Can you swim at Natural Arch?
Written by: Cameron Ward
Published: March 7, 2023
Reading time: 3 mins
Natural Arch is a beautiful rock formation in Queensland.
Natural Arch, also known as Natural Bridge, is almost an hour’s drive from Gold Coast. It’s a rock arch above a lake and inside the cave, there’s an opening from above where light and a waterfall comes inside.
Despite the picturesque arch and waterfall, you are unable to go swimming here. We know, we’re sad too! There is a great swimming hole at the Forest Park Rest Area nearby if you feel the need to swim!
How can I get to Natural Arch?
There is a one kilometre circuit walk that takes you to see the Natural Arch. You follow the walk in a clockwise direction, and it takes you through the Gondwana rainforest. Some of the lush plants and trees you see in the rainforest date to the Jurassic Age!
As you make your way through the ancient rainforest, keep a watch out for some birds, frogs, and even koalas! Soon you’ll arrive at the stunning Natural Arch. There is also a platform inside the cave to get another angle of the fall crashing into the lake below.
You can do this walk at night and witness the Natural Arch in the darkness. It’s beautiful being inside the cave with the moonlight brightening up inside slightly. You may also see some glow worms! They’re most prominent during the winter months, but you can see them all year around.
What else can I do in the area?
Natural Arch is in Springbrook National Park. There is so much to do in the area so let’s discuss it!
Walking trails
There are many walks in the national park that can take you to waterfalls, lookout points, and wildlife watching.
A great walk to do is the Purling Brook Falls circuit. On this walk, you go through the Springbrook Plateau and the eucalypt forest of New England ash. You’ll start walking down towards the gorge to soon get a view of the falls from below. It’s beautiful to see with the greenery surrounding and the waterfall.
After you’ve seen the beauty of the waterfall, start heading back by crossing the bridge and through the forest.
Springbrook Mountains
One of the main parts of the national park is Mount Cougal. Here you can learn a lot about the rich history surrounding the area. There is a walk to reach the top of the mountain, but the views are absolutely worth it! It’s amazing to see the mountains covered in greenery. The walk is a bit difficult, so if it’s not for you, seeing the mountains from a distance is just as amazing.
If you’re keen to see Natural Arch and other parts of Springbrook National Park, we recommend booking a tour! This one day Springbrook and Natural Arch tour takes you all around the national park and to Natural Arch.
