Mount Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk is a Unique Treetop Adventure in the Gold Coast Hinterland

If you’re all about stunning views without the leg burn, then the Mount Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk is for you. Hidden in the lush Gold Coast Hinterland, Ally’s here to guide us through this unique gem, a mere stone’s throw from the Gold Coast.

We acknowledge the Yugambeh people as the Traditional Custodians of the Country on which this adventure takes place who have occupied and cared for the lands, waters, and their inhabitants for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.

Mount Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk Overview

The Mount Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk is a cruisy 1.5km journey through the beautiful rainforest canopies of the Gold Coast Hinterland, taking around 45-50 minutes to complete. At roughly one hour from Brisbane CBD, or 50 minutes from the Gold Coast, it’s a unique and thrilling way to experience the area’s vibrant ecosystem.

Mount Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk Facts

Distance: 1.5km return
Duration: About 50 minutes
Elevation: 525m
Nearest Town: Tamborine Mountain

About Mount Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk

The Mount Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk is a unique experience allowing you to get up close and personal with the gorgeous rainforest canopy on Tamborine Mountain. It’s a breezy 1.5km path that blends ground trails and sky-high steel bridges, featuring a standout 40m cantilever bridge that hangs 30m above the forest floor, delivering some seriously cool views. 

Tickets need to be purchased from the visitor centre to experience the skywalk. Prices vary, but generally, adult tickets are $19.50, children (6-16 years) $9.50, family tickets start from $44, and concessions for seniors, students, and YHA cardholders are $16.50.

Kick off the walk at the rainforest eco-gallery, where you’ll learn some local ecosystem insights before hitting the trail. It’s a great nature-packed adventure for all ages. 

The skywalk is open daily from 9:30am to 4pm, with the gate closing at 5pm. There’s also a café for a post-walk snack, a gift shop for souvenirs, and all the necessary facilities. It’s the perfect way to get close to Australian rainforest flora – without leaving the comfort of a well-crafted walkway. 

Mount Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk History

This privately owned rainforest was originally purchased in 1988, and first gained recognition for its distinctive rainforest dining experience offered by the unique on-site restaurant. It later transformed into a luxury accommodation destination (Songbird Rainforest Retreat). 

Then, in 1998, the owners discovered a cool glow-worm colony on an untouched part of their land. This led to glow-worm eco-tours starting in 1999. These tours inspired the owners to create the skywalk, a daytime attraction to showcase the rainforest’s beauty.

Officially opened in 2009, this family-run venture was a significant undertaking, requiring careful planning to preserve the environment. Not a single tree was cut down during its construction, reflecting the family’s commitment to conservation​.

Indigenous History

Tamborine Mountain also has a rich Indigenous history, originally the territory of the Wangerriburras, part of the Yugambeh people. The name ‘Tamborine’ comes from ‘Jambreen’, a Yugambeh word meaning wild lime found in the area. This mountain was a key place for meetings and medicine, especially for women’s health with its sacred water and plants. Indigenous tribes visited for these resources but didn’t live there permanently.

How to Get to Mount Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk

Travelling by car is the most direct (and basically the only) method. 

Where is the Mount Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk located?

333 Geissmann Drive, North Tamborine, QLD 4272

By car

• From the Gold Coast: 44km (50 mins)
• From Brisbane: 68km (1 hour 5 mins)

By train or bus

Unfortunately, there’s no cheap way to get to the skywalk by train or bus. You can get a train then a taxi, or a shuttle bus, but they’re pretty pricey. The best option is to drive in by car.  

Where to Stay Near Mount Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk

There are plenty of options when it comes to staying overnight near Mount Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk. Songbirds Rainforest Retreat is the closest accommodation, but it’s also on the higher end price wise. 

Camping

The closest camping spot is Thunderbird Park, covering 112 hectares of rainforest. The park offers caravan and camping spots by Cedar Creek. It has both powered and unpowered sites alongside modern amenities and a shared kitchen. Unpowered sites start from $52 per night. 

