Witches Falls

Witches Falls holds a special place in Queensland's conservation history as the state's first declared national park, gazetted in 1908. Tucked into the western escarpment of Tamborine Mountain, this compact reserve protects a precious remnant of subtropical rainforest that once blanketed much of the region. The park takes its name from the seasonal waterfall that tumbles over basalt cliffs during wetter months, creating the misting effect that early settlers likened to witches' cauldrons.

A well-maintained walking circuit winds through the park, leading visitors beneath towering piccabeen palms, ancient strangler figs and dense canopies alive with birdlife. The main track is relatively short and accessible, making it popular with families and those seeking a gentle rainforest experience without committing to longer mountain trails. Interpretive signs along the way explain the area's natural and cultural significance.

Visitors often praise the park's surprising tranquillity given its proximity to Tamborine Mountain's township, and the sense of stepping back in time among trees that have stood for generations. The cool, shaded gullies offer welcome relief on warm days, while the falls themselves—when flowing—provide a photogenic focal point that captures the essence of this historic pocket of wilderness.