Gold Coast and Scenic Rim journey guide
Transcript of Gold Coast and Scenic Rim journey guide
oct 2017
Prin
ted April 2016
Gold Coast and Scenic Rimnational parks
Journey guide
Experience exhilaratingly
Parks at a glance C
ampi
ng
Park
in
form
atio
n ce
ntre
Toile
ts
Picn
ic a
rea
Look
out/
view
ing
poin
t
Shor
t wal
k
Hik
ing
trac
k
Mou
ntai
n bi
ke r
idin
g
Hor
seri
ding
Fish
ing
Burleigh Head NP
David Fleay Wildlife Park
Nerang NP
Pine Ridge CP
Tamborine NP l
Springbrook NP u l
Lamington NP
Main Range NP
Mount Barney NP
Moogerah Peaks NP
Glen Rock SF
l on the SEQ horse riding trail network only (refer to npsr.qld.gov.au for map) nearby u in Numinbah section only.
This is not a comprehensive guide of all the walks available in the parks. There are a number of longer walk options available. Find out more at queenslandnationalparks.com.auPhoto (front cover): Mount Barney National Park © Ben Blanche. Photo (this page): Mount Barney National Park © Lachlan Gardiner
Contents Parks at a glance ......................................................................................... 2
Welcome ...................................................................................................... 3
Be inspired ................................................................................................... 3
Map of Gold Coast and Scenic Rim ........................................................ 4
Maps legend ................................................................................................ 4
Track and trail classifications ................................................................... 5
Plan your getaway ...................................................................................... 6
Choose your adventure ............................................................................. 7
Burleigh Head National Park .................................................................... 8
David Fleay Wildlife Park .......................................................................... 9
Nerang National Park and State Forest ............................................... 10
Pine Ridge Conservation Park ................................................................. 11
Tamborine National Park ........................................................................ 12
Springbrook National Park ..................................................................... 14
Lamington National Park ........................................................................ 16
Main Range National Park ....................................................................... 18
Mount Barney National Park ................................................................. 20
Moogerah Peaks National Park .............................................................. 21
Glen Rock State Forest ............................................................................ 22
Camping. Be safe. Be responsible ......................................................... 23
Connect with Queensland National Parks .......................................... 24
2
Photo: Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt
Be inspired!
Treadthe ancient paths of Aboriginal
people, their stories woven around the rocks, animals and trees. Sit quietly beneath the forest canopy and feel your
own connection with the land.
Gazeout from windswept headlands
to whales and dolphins breaching playfully in the ocean and eagles
soaring through the vanilla dawn sky.
Ventureinto an endless playground of wild and vibrant places. Rocky escarpments, lush
rainforests and river gorges brim with trails for adventure
by foot, hoof or wheel.
Rechargeunder a brilliant night sky, your camp site cocooned by shadowy rainforest
and nocturnal wildlife rustlings. Bathe in stellar celestial views far
from the glow of city lights.
Photos (clockwise from top left): © Lisa Frost; © Lachlan Gardinar; Darren Jew © Tourism and Events Queensland; © Ben Blanche; Maxime Coquard © Qld Govt; © Tourism and Events Queensland
Witnessprehistoric landscapes
carved by tumbling waterfalls and cascading creeks.
Imagine megafauna roaming beneath the towering hoop pines and Antarctic beech
trees in the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area.
Breathecrisp mountain air laced with the
scents of wildflowers, native herbs and mint-fresh gum leaves. Stand high atop the summit with arms
thrown wide and your spirit soaring.
Welcome to
Gold Coast and Scenic Rim
parks
Welcome to the Gold Coast and Scenic Rim! From the ocean to the
majestic mountains framing the western skyline, we invite you to explore
this beautiful wilderness. Come for a day or several weeks and uncover
this region’s hidden gems. Be well prepared and respect the land and you
will be rewarded with many unforgettable and magical experiences.
Andy Dutton, Park Ranger
on behalf of the Park Rangers of the Gold Coast and Scenic Rim
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Moogerah Peaks National Park
Boonah
Kalbar
Milbong–Munbilla Rd
Mount Alford
Lake Maroon
MountBarney
NationalPark
Mount Chinghee National
Park
Rathdowney
Innisplain
KerryKooralbyn
Scenic Rim Regional Council Mount May Reserve
Scenic Rim Regional CouncilYellow Pinch Reserve
Main RangeNational Park
Emu Vale
Killarney
Tannymorel
Legume
Freestone
Queen Mary Falls
Glen RockState Forest
Spicers Gap RoadConservation Park
Warril View
Munbilla
Gladfield
Mount BeauBrummel
Conservation Park
Cunnin
gham
Cunnin
gham
Highway
Highway
HighwayHighway
Mount LindesayMount Lindesay
Head Gate Road
FletcherRd
Newman Rd
Cotswold Rd
Innisplain Rd
Mundoolum Connection Rd
Advancetown–Mudgeeraba Rd
Beechmont Rd
Beaudesert–
Nera
ng
Road
Widgee Creek Rd
Lake Moogerah RdGanthorpe Rd
Waterfall Creek Rd
South Pacific Ocean
North Tamborine
Canungra
Beechmont
CanungraConservation Park
Rosins LookoutConservation
Park
Beaudesert
Beenleigh
North Stradbroke
Island
Springbrook National
Park
LamingtonNational
ParkGreen
Mountains (O'Reilly)
BinnaBurra
NEW SOUTH WALES
QUEENSLAND
Coolangatta
Surfers Paradise
Nerang
Jimboomba
Coomera
Oxenford
Mudgeeraba
To Byron Bayand Ballina
To MurwillumbahTo Murwillumbah
To Brisbane
To IpswichTo IpswichTo Gatton
To Warwick
To Urbenville
To Kyogle
To Stanthorpe
To Brisbane
Pacific Highway
P acific Highway
Gold Coast Highway
Mount L
inde
say
High
way
East Haldon Rd
Inverramsay Rd
Swanfels R
d
Yang
an
Kilar
ney R
d
Border Rd
Emu Creek Rd
Carneys Creek Rd
Gambubal Rd
Whi
te S
wamp Rd
Conda mine Rd
Head Rd
Uppe
r Logan Rd
Lake Moogerah R d
Croftby–
Burn
ett C
reek Rd
Christmas Creek Rd
Kerry R d
Running Creek Rd
Dw
yer R
idges
Rd
Boon
ah-R
athd
owne
y Ro
ad
Spring Cre e k R
dWarwick–Kilarney Rd
Tunstall Rd
Boonah–Fassifern Rd
Ipsw
ich-
Boon
ah R
d
Jimboomba–
Mundoolum Rd
Wat
erfo
rd-T
ambo
rine
Rd
Beaudesert-Nerang Rd
Boonah-Beaud
esert Rd
Beau
dese
rt–B
eenl
eigh R
d
Lam
ingt
on N
atio
nal P
ark
Rd
Binn
a Bu
rra
Rd
B eech
mont Rd
G old Co
ast-Springb
rook
Rd
Tallebudgera
Creek Rd
Currumbin Cree k R
d
Ner
ang-
Mur
willu
mba
h Rd
Mun
billa
–P
eaking
Cros
sin
g Rd
Mou
nt Alford Rd
Coopers Gully Rd
Lake
M
ooge
rah
Rd
Mount French RdCharlwood Rd
Lake Moogerah
Wyaralong Dam
Hinze Dam
15
15
13
13
13
13
1
1
Oxenford-Gold Coast Rd
Southport
-Nerang Rd
Nerang-Broad beach Rd
Burleigh HeadNational Park
David FleayWildlife Park