Oz Sky Ranch is also highly rated on Hipcamp, set on over 350 acres of beautiful Gold Coast Hinterland at the bottom of Mount Tamborine near Canungra. Prices are $31 per night. 

Where to Stay in Mt Tamborine

Non-camping options include Cedar Creek Lodges, The Manor, Witches Falls Cottages, and Tall Trees Motel Mountain Retreat, with prices starting from about $170 per night. 

Where to Eat Near Mount Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk

A unique place to eat near the skywalk is Songbirds Restaurant, just 400m away. It offers up-market Australian cuisine with international and fusion options. 

If you’re looking for something a little less premium, try Tamborine Mountain Pizza for a post-walk feed. Or, if you want to stock up on food before your walk, visit Picnic Real Food Bar for sandwiches, wraps, some sweet treats, and drinks. And for coffee (most important, obviously), The Mountain Brew Coffee is the go-to. 

The skywalk visitor’s centre also has a cafe serving light refreshments if you’re in a rush and need some quick pre-walk fuel. 

Skill Level

Beginner

The Mount Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk is perfect for anyone, regardless of outdoor experience. It’s great for beginners and no special skills are needed – all you need to wear is a pair of comfy shoes. While it’s mostly easy-going, keep an eye on the weather and watch your step for those occasional slippery patches. The first 300m of the skywalk is also wheelchair and pram-friendly.

Photo by Tourism Australia/Tourism & Events Queensland

Essential Gear for the Mount Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Water bottle
• Hat and sunscreen
• Camera/phone to capture those stunning views
• Light raincoat, just in case

What it’s Like to Visit Mount Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk

The skywalk offers a serene and beautiful escape into nature. Walking among the treetops, you’ll experience the tranquillity and beauty of the rainforest up close. 

It’s an easy, family-friendly walk (that can get a bit busy on weekends, keep this in mind) that even those wary of heights (me!!!) will still enjoy the experience. Overall, it’s the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. 

Tips For Visiting Mount Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk

• Weather can change quickly, so dress in layers
• Sturdy walking shoes are a must due to the uneven and possibly slippery paths after periods of rain
• While no pre-booking is required for individuals, groups over ten should probably call ahead
• Campsites like Thunderbird and Oz Sky Ranch must be booked ahead of time
• Lastly, remember to bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to explore other trails around the area (check out Curtis Falls Walking Track!) 

Mount Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk FAQs

Is the Mount Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk guided?

No, it’s not a guided walk. You can complete the walk at your own leisurely pace. However, there’s plenty of information about the walk and region at the visitor’s centre. The walk departs directly from the eco-centre.

What is the Mount Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk?

The skywalk is a unique and thrilling way to explore the Gold Coast Hinterland. It’s a beautiful eco-adventure set on a spectacular elevated walkway of high-tech steel bridges, through a privately owned rainforest.

How much does Mount Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk cost?

Prices vary, but here’s an overview: adult tickets are $19.50, children (6-16 years) $9.50, family tickets start from $44, and concessions for seniors, students, and YHA cardholders are $16.50.

What can I see on the Mount Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk?

The skywalk is a safe and exciting way to experience the lush rainforest of the Gold Coast Hinterland. Features of the walk include the skywalk bridge, the butterfly lookout, a local history enclosure, crystal clear rock pools, and a densely vegetated rainforest floor – all set amongst beautiful rainforest canopies.

Is the Mount Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk accessible to everyone?

It’s best for visitors with sufficient mobility, as only the first 300m of the walk are wheelchair friendly.

What can I learn during my visit?

Before you start your adventure, take a moment to explore the eco-centre. It’s a great way to dive into the past and understand the natural beauty surrounding you. You’ll learn about the lush ecosystems and historical aspects that make this place special.

Images by Tourism & Events Queensland