The Best of All Lookout makes lofty claims — and absolutely meets them.
Best of All Lookout is one of those short walks that delivers big rewards, making it a must-do stop when visiting Springbrook National Park. With breathtaking views across the Tweed Valley, stretching to Woolumbin (Mount Warning) and Byron Bay, this walk proves that you don’t need a long hike to experience some of the Gold Coast hinterland’s most impressive scenery.
The walk to Best of All Lookout is an easy 700 metre return, taking around 20 minutes to visit. It’s suitable for most fitness levels and is a great option for families with kids who can manage a short walk.
Along the way, you’ll stroll through a moss-rich rainforest, before emerging at the lookout where you’re rewarded with stunning 180-degree views over northern New South Wales. On a clear day, the outlook is nothing short of spectacular.
One of the most special parts of this walk is the chance to pass through one of Queensland’s most accessible stands of Antarctic Beech Forest. This small pocket of ancient forest is a living link to the Gondwana rainforests, which thrived here during a much cooler climate millions of years ago.
These Antarctic Beech forests were once widespread across Australia and provided habitat for animals long since lost from our landscape. Today, this rare forest offers a fascinating glimpse into the deep natural history of the region.
From the lookout platform, the view is dominated by Woolumbin (Mount Warning) — the lava plug at the centre of the erosion caldera of the extinct Tweed shield volcano. This dramatic landscape tells the story of powerful volcanic activity that shaped the entire region.
To reach the lookout, drive to the end of Repeater Station Road. A quick tip — entering Best of All Lookout into GPS doesn’t always take you to the correct spot, so it’s worth double-checking your route before you go. Parking is limited, so visiting earlier in the day is recommended.
If you’re already visiting Springbrook National Park, especially if you’re planning to hike to Natural Bridge, Best of All Lookout is well worth adding to your itinerary. It’s a short, easy detour that delivers some of the best views in the region with minimal effort.