NerangNational
Park
NerangState
Forest
TamborineNational
Park
Pine RidgeConservation Park
South StradbrokeIsland Conservation Park
Southern Moreton Bay Islands
National Park
NerangConservation
Park
WickhamNational
Park
PlunkettConservation
Park
WickhamTimber Reserve
Tamborine Mountain
To Kyogle
Gold Coastairport
5 10kmScale0
Gold Coast and
Scenic Rim
LegendNational park
State forest
Conservation park
Wildlife park
Timber reserve
Waterways
Restricted access
Township
Mountain
Ranger station
Information
Parking
Disabled access
Toilets
Cafe
Accommodation
Telephone
Tap water
4WD access
Lookout
Camping
Camper trailer
Caravan
MotorhomeMountain bike ridingHorseriding
Fishing
Canoe launch area
Nocturnal house
Horse yards
Airport
Amphitheatre
(these symbols are used throughout this brochure)
Wildlife spotting
Open fireplace
Barbeque—wood
Barbeque—gasBarbeque—coin operatedWalking track
Hiking
Picnic table
Sheltered picnic area
Shared trails legendShared trail (walking, mountain biking and horseriding)Shared trail (walking and mountain biking only)
Mountain bike trail
State border
Sealed road
Unsealed road
Walking track
Access track
Great Walk
Horse step over
Stairs
Visitor information Centre (VIC)WiFi access (VIC)
PARKS OF THE
GOLD COAST AND SCENIC RIM
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Moogerah Peaks National Park
Boonah
Kalbar
Milbong–Munbilla Rd
Mount Alford
Lake Maroon
MountBarney
NationalPark
Mount Chinghee National
Park
Rathdowney
Innisplain
KerryKooralbyn
Scenic Rim Regional Council Mount May Reserve
Scenic Rim Regional CouncilYellow Pinch Reserve
Main RangeNational Park
Emu Vale
Killarney
Tannymorel
Legume
Freestone
Queen Mary Falls
Glen RockState Forest
Spicers Gap RoadConservation Park
Warril View
Munbilla
Gladfield
Mount BeauBrummel
Conservation Park
Cunnin
gham
Cunnin
gham
Highway
Highway
HighwayHighway
Mount LindesayMount Lindesay
Head Gate Road
FletcherRd
Newman Rd
Cotswold Rd
Innisplain Rd
Mundoolum Connection Rd
Advancetown–Mudgeeraba Rd
Beechmont Rd
Beaudesert–
Nera
ng
Road
Widgee Creek Rd
Lake Moogerah RdGanthorpe Rd
Waterfall Creek Rd
South Pacific Ocean
North Tamborine
Canungra
Beechmont
CanungraConservation Park
Rosins LookoutConservation
Park
Beaudesert
Beenleigh
North Stradbroke
Island
Springbrook National
Park
LamingtonNational
ParkGreen
Mountains (O'Reilly)
BinnaBurra
NEW SOUTH WALES
QUEENSLAND
Coolangatta
Surfers Paradise
Nerang
Jimboomba
Coomera
Oxenford
Mudgeeraba
To Byron Bayand Ballina
To MurwillumbahTo Murwillumbah
To Brisbane
To IpswichTo IpswichTo Gatton
To Warwick
To Urbenville
To Kyogle
To Stanthorpe
To Brisbane
Pacific Highway
P acific Highway
Gold Coast Highway
Mount L
inde
say
High
way
East Haldon Rd
Inverramsay Rd
Swanfels R
d
Yang
an
Kilar
ney R
d
Border Rd
Emu Creek Rd
Carneys Creek Rd
Gambubal Rd
Whi
te S
wamp Rd
Conda mine Rd
Head Rd
Uppe
r L
ogan Rd
Lake Moogerah R d
Croftby–
Burn
ett C
reek Rd
Christmas Creek Rd
Kerry R d
Running Creek Rd
Dw
yer R
idges
Rd
Boon
ah-R
athd
owne
y Ro
ad
Spring Cre e k R
dWarwick–Kilarney Rd
Tunstall Rd
Boonah–Fassifern Rd
Ipsw
ich-
Boon
ah R
d
Jimboomba–
Mundoolum Rd
Wat
erfo
rd-T
ambo
rine
Rd
Beaudesert-Nerang Rd
Boonah-Beaud
esert Rd
Beau
dese
rt–B
eenl
eigh R
d
Lam
ingt
on N
atio
nal P
ark
Rd
Binn
a Bu
rra
Rd
B eech
mont Rd
G old Co
ast-Springb
rook
Rd
Tallebudgera
Creek Rd
Currumbin Cree k R
d
Ner
ang-
Mur
willu
mba
h Rd
Mun
billa
–P
eaking
Cros
sin
g Rd
Mou
nt Alford Rd
Coopers Gully Rd
Lake
M
ooge
rah
Rd
Mount French RdCharlwood Rd
Lake Moogerah
Wyaralong Dam
Hinze Dam
15
15
13
13
13
13
1
1
Oxenford-Gold Coast Rd
Southport
-Nerang Rd
Nerang-Broad beach Rd
Burleigh HeadNational Park
David FleayWildlife Park
NerangNational
Park
NerangState
Forest
TamborineNational
Park
Pine RidgeConservation Park
South StradbrokeIsland Conservation Park
Southern Moreton Bay Islands
National Park
NerangConservation
Park
WickhamNational
Park
PlunkettConservation
Park
WickhamTimber Reserve
Tamborine Mountain
To Kyogle
Gold Coastairport
5 10kmScale0
Class Suits Track description
1 Wheelchairs and strollers No bushwalking experience required. Flat even surface with no steps or steep sections.
2 Families with young children No bushwalking experience required. The track is a hardened or compacted surface and may have a gentle hill section or sections and occasional steps.
3 People with some bushwalking experience Suitable for most ages and fitness levels. Tracks may have short steep hill sections, a rough surface and many steps.
4 Experienced bushwalkers Tracks may be long, rough and very steep. Directional signs may be limited.
5 Very experienced bushwalkers Tracks are likely to be very rough, very steep and unmarked.
Novice riders and experienced horses with basic skills and fitness Wide trail with a gentle slope and a relatively obstacle-free, hardened natural slope.
Experienced riders and horses with moderate skills and fitness Trail with obstacles, variable surface and moderate slope. May include steep sections.
Track and trail classification
5
Escape magically
(Above) Albert’s lyrebird; (right)exploring David Fleay Wildlife Park; (below) Lamington National Park.
Photos: (clockwise from top left) © Bruce Thomson; Briony Masters © Qld Govt; Anna Osetroff © Qld Govt
Best time to visitAlong the coast the climate is mild and subtropical with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C in summer and from 11°C to 21°C in winter. But in the west and on the mountain plateaus winter mornings can fall below a frosty 0°C and hot summer days can reach a simmering 25°C to 40°C, especially on the exposed ridges.
Walking in the cooler months from April to September is best when rain and leeches are less common.
Add some local flavourAdd one of the region’s fun-loving events or tourist attractions to your journey.
Slow dance with a special someone at a jazz festival, steal through neon-lit city streets for some late-night shopping, treasure hunt at a local market or scream upside down on a rollercoaster ride.
Dress up and enjoy a day out at the country races, ride your bike past farmland and open country plains, celebrate at a firefly festival or savour regional flavours at a country pub, teahouse or winery.
Find out more at visitscenicrim.com.au and visitgoldcoast.com
Plan your getawayVenture into the green beyond the gold, where open woodland and rainforest adorn rolling valleys and peaks, and seemingly impassable ranges reach to the clouds. Write your own story on a day trip or holiday to this vast and beautiful landscape, exploring all that this region has to offer.
Guided toursIf you prefer someone else to do the planning,
or you’re simply short of time, you can join
tours with experienced guides—for just a day or
several nights. See visitscenicrim.com.au and
visitgoldcoast.com for more information.
Phot
o: ©
Tou
rism
and
Eve
nts Q
ueen
sland
Lamington National Park.
6
Photos: (above) © Office of Environment & Heritage (OEH); (right) © Myoko Inagaki
(Above) Bushwalking in the rainforest; (right) camping at Mount Barney NP.
Choose your adventureWhether you want to picnic beside a freshwater creek, tackle a challenging bushwalk or
treat yourself to an overnight stay in the country, there is a park adventure waiting for
you! Take your time—explore the natural beauty of this region on a leisurely scenic drive.
