Goomoolahra Falls & Picnic Area

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Springbrook National Park is a truly special place. There is so much to see and so many great hikes that it would be hard to write about them all. I find that hiking and picnics are activities that help ground my children (pardon the pun) and give them a greater perspective on the importance of looking after our planet. I am proud of how interested my kids are in environmental care, and in the many birds and animals that call the National Park home.


Goomoolahra is an Aboriginal word meaning big waterfall. It is located at the end of Springbrook road so if you drive this strip until you can drive no more, you are there. There are toilets, picnic tables, shelter from the elements, a lookout platform, tadpoles in the creek and excellent spots for some happy photo snapping. The Goomoolahra Falls is an easy 200m walk from the car park and is both wheelchair and pram friendly. Mundora Creek flows beside the walk and the view out over Springbrook National Park is breathtaking.


You can combine this destination with other longer hikes in the area (there are many to choose from) or set out to picnic and relax in this area. There is a cafe directly opposite the car park which serves hot chips, cakes, drinks and coffee, but I would still recommend taking your own food. The area is kept remarkably clean and is usually quiet. We have been there with a maximum of two other families and there is enough space that each of us didn't really know the others were there. My kids enjoyed a day of racing leaves down the creek, searching for native animals, trying to spot birds, watching tadpoles for what seemed like hours, and sitting on a moss-covered rock in the afternoon sun enjoying each other's company. Kids really don't need a lot to make them shine. Mine need food, company, preferably a water location, and enough space to run around.


The information board that greets you in the car park at this location is very informative. The Falls themselves are spectacular and well protected from harm by barricading. You can get a great look at The Falls if you walk around to the second lookout as the first one is literally right on top of them and better served for looking out across the rainforest. Insect repellent, sunscreen, hats, food and water, baby wipes to wipe down the tables, and a commitment to switch off from your mobile are required.


Pack some fruit and sandwiches, take a no-fuss approach, grab your hiking shoes, and throw the kids in the car for a picnic at Goomoolahra Falls.

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#picnic_spots
#family
#outdoor
#kids

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