1, 2 & 3

  • NIGHTS 4 & 5

Fitness Guide

FITNESS GUIDE

It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed.  Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.

The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.

ngraph

DISTANCE - ABOVE AVERAGE

Distance training is a major consideration in your overall training program. As you progress, incorporate longer walks into your training plan.

Schedule one or two long walks each week, gradually increasing the distance until you can comfortably cover 17-25 km in a single day. Also include walks on consecutive days to help your body adapt to the demands of walking for multiple days in a row. Take every opportunity you can to walk. If you have a fitness watch or phone, you should try to reach >15,000 steps every day.

Ensure you can comfortably walk the average distance per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

ELEVATION - ~AVERAGE

Elevation training should be a consideration in your overall training program.

Try to include some form of elevation in more than 40% of your walking and prioritise resistance training, whilst incorporating stairs anytime you can. Walking up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand or up and down small hills is incredibly useful. Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems, opposed to distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking.

Ensure you can comfortably walk the average elevation per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

UNEVEN TERRAIN

Preparation for hiking on uneven terrain demands a blend of physical and mental readiness.

Begin with balance-enhancing exercises, such as one-legged stands and stability ball workouts, laying a groundwork for stability and coordination. Strengthening the lower body is especially important, achieved through the incorporation of squats, lunges, and step-ups. Gradually increase the complexity of the terrain on which you walk, moving from gravel paths to rocky trails. Cultivate mindfulness during your practice, directing focused attention to both your immediate surroundings and precise foot placement.

The importance of suitable footwear cannot be overstated; prioritise options that offer robust support and reliable grip to navigate varying terrains with confidence. Build endurance through consistent hikes, progressively increasing distance and difficulty.

General Info

GENERAL INFO

The Gold Coast Hinterland walks we have handpicked including the Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk are mostly easily passable and for the most part, the tracks are well graded. There are some opportunities for keen walkers to challenge themselves but in the main, the walks are all moderate, bar the Border Track which is moderate to challenging. This trip operates with two knowledgeable engaging guides so we can offer easier and harder walk options along the way.

Pre and post-tour accommodation: There are many good hotels on the Gold Coast, however, we pick up and drop off at one central accommodation, Calypso Plaza, 99 Griffith Street. The tour starts at the Calypso at 8:30 am. We arrive at approximately 1:00 pm back to the Gold Coast.

For what to bring please refer to Gear Advice on our FAQ section.

WEATHER

We like the late winter/early spring months as there is low humidity and the temperature is usually very pleasant for walking. See the Bureau of Meteorology for information about temperatures and rainfall ahead of time to ensure proper clothing.

INSURANCE

We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.

For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.

We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office.  See the FAQ section for more information.

INFORMATION PACK

For over 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.

CONTACT

If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants or to speak with one of our guides. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, email us at connect@auswalk.com.au, or call us on +61 3 9597 9767.

Departure Dates

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    PER PERSON
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 25 Jul 2026
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $3525

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $1095
    BOOK NOW
  • 1 Aug 2026
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $3525

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $1095
    BOOK NOW
Reviews

REVIEWS

Customer Reviews

5

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  1. Toni S

    3 October, 2025 at 11:12 AM
    4

    The accommodation on this walk was fantastic. The map on the ap was great. The entire walk went very well.

    Reply

  2. Greg S

    8 September, 2025 at 1:00 PM
    5

    Thank you again Auswalk!Greg and myself thoroughly enjoyed our time trekking in the Gold Coast Hinterland Monday 28th July to Saturday 2nd August. On Thursday 31st July, walking from Binna Burra to O’Reillys was a memorable achievement for both of us. But whatever the day rewarding views and varied forest and bush environments were continuous, around every curve in the track.Lee was new to the walk, but had a broad knowledge of flora and fauna in general. And at all times a very quick, quirky sense of humour! Whatever our destination either by car or foot I always felt confident that Georgie, our hard working, efficient and experienced leader, would deliver us safely.We always look forward to the set of photos taken by leaders. They are much superior to our own!Thank you for organising the cake and song for my birthday. A little embarrassing but a nice touch!In appreciation as always

    Reply

  3. Cilla B

    26 August, 2025 at 12:03 PM
    5

    An opportunity to walk in World Heritage listed rainforest featuring ancient trees, spectacular waterfalls and rare birds. Accommodation at Binna Burra and Mouse’s House was a standout.

    Reply

  4. Anne T

    15 August, 2025 at 2:44 PM
    5

    The Gold Coast Hinterland is a marvelous locations for walking, offering great tracks and fantastic scenery with many waterfalls. I will be definitely looking at other trips with Auswalk in the future.

    Reply

  5. Caroline W

    13 August, 2025 at 12:58 PM
    5

    I was very happy with all aspects of my walk. Both guides, Lee and Georgie were delightful and excellent leaders. We all enjoyed their company and felt safe on all of the walks. I will definitely do another AUSWALK, but I’m. It sure which one yet.

    Reply

  6. Rhonda W

    13 August, 2025 at 11:42 AM
    5

    I had a fabulous time and would highly recommend it. The guides were excellent, both professional and approachable. It was my third one with Georgie and it great to meet Lee and I appreciated his humour.

    Reply

  7. Denise U

    10 September, 2024 at 11:16 PM
    5

    I have just completed the Gold Coast Hinterland 6 day guided Auswalk led by Katie and Georgie. It is a spectacular area, ancient, lush and green, waterfalls and streams , forest bathing at its best. The trails were not too difficult but multi day walking requires some stamina and the easy/ hard options were available each day. The accommodation is excellent. Our small group of 10 were all friendly and had similar fitness levels. We did encounter a lot of unseasonable rain which made for a slippery, muddy track but with the right rain gear and attitude it wasn’t too much of a problem. We saw one elusive dingo and we all became very practised at spotting and removing leeches. I can highly recommend this guided walk.

    Reply
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