Here are some suggestions to help plan your journey.
Travelling from the West (Warwick)
Day and overnight trips• Enjoy a peaceful morning tea and
easy bushwalks with great views at
Mount French section, Moogerah
Peaks National Park.
• Stroll through rainforest and
take in spectacular lookouts and
cascades at Goomburra section,
Main Range National Park. With
plenty of space for the kids to run,
this is the perfect place to camp
overnight with the family.
• Picnic amid tall forest and witness
a majestic waterfall at Queen
Mary Falls section, Main Range
National Park.
Multi-day trips• Stay at a local cottage or camp in
Mount Barney National Park and
spend a couple of days exploring
the rugged landscape on epic
bushwalks and rock climbs. For
experienced walkers only!
• Take your hiking boots or ride
your horse and discover the rocky
escarpments of Glen Rock State
Forest, camping overnight at
Casuarina camping area.
Travelling from the East (Brisbane and Gold Coast)
Day and overnight trips• Visit David Fleay Wildlife Park for a
wildlife encounter, ranger-led show and
Devonshire tea, before walking along
Tallebudgera Creek mangrove boardwalk
to ocean views at Burleigh Head
National Park.
• Begin with a morning bike ride in Nerang
National Park and State Forest then
drive to Tamborine National Park to
discover cool rainforest walks, cafes and
boutiques, and the local hospitality of a
cosy bed and breakfast.
Multi-day trips• Bushwalk through rainforest and past
waterfalls to drink in scenic views at
Lamington National Park, before camping
under the stars or staying at a local
guesthouse.
• Enjoy an outdoor barbecue on a weekend
retreat to Springbrook National Park,
venturing on bushwalks with waterfalls,
rock caves and breathtaking views.
• See panoramic views at Mount French
section, Moogerah Peaks National Park,
before driving to the waterfall at Queen
Mary Falls section, Main Range National
Park, staying at the privately-owned
campground. Return via Cunninghams Gap
section, Main Range National Park for a
rainforest walk on the escarpment.
Tackle a Great WalkChallenge yourself on this 54km track linking Lamington and Springbrook national
parks. Your route follows an ancient volcanic rim through the Numinbah Valley
and sections of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area. Visit
npsr.qld.gov.au /parks/great-walks-gold-coast-hinterland/ for more information.
7
(Left) Walk around the headland; (above) see whales breaching. Echo
Beach
SouthPacific Ocean
The Cove
Tumgun lookout
Goodwin Tce
George St
Gold
Coa
st H
ighw
ay
200 400mScale0
12 2
Photos: (left) Maxime Coquard © Qld Govt; (above) © Qld Govt
Meander through a living museum of rainforest, mangroves and eucalyptus trees and imagine a time when this was once an abundantly-forested golden coast. Venture to the top of the headland and discover hexagonal-shaped basalt columns jutting out from the earth, cracked from the ancient Tweed Valley lava flow. Feel the sea spray blowing in from the ocean as you watch waves roll into the beach.
Things to do Fishing
Throw a line out at Echo Beach to catch a seafood dinner fresh from Tallebudgera Creek. There is a wheelchair ramp to the fishing platform on Tallebudgera Creek.
Burleigh Head National ParkDiscover tumbled basalt boulders, pandanus groves and sweeping ocean views on a walk through this peaceful coastal park.
Phot
o ©
Que
ensla
nd G
over
nmen
t
Headland, Burleigh Head National Park.
Wildlife spottingSpy bearded dragons and mottled carpet pythons sunning themselves on rocks, and Australian brush-turkeys obsessively tending their leafy nesting mounds. In mid-summer, jewel-coloured Richmond birdwing butterflies flit through the forest feeding on rainforest nectars. Walk along the rocky foreshore and delight in dolphins playing in the waves, and white-bellied sea-eagles and whistling kites riding the ridge updrafts on the hunt for fish.
Places to go1 Oceanview track
1.2km one way (30mins). Grade 3
Wander the rocky coastal headland from Tallebudgera Creek, exploring rainforest and pandanus groves sheltering abundant wildlife.
2 Rainforest circuit2.3km return (45mins). Grade 3
Duck into cool rainforest on this uphill hike to superb views of the coast from Tumgun lookout.
Must dos• Stand atop Tumgun lookout and be
mesmerised by humpback whales breaching gracefully in the coastal waters during winter and spring.
• Glory in sea, surf and sun hitting the waves on a surfboard at the world-renowned Burleigh Heads surf break.
• Escape the summer heat and crowds and retreat into cool rainforest.
Getting thereTravelling from Brisbane on the Pacific Motorway, take exit 89 and drive into Burleigh Heads. Turn right onto the Gold Coast Highway and left into Goodwin Terrace. Travelling from New South Wales, take exit 92 and drive into Palm Beach. Turn left onto the Gold Coast Highway and right at the traffic lights north of Tallebudgera Creek.
8
Fleays Wildlife Park Road
Creek Rd
Wes
t Bur
leigh
Roa
d
Talle
budgera
Cree
k
100 200mScale0
1
Entry to David Fleay Wildlife Park
2
To Pacific Motorway
LomanLane
(Top) Enjoy our Fleays in Flight show; (above) Wally the platypus.
Photos: (top) Steve Browne © Qld Govt; (above) Maxime Coquard © Qld Govt
Must dos• Flinch at the ‘snap’ of jaws closing,
as estuarine crocodiles launch out of the water to snatch prey from Park Rangers at feeding time (September–February, subject to change).
• Marvel at the playful escapades of Wally, the resident platypus, as he forages for crayfish and slides down his waterfall.
• Feel like an excited kid again as Park Rangers introduce you to amazing wildlife, some rarely seen in the wild.
Getting there Take the Burleigh Heads turn-off (exit 89) from the Pacific Motorway and follow the signs along West Burleigh Road, West Burleigh to the park entrance.
Phot
o: ©
Rob
ert A
shdo
wn
Estuarine (saltwater) crocodile.
David Fleay Wildlife ParkVenture into this much-loved wildlife park, beneath dappled eucalypt and arching fig tree canopies, in search of some of Queensland’s most intriguing and rarely seen animals.
Things to do
Watch daily wildlife shows
Join Park Rangers to learn about the unique wildlife that share our backyard, as well as elusive, endangered, and even dangerous critters! Snakes, gliders, cassowaries and crocodiles all have their time in the spotlight.
Visit the nocturnal house
Uncover the secret night-time antics of platypus, woma pythons and mahogany gliders inside the nocturnal house. Have a ‘Eureka’ moment far from the hot, dry grasslands of their native outback homes, discovering endangered bilbies and the story of the people trying to save them.
Places to go Free attractions outside the park.
1 Mangrove boardwalk 800m return (15mins)Grade: very easy; wheelchair accessible
Weave through fringing plants living between land and water, peeping through to stunning views of Tallebudgera Creek. Delight in azure kingfishers and rainbow bee-eaters darting through the mangroves.
2 Canoeing and kayaking Be enchanted on a peaceful paddle along the mangrove-lined Tallebudgera Creek, where you can drift past fish, stingrays, sea-eagles, and if you’re lucky, dolphins.
Imagine yourself on safari, glimpsing prehistoric-looking cassowaries, tree-kangaroos, dingoes, emus and iconic koalas from the boardwalk. Wander through wetlands, rainforest and open woodlands, where animals roam free in the natural surroundings. The park is open from 9am to 5pm daily, except Christmas Day and ANZAC Day morning—opening at 1pm. Admission fees apply. Phone (07) 5576 2411.
9
1kmScale0 Beaudesert Nerang Rd
Mt N
atha
n Rd
Pacific Motorw
ay
Price
St
Maudsland Rd
21
34
5
Beaudesert -Nerang Rd
Nerang National Park and State Forest
Phot
o: ©
Sha
ne C
ress
er
Mountain biking in Nerang National Park.
Feel your adrenaline surge as you horseride or mountain bike through the forested hills and gullies of this delightful bushland park.
Places to go1 Casuarina Grove circuit
2.7km circuit plus optional 800m loop (30–40mins riding time)
Enjoy an easy, family-friendly ride through a grove of casuarina trees.
2 Three hills track 2km one way (20–30mins riding time)
Wind through open forest of ghostly grey gum and tallowwood with steep hilly sections.
3 Brett’s track2.7km one way (30–40mins riding time)
Challenge yourself on a ride through dry sclerophyll forest and cool green gullies, with steep climbs and exciting descents.
4 Pete’s track 1.7km (15–20mins riding time)
Enjoy a flowing ride from Brett’s track back to the car park.
5 Pete’s extension track650m (5–10mins riding time)
Hone your skills on this quick and fun access track with technical trail features, linking to the Casuarina Grove circuit.
For a detailed mountain bike trail map visit npsr.qld.gov.au/parks/nerang or scan this QR code with your smartphone camera and use a QR-app to download the map.
Crisscrossed with a network of exhilarating shared trails and designated mountain bike tracks, explore this popular bush retreat by foot, hoof or wheel. Just make sure to look out for other trail users!
Things to do
Mountain bike and horseridingGrab your mountain bike and test your skills on one of five technically-challenging single mountain bike tracks, mastering small drop-offs and rock gardens as you go. Saddle up for a more relaxed adventure riding horseback along creek banks bathed in golden afternoon haze.
Wildlife spottingSee goannas dozing in gum trees or photograph a royal blue forest kingfisher swooping for lizards from low branches.
Must dos• Listen for the ‘crack’ of glossy
black-cockatoos greedily breaking open casuarina seeds above.
• Ride along Pete’s, Brett’s or the Casuarina tracks for one last mountain bike challenge before you leave.
• Tiptoe along the creek line in search of shy golden swamp wallabies, koalas and echidnas.
Getting thereNerang National Park is 12km from Surfers Paradise and 70km south of Brisbane. Access is along Matilda or Coolibah roads, from the Pacific Motorway, Nerang township or Beaudesert–Nerang Road.
10
(Above) Rainbow bee-eater; (right) pink boronia.
Photos: (above) © Qld Museum; (right) © Alison Ilec
Oxle
y D
rive
Poinsettia Ave
250 500mScale0
Must dos• Breathe in the perfume of delicate
wildflowers—wallum wedge pea, yellow peabush and prickly broom heath bloom in late winter and spring.
• Peek through binoculars and spy sacred kingfishers, rainbow bee-eaters and variegated fairy-wrens darting through the paperbark swamp forest.
Getting there Pine Ridge Conservation Park is in Runaway Bay, 10km north of the Gold Coast city centre, accessed via Oxley Drive off the Gold Coast Highway.
Phot
o: B
erna
rd H
icks
© Q
ld G
ovt
Banksia woodland.
Pine Ridge Conservation ParkEscape the bustling coast to the golden banksia woodland and flowering heathland of a park rich with Aboriginal cultural significance.
Connect with this sacred land of the
Kombumerri-Ngarangwal people, a place
where meals made from local bush foods,
fish and shellfish have been shared by
the Traditional Owners for thousands
of years. Discover shell heaps (middens)
piled with ‘kinyingurra’ (oyster) shells and
imagine past feasts. Be a botanist for the
day and try to distinguish the abundant
forest types growing here—eucalypt
forest with fragrant wattle, banksia
woodland, paperbark swamp and coastal
heath bursting with wildflowers.
Things to do Picnic
Relax with a picnic under the shaded
forest canopy. Picnic tables are provided.
Walking and cycling
Unwind on a gentle bushland walk or
cycle along the forested trail, past the last
remaining patch of wallum banksia heath
on the Gold Coast.
Wildlife spotting
Watch for echidnas snuffling in the leaf
litter, and ‘borobi’ (koalas) and ‘yowgurrah’
(goannas) in the tall bloodwood trees.
11
(Far right) Noisy pitta; (right) Palm Grove.
Photos: (far right) Adam Creed © Qld Govt; (right) © Queensland Museum
Walk through ethereal rainforest and silvery
eucalypt woodland, the fresh air revitalising
your every step. Red-necked pademelons
bound between slender palm trunks and
towering buttress roots, while platypus
and frogs dip into cool lagoons. Admire
sweeping views of Mount Warning, Mount
Barney and Lamington National Park and
the sparkling Pacific Ocean.
Declared in 1908, Tamborine National
Park was Queensland’s first national park,
(originally Witches Falls National Park).
Today’s park has 14 separate sections for
visitors to explore.
Did you know?The place name ‘Tamborine’ comes from the
local Yugambeh language. It means wild lime
and refers to the finger lime trees that grow
wild on the mountain and were eaten by the
traditional Aboriginal people of this land.
Tamborine National Park
Phot
o: M
axim
e Co
quar
d ©
Qld
Gov
t
Joalah section, Tamborine National Park.
Must dos • Witness Cameron Falls tumbling
over the cliff top on the Sandy
Creek circuit.
• Trace the footsteps of folklore
on a walk at Witches Falls—local
children once believed this forest
was haunted by witches and giants.
• Go for a scenic drive stopping for
a relaxing picnic with a view at The
Knoll or Palm Grove.
Getting thereTamborine Mountain is 80km south
of Brisbane. Travel via Nerang–
Beaudesert Road and Oxenford–
Tamborine Road from the Pacific
Highway, or Tamborine Mountain
Road from Canungra.
Lose yourself in the shade of white-washed flooded gums and rainforest gullies thick with piccabeen palms on a scenic mountain escape.
Things to do
Wildlife spotting
Listen for strange gurgling sounds
beneath your feet—these may
be giant Tamborine earthworms
travelling through waterlogged
underground burrows. Let Richmond
birdwing butterflies and colourful
noisy pittas beguile you in summer.
Picnicking
Enjoy popular picnic areas in
Cedar Creek, Palm Grove,
The Knoll, Witches Falls and
MacDonald sections.
Horseriding
Ride your horse on designated trails
in some sections of the park.
Access is from Beaudesert–Beenleigh
Road or Tamborine Mountain Road.
Visit npsr.qld.gov.au/experiences/
horse-trails/ for information about
the SEQ horse riding trail network.
12
MacDonaldsection
Cedar Creek section
Joalah section
Knoll Rd
Cedar CreekFalls Road
Palm
Grov
e Av
e
PalmGrove
section
Eagle Heights Rd
Main St
Curtis Rd Witches Falls section
The Knoll section
Geissm
ann
Dr
Main W
estern Rd
Tam
borin
e-Oxe
nford
Rd
Tamborine Mountain Rd
To Oxenford
To Canungra
1 2
103 4
5
6 7
Beacons Rd
8 9
1 2 3kmScale0
Curtis Falls.
Photo: © Lev Evison
Places to go
1 Cedar Creek Falls lookout track 500m return (15mins). Grade 1
Take a walk to Cedar Creek Falls lookout and
admire views of the gorge, waterfalls and rock
pools. The track to the lookout is suitable for
strollers and assisted wheelchair access.
2 Cedar Creek Falls track 900m return (30mins). Grade 3
From Cedar Creek Falls lookout, descend
through eucalypt forest and dry rainforest to
the rock pools below. This section from the
lookout to the rock pools is not suitable for
strollers or wheelchairs.
3 Curtis Falls track 1.1km return (30mins). Grade 3
Be enchanted on a walk beneath towering
flooded gums into lush rainforest.
4 Lower creek circuit 2km return (1hr). Grade 4
Branch off Curtis Falls track and cross
Cedar Creek before passing a giant, fallen
strangler fig.
5 MacDonald rainforest circuit1.4km return (30mins). Grade 2
Enjoy an easy, gentle walk past strangler
figs and lush groves of piccabeen palms.
6 Palm Grove circuit 2.6km circuit (1hr). Grade 3
Discover peaceful piccabeen palm groves,
rainforest with emergent strangler figs and
distinctively-buttressed yellow carabeens.
See fascinating fungi along the way.
7 Jenyns circuit4.5km circuit (1.5hrs). Grade 4
Veer off Palm Grove circuit into drier eucalypt
forest featuring a grove of ancient cycads.
8 Witches Chase track1.5km one way (1–2hrs). Grade 3
Wander down this track to Witches Falls
lookout and continue through rainforest with
large red cedar trees and eucalypt forest.
9 Witches Falls circuit3.1km return (1hr). Grade 3
Zigzag down the mountain side through
an open forest of banksia trees and into
rainforest with giant strangler figs before
reaching the lookout.
10 Sandy Creek circuit2.6km circuit (1hr). Grade 4
Explore lush rainforest with towering trees
emerging through the canopy, admiring
views across the valley to Flinders Peak
and Brisbane from Cameron Falls lookout.
SafetyThe steep narrow roads from Nerang and Canungra are unsuitable for buses, trailers, caravans and trucks.
Note: Limited bus, caravan and
motorhome parking is available in
Joalah, MacDonald and Witches Falls
sections only.
13
(Above) Blue spiny crayfish; (right) swamp wallaby.
Photos: © Robert Ashdown
Strap on your hiking boots and submerge into lush subtropical rainforest, open eucalypt woodland and montane heath, the sound of tumbling creeks and songbirds in the air. Witness the power of roaring cascades as they continue to sculpt rocky escarpments and caves. Feel you’ve reached the world’s edge as you venture atop lookouts and take in breathtaking views of the valleys below.
Did you know?Glow-worms seen at Natural Bridge are not actually worms but the larvae of a small fly. The light you see is a chemical reaction occurring inside the glow-worm’s body. Known as bioluminescence, meaning ‘living light’, this quirk of nature is used to lure prey.
Springbrook National Park
Phot
o: M
axim
e Co
quar
d ©
Qld
Gov
t
Twin Falls circuit.
Must dos• Stand on the suspension bridge and
feel the spray of Purling Brook Falls plummeting into the rock pools.
• Walk among ancient gnarled Antarctic beech trees dripping with wispy lichens in the cool temperate rainforest on the Best of All lookout track.
• Visit Natural Bridge by day to see the unique waterfall, and by night to be entranced by the blue-green lights of thousands of glow-worms.
Getting thereSpringbrook has four sections—the plateau, Mount Cougal to the east and Natural Bridge and Numinbah to the west.
Springbrook plateau sectionExit the Pacific Motorway at Nerang and follow Nerang–Murwillumbah Road to the Springbrook turn-off at Pine Creek Road. Or take Mudgeeraba turn-off and follow Gold Coast–Springbrook Road.
Mount Cougal sectionExit the Gold Coast Highway at Currumbin and follow Currumbin Creek Road to its end.
Numinbah and Natural Bridge sectionsExit the Pacific Motorway at Nerang and follow Nerang–Murwillumbah Road. Signs on your journey to Natural Bridge can be more reliable than your GPS in this area.
Spectacular waterfalls and cool ancient forests await you in this beautiful World Heritage-listed Gondwana rainforest.
Things to do Horseriding
Trot along the specified trails in Numinbah and Austinville sections of the park for a country-style horseride. Visit npsr.qld.gov.au/experiences/horse-trails/ for information about the SEQ horse riding trail network.
Wildlife spotting
Spot brilliant blue spiny crays, frogs and long-finned eels swimming in the sparkling mountain streams. Shy pademelons, swamp wallabies and potoroos roam the forest floor wary of visitors and glossy-black satin bowerbirds forage for blue treasures to decorate their bowers. At night, glow-worms provide a magical experience inside the cave at Natural Bridge.
Rangers’ tipEnjoy the drive through the scenic Numinbah Valley, passing the stunning Egg Rock ‘Kurraragin’, on the way to Natural Bridge.
Places to camp1 The Settlement camping area
Pitch a tent beside your car or bring your camper trailer or campervan to this beautiful mountain top camping area and slumber peacefully under a starry sky. Take a short walking track from here to the top of Purling Brook Falls.
14
Numinbah Valley
MountNimmel
Wunburra lookout
Apple TreePark
The PinnacleBochow Park
Numinbah Valley
Canyonlookout Goomoolahra
picnic area
Mount Cougalsection
Tallanbana picnic area
Numinbah section
Forest Park picnic area
Pine Creek Rd
Go
ld Coast−Sp ring
broo
k R
d
Best of All lookout
Lyre
bird
Rid
ge R
d
Springbrook Rd
Nerang–M
urwillum
bah Rd
To Nerang
To Mudgeeraba
To Currumbin
To Murwillumbah
LittleNerangDam
Natural Bridge section
New South Wales
The Settlement camping area
The Settlement day-use area
Cave
Currumbin Ck
Nera
ng R
iver
2 4kmScale0Ck
Springbrook plateau section
Repe
ater
Stat
ion
Road
1
2
3
4 5
6
7
1
(Top) Natural Bridge; (above) Twin Falls.
Photos: (top) © Scott Viney; (above) Maxime Coquard © Qld Govt
Places to go1 Goomoolahra Falls lookout
and track
200m return (5mins). Grade 2
Take in the view stretching to Stradbroke
and Moreton islands from several
lookouts at the top of the 60m high
Goomoolahra Falls.
2 Best of All lookout track
600m return (30mins). Grade 2
Venture past Antarctic beech trees to a
spectacular view of northern New South
Wales dominated by Mount Warning, an
ancient extinct volcano.
3 Purling Brook Falls circuit
4km return (2hrs). Grade 3
Pass through open eucalypt forest with
tall New England ash, ancient lepidozamias,
hakeas and wildflowers before descending
into the gorge to view the falls from the
suspension bridge over the rock pools.
With 265 steps this walk is best travelled in
a clockwise direction.
4 Twin Falls circuit
4km return (2hrs). Grade 3
Pass behind two waterfalls, through
rock clefts and among palms and
treeferns on this exciting bushwalk
through changing forests.
5 Warrie circuit
7 Cascades track1.6km return (1hr). Grade 2
Walk through subtropical rainforest beside
Currumbin Creek to a viewing platform
overlooking scenic cascades and an old
bush sawmill.
17km return (allow 5–6hrs). Grade 4
Follow the base of The Canyon cliffs to
Goomoolahra Falls before descending into
the mossy green depths of the rainforest
to reach the ‘Meeting of the Waters’, where
all watercourses draining The Canyon meet.
6 Natural Bridge circuit
1km return (1hr). Grade 2
Walk across Cave Creek to witness the
waterfall plunging into the arched cave.
At night the cave is illuminated by glow-
worms and fungi and alive with the flutter
of little bent-wing bat wings. This track is
best walked in a clockwise direction.
SafetyBe cautious near cliff edges, remain on formed walking tracks and stay well outside the restricted access area at the top of Purling Brook Falls and on Cave Creek at Natural Bridge. Do not jump into rock pools at Mount Cougal. Serious injuries have occurred.
15
Crimson rosella.
Photo: Anna Osetroff © Qld Govt
Reinvigorate your spirit on a short or full-day bushwalk past roaring cascades and rainforest groves, under the twisted arms of ancient Antarctic beech trees and through blankets of flowering heath. Lamington’s rainforests are remnants of ancient Gondwanan forests that once covered Australia. With each step feel a connection with this beautiful land—a sacred and spiritual place for the Yugambeh people.
Did you know?The Albert’s lyrebird can imitate sounds from its surrounding, from bird calls to human sounds, including chainsaws, car horns and alarms, barking dogs, crying babies and musical instruments.
Things to do
Wildlife spotting
Listen for the whip-cracking call of the eastern whipbird. See the brilliant red and blue colours of the crimson rosella or the magnificent green and red of the Australian king-parrot. In the cooler months you may be lucky enough to hear the fluid calls or spy the gossamer plumage of one of the park’s ancient songbirds—the Albert’s lyrebird—along the rainforest tracks.
Lamington National Park
Phot
o: ©
Tou
rism
and
Eve
nts Q
ueen
sland
Elabana Falls.
Must dos• Admire sweeping views across
Ships Stern, Turtle Rock, ‘Kurraragin’ (Egg Rock) and down into Numinbah Valley from Koolanbilba lookout along the Lower Bellbird circuit.
• Feel cool spray kiss your face as you walk past rushing cascades and wild waterfalls on the Toolona Creek circuit.
• Rest in quiet contemplation at Collin’s chair on the Caves circuit and take in views down into Coomera Valley.
• Hike the rainforest-clad cliff line along the state border on the Border Track, from Green Mountains to Binna Burra.
Getting thereLamington National Park has two sections—Green Mountains (O’Reilly) and Binna Burra. If you’re using GPS directions type Binna Burra, and O’Reilly’s or Lamington National Park Road for Green Mountains.
Green Mountains sectionExit the Pacific Motorway at Beenleigh or Nerang and follow signs to Canungra. The 36km road to the park from Canungra is unsuitable for large campervans, camper trailers or caravans.
Binna Burra sectionExit the Pacific Motorway at Nerang and follow signs west to Lamington National Park, Binna Burra. The final section of the 10km drive is very narrow and winding.
Walk upon cloud-drenched mountains, over rugged cliffs and crystal-clear creeks, and experience the grandeur of this ancient World Heritage-listed national park.
Rangers’ tipThe best way to truly experience this historic World Heritage gem is to stay overnight. Discover the park’s special stories at the Binna Burra and Green Mountains information centres.
Places to camp
1 Green Mountains camping area
Enjoy tent and campervan camping on this grassy, gently-sloping camping area 200m from the Green Mountains information centre. Large campervans, camper trailers or caravans are not permitted. A private campground is located at Binna Burra.
Remote bush campingA few bush camp sites are available in remote areas of Lamington National Park, accessed by walking using either a topographic map or GPS. All remote bush camping sites are closed from 1 December to 31 January.
16
Green Mountains section
MoransFalls
WestCanungra
Creek circuitDarraboola
Falls
Python Rocklookout
Morans Fallslookouts
Green Mountainscampground
O’Reilly’sRainforest Retreat
Yerralahla (pool)
Tree TopWalk
Park Rd
3
Lamington
National
4
2
1
1
Binna Burra section
BellbirdCk
Rifle B
ird C
reek
Binna BurraMountain Lodge
Kweebani Cave
Binna Burra
Loop Track
8
5
76
Green Mountains section.
Photo: Anna Osetroff © Qld Govt
Places to goGreen Mountains section1 Centenary track
1.8km return (30mins). Grade 1 Pass through tall hoop pines into subtropical forest on this easy walk, stopping to pause at the bench seating provided to watch for regent and satin bowerbirds darting through the branches.
2 Rainforest return1.4km return (30mins). Grade 2 Watch for yellow-throated scrubwrens and logrunners among the leaf litter on this short rainforest stroll at the start of the lengthy Border Track. Go a little further to see the historic track building camp at Morans Creek.
3 Python Rock track3.1km return (1hr). Grade 1Pass through rainforest into an open eucalypt forest with grasstrees, hakeas and various wildflowers. Enjoy views of Morans Falls, Castle Crag and the Lost World from Python Rock lookout.
4 Morans Falls track 6.2km return (2hrs) via the Centenary track. Grade 4See Morans Falls and drink in the scenic panorama across Morans Creek Gorge to Fassifern Valley and distant ranges.
Binna Burra section5 Rainforest circuit
1.2km return (30mins). Grade 2Pass through warm subtropical rainforest listening for bowerbirds and catbirds on this self-guided walk.
6 Bellbird lookout2km return (1hr). Grade 4Descend through rainforest and open forest to Bellbird lookout with excellent views of Ships Stern, Turtle Rock, ‘Kurraragin’ (Egg Rock) and Numinbah Valley.
7 Caves circuit5km return (1.5hrs). Grade 4Wind through open forest and rainforest taking in views of Coomera Valley.
8 Tullawallal circuit5km return (1.5hrs). Grade 3Walk through cool temperate rainforest before arriving at a pocket of ancient Antarctic beech trees.
SafetyA high level of physical fitness and navigational skills are essential to walk more remote parts of this extremely rugged mountain park. Arrive early to complete any full-day walks and avoid getting lost at night.
17
Ramble along rugged grasstree-lined
escarpments with coral-red giant spear
lilies clinging to almost-vertical slopes
beneath. Subtropical rainforest hugs
the park’s moist gullies while the sunny
slopes burst with fragrant eucalypt
trees, wattles and casuarinas. Discover
the secret world of the endangered
eastern bristlebird and vulnerable
black-breasted button-quail. Stroll along
easy trails to visit heritage sites and
amazing lookouts, or head off-track for a
challenging hike into remote areas where
you’ll feel like the only soul.
Did you know?History is alive in these hills! It is believed
that up to 13 people are buried at the
Pioneer gravesite at Spicers Gap. One
grave is reputed to be that of Mrs
Collins, the wife of a bullock driver,
who fell from a loaded wool dray while
descending the ‘pinch’ (narrow road),
and for whom Mother Collins Pinch was
named after.
Things to do Wildlife spotting
Glimpse brush-tailed rock-wallabies
balancing precariously on the cliffs or
Cunninghams skinks sunning themselves
Main Range National Park
Phot
o: ©
Tou
rism
and
Eve
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ueen
sland
View to Mount Mitchell from Mount Cordeaux.
Must dos• Stand at the edge of a receding escarpment
when you visit Sylvesters lookout and feel as if you’re soaring above the valley below.
• Guess the age of gnarled giant brush box on the Rainforest circuit boardwalk at Cunninghams Gap.
• Behold spectacular Queen Mary Falls plunging 40m into the lush boulder-strewn valley below.
• Follow the footsteps of early explorers and pioneers at Cunninghams and Spicers gaps.
Getting thereThe park has four sections—Cunninghams Gap and Spicers Gap at the top of the range and Goomburra and Queen Mary Falls in the sheltered foothills.
Cunninghams Gap sectionCunninghams Gap is 116km south-west of Brisbane, 21km from Aratula, or 50km north-east of Warwick.
Spicers Gap sectionTo access Spicers Gap turn south off the Cunningham Highway into Lake Moogerah Road then turn right into Spicers Gap Road. This road is steep in places and is not suitable for campervans or caravans.
Goomburra sectionGoomburra can be reached from either the New England Highway south of Allora or from the Cunningham Highway west of Cunninghams Gap. The last 6km of road to the park is unsealed and may be flooded after heavy rain.
Queen Mary Falls sectionQueen Mary Falls is 11km from Killarney and 64km south-west of Boonah on Killarney–Boonah Road. The scenic road from the east is steep and not suitable for caravans.
Spend a few hours, a day or a week discovering this historic arc of mountains stretching spectacularly from Mount Mistake to Wilsons Peak.
on rocky outcrops. Listen for the throaty
‘ok-ok-ok-ok-ok-ok’ call of the Fleay’s
barred-frog after rainfall. Delight in
wedge-tailed eagles soaring overhead and
treecreepers scurrying up tree trunks to
sneak unsuspecting prey.
Picnicking
Enjoy a scenic picnic at Cunninghams Gap,
Spicers Gap, Queen Mary Falls (pictured
below) or Goomburra.
Rangers’ tipStop for 5 minutes in a quiet place and
become part of the bush—it’s amazing
what you’ll see and hear!
18
(Left) Queen Mary Falls; (top) Fleay’s barred-frog; (above) Dalrymple Creek crossing on the Cascades circuit in Goomburra section.
Photos: (far left) © Tourism and Events Qld; (top) Harry Hines © Qld Govt; (above) Maxime Coquard © Qld Govt
5 10kmScale0
Allora
New England Hwy Gladfield
Killarney
Queen Mary Falls section
NewSouth Wales
Boonah Inverramsay Road
Cunningham Highway
SpicersGap Rd
Carn
ey’s
Ck R
d
Goomburra section
Spicers Gap section
The Head Rd
To Toowoomba
To Rathdowney
Warwick
To Beaudesert
Cunninghams Gap section
Sprin
g Creek Rd
To Brisbane
1
2 43
5 6
7 8
1 2
3
Places to campCamping at Goomburra is a fantastic family
experience with plenty to see and do.
