Adventures of Pamela and Dave: Natural Bridge

The view from inside the cave at Natural Bridge

The Gold Coast of Australia is famous for many things including seemingly endless stretches of golden beaches, theme parks galore, second to none fishing and boating, non-stop nightlife and lavish hotels. What many people don’t know is that the Gold Coast region is home to amazing sub-tropical rainforests and beautiful mountainous regions and valleys where you can escape the crowds at the beach or theme park and still enjoy a great day outdoors.

Our three nephews, ages 2.5, 7 and 8, and their mom were visiting so we needed an activity the whole family could enjoy. Extreme trekking was out and we had already done enough shopping for one weelks time. We looked through the tourist magazines and decided to visit a place called Natural Bridge in the Springbrook National Park. Located about an hours’ drive from Surfers Paradise is where you’ll find this family friendly outdoor paradise. The drive itself is almost worth the trip, you’ll go through some amazing countryside, truly indicative of country Australia, where small towns and large farms dominate the landscape.

Pamela proves you're never too old for rope swings

Pulling into the empty parking lot on a weekday afternoon we were soon off on the well signposted one kilometer track. Along the way we marveled at the sheer size of the magnificent trees and varied collection of flora. This area is part of the Gondwana Rainforest World Heritage Area and we certainly saw why as we were soon immersed in the rainforest. Along the way there are many signs detailing different plant species of the rainforest. Also along the way are the many Tarzan type vines which were great fun for kids both young and old. The track drops down into a small valley, crosses a creek via a wooden bridge and then climbs back up to the actual Natural Bridge formation.

Quickly scurrying ahead I saw my first glimpse of the Natural Bridge formation and was very impressed. The photos I had seen didn’t really do this cave with a waterfall coming down through the middle of it justice. By themselves the cave would be awesome and the waterfall awesome, put them together and you’ve got a sight to see. The large hole in the cave from the waterfall erosion allows light to penetrate the cave giving you a surreal sense of awe experienced at any great natural landscape.

Once at the formation you can follow the path deep into the cave for great photo opportunities, just beware that you might get a bit wet and the path could be a bit slippery. While in the cave you’ll probably notice a pungent smell, yes, that’s bat poop. Way past the trail end at the back of the cave are quite a few bats, but it’s a cave and that’s where bats live, we didn’t have any issues with the bats except for the smell. If visiting later in the afternoon then you might want to stick around for dark as then you’ll have the opportunity to see the cave’s resident glow worms. Other attractions in the Gold Coast will charge you to see their glow worms, here you can see them for free and stay as long as you’d like. Just remember to bring a torch with spare batteries for the walk back to your car if you’re planning to stay into the night.

We loved the Natural Bridge and already looking forward to going back. It’s a great place for individuals or those travelling with families to visit, not to mention it’s a great value, with the only expense being your cost for petrol to get there. Other attractions in the area will charge you for a similar rainforest experience, here it’s free. We made the mistake of visiting a park that charges for their rainforest walk before we visited Natural Bridge. We found the Natural Bridge trail just as well signposted with educational information and an equally good experience, plus you have the added benefit of the cave and waterfall. Additionally, any other place in the area will charge you to enter their man-made cave to see glow worms, here it’s free.

Here are a few tips if you’re planning a visit to Natural Bridge:

- No matter what time of year it’s always a good idea to bring a jacket or jumper. It’s always several degrees colder in the Hinterland, especially under the canopy of the rainforest.

- Bring a torch/flashlight with spare batteries if you’re planning to stick around until dark to check out the glow worms.

- There’s not much in the way of food nearby so it’s a good idea to bring your own snacks, or better yet plan for a picnic.

- There are drop toilets at the trail head but nothing along the trail itself.

I would definitely recommend a trip to the Natural Bridge during your stay on the Gold Coast, especially if you’re here visiting from another country. The Hinterland is a beautiful place and a ‘must do’. You’ll be thankful you did.

More info on the Natural Bridge including directions can be found here: http://www.queenslandholidays.com.au/things-to-see-and-do/natural-bridge-rainforest-circuit/index.cfm

Take a look at some of our photos from our day at Natural Bridge: