On entering the rainforest in Tamborine National Park, take the right-hand fork and head down to Curtis Falls. A viewing platform in the forest is a good place to stop and listen to the birds or rest on your way back. See strangler figs and giant stinging trees. From the large rock pool at the base of the falls see the huge basalt columns, a legacy of the regions volcanic history. Look for basking turtles on fallen logs and see fish and eels in the rock pool. If you're lucky you might see the local platypus. At night, look for glow-worms in the surrounding cliffs.
Towering 560 metres high, this park is a green oasis, offering glimpses of the Pacific Ocean and Gold Coast skyline to the east and national parks of the Scenic Rim to the west. The park includes Witches Falls (which in 1908 became Queensland's first national park) and Cedar Grove, The Knoll and Palm Grove sections. The mountain features basalt columns, cliffs, rocky outcrops, numerous waterfalls and lush rainforest. It is also home to the rare Albert's lyrebird and shining burrawang. Explore some of the park's nine walking tracks that lead to scenic views, beautiful waterfalls, forests of large red cedars and groves of tall piccabeen palms. At Curtis Falls, sit quietly in the early morning or late afternoon for a chance to spot a platypus. Enjoy a picnic at The Knoll or Witches Falls. Catch a glimpse of the near threatened Albert's lyrebird or hear it mimicking calls of other birds, particularly during the winter months.