Book your camp site well in advance for
school holidays and long weekends to make
sure you don’t miss out.
1 Poplar Flat camping area— Goomburra
Enjoy an open, flat, grassy camping area
adjacent to Dalrymple Creek.
2 Manna Gum camping area– Goomburra
Manna gums provide ample shade during
the warmer months in this open, flat, grassy
area next to Dalrymple Creek.
3 Spicers Gap camping area
For a more cosy experience, pitch a tent in
this small, grassy area set in a clearing on
the eastern side of Spicers Gap.
Remote campingSome opportunities for remote, walk-in
bush camping are available. Minimal impact
camping is encouraged within the park—
please, if you pack it in, pack it out. There
are no facilities at these remote camp sites.
Places to go
1 Queen Mary Falls circuit
2km return (40mins). Grade 3
Take a leisurely stroll through the
eucalypt-covered ridge top to the
rainforest gorge and witness Queen Mary
Falls from the lookout.
2 Sylvesters lookout
940m return (30mins). Grade 3
Take in magnificent views over the coastal
plains from Sylvesters lookout, including
the southern tip of Lake Moogerah and
the rugged Border Ranges to the south.
3 Mount Castle lookout
960m return (30mins). Grade 3
Gaze at views over Laidley Valley and
the Little Liverpool Range from Mount
Castle lookout.
4 Dalrymple circuit
1.2km return (30mins). Grade 3
Explore the rich history and natural values
of the forest on this self-guided signed
circuit, ideal for young family groups.
5 Pioneer Graves track
260m return (15mins). Grade 2
Venture on a short walk from the picnic
area to a small cemetery where 13 people
are believed to be buried.
6 Governors Chair lookout
300m return (15mins). Grade 3
Visit Governors Chair, the large rock on the
edge of the cliff face, which was reportedly
a popular resting spot for early governors
of Queensland journeying through Spicers
Gap. Look out over Fassifern Valley.
7 Rainforest circuit
1.6km return (25mins). Grade 3
Pass the Allan Cunningham monument
before detouring to Fassifern Valley
lookout, offering a spectacular view over
distinctive volcanic peaks, Fassifern Valley
and Lake Moogerah.
8 Box Forest track
5km return (2hrs). Grade 3
Pass through rainforest and open forest to
arrive at brush box-lined West Gap Creek.
19
5kmScale0
Mt MaroonMt May
McPherson Range
Mt Clunie
LowerPortals
Upper Portals
MaroonDam
Yellow Pinch Reserve
Rathdowney
Mt ErnestNew SouthWales
Mt Lindesay
MtBallow
Burn
ett C
k
Wat
erfa
ll C
reek Rd
N ewman
Rd
Cots
wol
d
Boonah–Rathdowney Rd
Mt Barney Rd
Burn
ett C
reek Rd Lo
gan
Rive
r
To Boonah To Rathdowney
To Woodenbong
Rd
Upper Logan Rd
Mt Lindesay Highway
1
5
42
3
West BarneyPeak
East BarneyPeak
Mount Barney National Park
Phot
o: ©
Tou
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and
Eve
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sland
Mount Barney’s East Peak.
Must dos• Challenge yourself and scale Mount
Maroon to delight upon spectacular wildflowers on the summit in spring. For experienced climbers only!
• Sit quietly beside crystal-clear Mount Barney Creek at the Lower Portals and scout for tell-tale bubbles of platypus activity breaking on the water’s surface.
Getting thereFrom Mt Lindesay Highway turn right onto Boonah–Rathdowney Road at Rathdowney and left onto Barney View–Upper Logan Road, following signs to either Lower Portals or Yellow Pinch.
To get to Upper Portals track, turn off the Boonah–Rathdowney Road onto Burnett Creek Road or Newman Road, then turn onto Waterfall Creek Road. A high-clearance 4WD vehicle is required for access beyond Waterfall Creek camp site.
SafetyClimbing the peaks of Mount Barney National Park is extremely challenging, with exposed rocky sections, steep cliffs and areas requiring rock scrambling and climbing skills. They should only be attempted by fit and experienced bushwalkers. Clouds on the summit can make navigation challenging. A topographic map, navigational and map reading skills are essential.
Very experienced bushwalkers can climb sheer rugged mountain peaks to witness awe-inspiring views of craggy ridges and distant ranges.
epic summit of Mount Barney. This climb is arduous and should only be undertaken by very fit and experienced bushwalkers.
5 Cotswold track8hrs. Grade 5In spring, admire spectacular wildflower displays set against the craggy peaks of the Scenic Rim on this challenging summit hike to Mount Maroon.
Places to camp Remote bush camping
All remote camping sites in Mount Barney National Park can only be reached by foot. Minimal impact camping is encouraged within the park—please, if you pack it in, pack it out. There are no facilities at the camp sites.
Things to do Wildlife spotting
See kingfishers swoop over rock pools and honeyeaters and robins flitting in the trees. Grey kangaroos and red-necked wallabies bound through the foothills.
Rising dramatically above the surrounding grazing and farmlands, mounts Barney, Maroon, May, Ernest, Ballow and Clunie form this hiking mecca. Feel sheltered beneath tall spreading eucalypts and brush box trees on the grassy slopes, rising into subtropical rainforest and wet mallee forest—home of the endangered Coxen’s fig-parrot and vulnerable plumed frogmouth.
For the less adventurous, embark on a more moderate bushwalk along the mountains’ base.
Places to go1 Lower Portals track
7.4km return (3hrs). Grade 3 Discover the delights of beautiful rock pools along a gorge on Mount Barney Creek.
2 Cronan Creek track13km return (5hrs). Grade 4Walk along the fire trail past the base of South Ridge into cool green riparian rainforest.
3 Upper Portals track8km return (3hrs). Grade 4Crisscross Yamahra Creek through patches of rainforest, eucalypt and hoop pine forest before refreshing at a cool waterhole.
4 South Ridge track8–10hrs. Grade 5Leaving from Yellow Pinch car park, walk 1hr (3.5km) along Cronan Creek track before starting your long climb to the
20
Rock climbing at Mount French.
Photo: © Cameron Semple
Lake Moogerah
1 2 3kmScale0
To IpswichTo Ipswich
To KillarneyTo Rathdowney
To Warwick
Highway
Highway
Charl wood Rd
L
ak
e M
ooge
rah
Rd
Ganthorpe Rd
Cree
kCr
eekR
dRd
Mt French RdMt French Rd Boonah
Aratula
Mount Alford
MountEdwardssection
Mount Frenchsection
Cunn
ingha
m
Cunn
ingha
m
Mount A lford Rd
CarneysCarneys
Croftby –Lake Mooge
r ah Rd
Tevio
tBr
ook
Cree
k
Alfo
rds
Tunstall Rd
MountMoon
section
Cree
k
Reyn
olds
Mount Grevillesection
Lake Moogerah Rd
Dwyer R
idges
Rd
Lake
Moo
gerah
Rd
Mount Alford
Rd
Boonah–Rathdowney Rd
Legend
National park
Water
Waterways
Sealed major road
Unsealed road
Highway
Dam wall
Information
Parking
Camping
Car camping
Toilets
Wheelchair access
Water
Barbecue / fireplace
Picnic table
Lookout
Walking track
HikingPathogen control stationNo water provided
Boonah–Fassifern Rd
1 21
Explore the mountains, venturing through eucalypt woodland, extremely rare brigalow scrub and dry rainforest laced with hoop pines, vines and slender piccabeen palms. Emerge onto rocky summits with montane heath hugging the craggy outcrops and the wind blowing across your face.
Things to do Rock climbing
Crack climbing at its best! Chalk up and scale the sheer rock face of world-famous Frog Buttress on Mount French. This is for experienced climbers only!
