Cougal Cascades

Currumbin Valley

A part of Springbrook National Park, Cougal Cascades is home to a stunning waterfall and an easy, but beautiful, rainforest walk, suitable for all ages and abilities.

Located about 20 kilometres inland from Currumbin Beach, the drive through the Currumbin Valley is a little bit windy in places but very scenic if you’re lucky enough to be in the passenger’s seat.

Cougal Cascades Springbrook National Park Currumbin Valley

The 1.6 kilometre return walking track starts straight from the car park and is sealed the entire way. It’s slightly hilly in parts, but should be manageable for all fitness levels, as well as assisted wheelchair users and families with strollers.

Cougal Cascades Springbrook National Park Currumbin Valley

Although relatively short in distance, the walk packs a punch in terms of beauty, winding through subtropical rainforest alongside the gently flowing Currumbin Creek. There’s also an array of bird and animal life living here, including kookaburras, whipbirds and the land mullet (which is really a lizard).

Cougal Cascades Springbrook National Park Currumbin Valley

About 500 metres in you'll be greeted by the actual Cougal Cascades, plunging spectacularly down the cliff face into a large pool below. If you're relatively agile it is possible to climb down to the swimming hole for a dip in the clean, crisp water, however, it's just as nice observing it from afar via the wooden viewing platform.

Cougal Cascades Springbrook National Park Currumbin Valley

Keep walking 300 more metres and you'll come across an interesting piece of history in the form of a disused 1940s-era sawmill. Partially restored, the remains tell the story of a time when forests were only valued for their timber. Fortunately, times have changed.

If you are wanting to explore the creek and its many rock pools, the turnaround point of the track is probably the easiest and safest point to do so. However, if you’re seeking an easily-accessible swimming hole for all ages, then it’s worth visiting the Currumbin Rock Pools, five minutes back down the road.

Cougal Cascades sits at the very end of Currumbin Creek Road in the Currumbin Valley. The sealed car park is also home to toilet facilities and a couple of picnic tables.

By Dominique Falk

End Currumbin Creek Rd

Currumbin Valley

Map

Cougal Cascades Currumbin Creek Rd Currumbin Valley

Top Things To Do In Brisbane This Week

An electrifying night combining urban style and innovation, live performances
Get into the festive spirit this month at Eat Street Northshore
Watch the Lord Mayor’s Christmas Carols for free at Victoria Park
Is That You, Ruthie? is a poignant masterpiece
Still life takes on new life at Museum of Brisbane
A true celebration for the senses
This radiant production of Verdi's Aida is a visual & musical feast
An all-ages singing, dancing, magic, circus show spectacular is
The Tallest Man On Earth will captivate audiences
EDITOR'S PICK

Christmas Gift Guide 2023

When it comes to finding unique Christmas gifts, this guide has it covered, from personalised plates and must-do experiences to tickets to must-see shows and
Christmas Gift Guide 2023
MUST DO

Sneakers Unboxed: Studio to Street

First unveiled by The Design Museum, London, the stunning exhibition is showing exclusively at contemporary cultural precinct HOTA
Sneakers Unboxed: Studio to Street
FREE

Lord Mayor's Christmas Carols

For the first time ever, the Lord Mayor’s Christmas Carols will be streamed live from Riverstage to Victoria Park for free
Lord Mayor's Christmas Carols
COMING UP

What's on in December in & around Brisbane

From concerts, Christmas shows and markets to festive dining and blockbuster summer exhibitions, what's on in December 2023 in and around Brisbane
What's On in December 2023 around Brisbane
KIDS

December School Holiday Guide

Looking for fun things to do with the kids this December? From Christmas Putt Putt to fantastic kids shows & activities
December School Holiday Guide 2023
MUST SEE

Government House Christmas Lights

Christmas Lights are back on at Government House with a spectacular display that is open to the public nightly for free
Government House Christmas Lights
COMING UP

Pacific Fair Magic Millions Polo & Showjumping

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Gold Coast, enjoy a sensational day of equestrian excellence and family-friendly festivities
Pacific Fair Magic Millions Polo & Showjumping
ESCAPE

The Brooklet

Experience the ultimate in luxury at the newest boutique accommodation in the Byron Bay Hinterland
The Brooklet
HOLIDAY SHOW

The Smeds and the Smoos

Soar into space these school holidays with this joyful tale of star-crossed aliens, based on the award-winning picture book
The Smeds and the Smoos
MUST SEE

The Sleeping Beauty

Enter the magical world of Ballet Theatre Queensland’s new production of The Sleeping Beauty this January
The Sleeping Beauty
Andy Griffiths' blockbuster show returns to Brisbane
CONTENT RESUMES ON SCROLL
ADVERTISEMENT