Wildlife spottingBe amazed by the acrobatics of Peregrine falcons performing near-vertical dives into the valleys. Colourful finches dart through the grass and goannas cling to the tree trunks around you. Small populations of the rarely-seen black- breasted button-quail live on Mount French.
Places to go1 North cliff track
720m return (15mins). Grade 2 Walk to Logans lookout for panoramic views over Fassifern Valley, with the Main Range escarpment to the west and Flinders Peak and beyond to the east.
2 Mee-bor-rum circuit840m return (25mins). Grade 3Pass through heathland and delight in views of Tamborine, Lamington, Mount Barney and the southern section of Mount French.
Moogerah Peaks National ParkMust dos• Feel on top of the world
looking out over Fassifern Valley, Cunninghams Gap and Mount Barney from lookouts on Mount French.
• Soak in the rainbow hues of wildflowers—ruby-red pea flowers, yellow dogwood and creamy Leptospermum colour the springtime landscape atop Mount Greville.
Getting thereMount French is 9km west of the turn-off just south of Boonah. Mount Edwards is east of the Cunningham Highway and 9km south of Aratula. Mount Greville is 25km south-west of Boonah via Mount Alford Road or 11km south of Lake Moogerah. Mount Moon is surrounded by private property.
SafetyThe rough trails to the summits of Mounts Edwards and Greville are spectacular but should only be tackled by fit, experienced walkers.
Marvel at the ancient volcanic peaks of mounts French, Greville, Moon and Edwards, standing sentinel as the remnants of a once-forested Fassifern Valley.
Places to camp1 Frog Buttress camping area
Relax in a small grassy area set in open eucalypt forest close to walking tracks. This spot is often booked by international and local rock climbers during the climbing season (April to September).
Mount French camp sitesTwo vehicle camp sites are available in the Mount French car park. This spot is often booked by international and local rock climbers during the climbing season (April to September). Toilets, picnic tables and wood barbecues can be found at the picnic area nearby.
Phot
o: R
ober
t Ash
dow
n ©
Qld
Gov
t
Bushwalking at Mount French.
Top Yards.No horses and mountain
bikes beyond this point.
Point Pure
Abbotts Yards
Glen Rock
East Haldon Rd
Mount Philp
Casuarina camping and day use area
To Gatton
Glen RockState Forest
Main RangeNational
Park
1 2kmScale0
1
2
Glen Rockgully
1
Hear the crunch underfoot as you journey
along the park’s gravel roads, where twisted
eucalypt trees and grasstrees dot the
landscape. Named after a prominent volcanic
rock outcrop, this park is the most westerly
extent of the Gondwana Rainforests of
Australia World Heritage Area.
Things to do Wildlife spotting
Be a wildlife detective and look for tracks and oval-shaped scats left by brush-tailed rock-wallabies. Search for the bright red flash of a glossy black-cockatoo’s tail in nearby casuarina trees.
Walking, horseriding and cycling
The park’s management roads provide paths for walkers and riders to explore the unique landscape. Swap boots for hooves and ride in the footsteps of early settlers and farmers on the trail to Top Yards and Christies Loop. Cyclists can enjoy a flowing ride along the shared trails, taking
in views down to the rainforest gorge.
Glen Rock State Forest
Phot
o: ©
Rob
ert A
shdo
wn
Standing on Glen Rock with views to Mount Philp.
Must dos• Let your heart melt as the
setting sun passes over volcanic outcrops and forested hills before disappearing into the sweeping pastel-brown plains.
• Picnic leisurely by Blackfellow Creek or camp overnight and listen for the storybook ‘whoo-hoo’ hoot of the powerful owl.
Getting thereGlen Rock State Forest is 40km
south of Gatton and located at the
southern end of East Haldon Road
on Blackfellow Creek. From Gatton–
Toowoomba Road at the western
edge of Gatton take the Mount
Sylvia Road turn-off. Travel south
through Tenthill to Junction View.
At Junction View State Primary
School turn left and follow East
Haldon Road to the park.
Explore open woodlands, rocky escarpments and rainforest in this beautiful park nestled in Tenthill Valley near Gatton.
Places to camp
1 Casuarina camping area
This open, flat, grassy camping area
is close to Blackfellow Creek and is
dominated by the dramatic ridgelines
of the surrounding valley. Suitable for
tent camping, trailers, caravans and
camper vans.
Places to go1 Christies loop
5.2km return
Climb this steep and rocky trail to
admire views over Blackfellow Creek
Valley and the signature red rock
outcrop that is Glen Rock.
2 Blackfellow Creek trail16km return
Follow the creek from the fertile,
alluvial flats to the headwaters of
Blackfellow Creek, ending at the
historic Top Yards.
22
Top Yards.No horses and mountain
bikes beyond this point.
Point Pure
Abbotts Yards
Glen Rock
East Haldon Rd
Mount Philp
Casuarina camping and day use area
To Gatton
Glen RockState Forest
Main RangeNational
Park
1 2kmScale0
1
2
Glen Rockgully
1
(Left) Lamington National Park; (above) camping along the Gold Coast Great Walk.
Photos: (left) © Daniel Barber; (above) Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt
CampingIt’s best to book well in advance as camp sites
in popular parks are in great demand during
peak periods such as long weekends and
school holidays.
Book your camp sites and purchase your
camping permits online at qld.gov.au/camping
Phot
o: A
nna
Ose
troff
© Q
ld G
ovt
Lamington National Park.
Packing checklistq Adequate drinking water, food and
emergency supplies.
q Complete first-aid kit. Include sun and insect protection.
q Detailed map showing travel routes and distances.
q Reliable camping gear in good working order.
q Sturdy rubbish bags and/or sealable, animal-proof containers. No bins are provided.
q Long distance walkers: take a topographic map, compass and personal location beacon (PLB).
Be safe• Walk with a group and avoid
walking alone.
• Allow plenty of time to reach your
planned destination before dark.
• Stay on formed tracks and do not
shortcut.
• Treat all water from taps, creeks
and lakes. Boil water for 10mins or
use sterilisation tablets.
• Wear sturdy boots, protective
clothing and insect repellent to
avoid bites, scratches and stings.
• Stay well back from cliff edges and
waterfalls.
• Never dive or jump into creeks,
waterholes or lakes.
• Remember mobile phone coverage
is limited in most parks away from
the coast. Inform family or friends
of your planned itinerary.
Your safetyIn high fire danger conditions, walking
tracks and other areas may be closed.
In the case of a bushfire or any illegal
activity, please phone emergency
services Triple zero (000) or 112 from
your mobile phone as soon as possible.
Be responsible• Rubbish—pack it in, pack it out.
All rubbish (including food scraps,
cigarette butts and sanitary and
hygiene items) must be carried out.
• Where permitted, light campfires only
within existing fire rings.
• Avoid the spread of weeds by checking
clothing and equipment regularly for
seeds. Wash boots at pathogen control
stations where available to stop the
spread of dangerous fungi.
• Be frog-friendly—please do not
disturb, handle or remove frogs, their
eggs or tadpoles.
• Leave your pets at home.
• Please don’t feed wildlife.
• Wash away from streams, gullies and
watercourses, minimising use of soap
and detergent.
• Where toilets are not provided, bury
all faecal waste and toilet paper
15cm deep and at least 100m from
waterways, tracks and camp sites.
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Journey wisely
© State of Queensland 2016. Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service,
Department of National Parks, Sport and Racing. BP1993 April 2016, accurate at the time of printing.
Printed on eco-friendly paper to save energy and resources. Photo: Burleigh Head National Park © Lisa Frost
Connect with Queensland National Parks
queenslandnationalparks.com.au
book at qld.gov.au/camping
facebook.com/qldnationalparks
@QldParks; #QldParks
Useful contacts Emergencies: Dial Triple Zero (000) or 112 from your mobile phone.
Road conditions: Visit the Department of Transport and Main Roads at 131940.qld.gov.au or phone 13 19 40.
Tourism information:Gold Coast Tourism visitgoldcoast.com
Scenic Rim Regional Council visitscenicrim.com.au [email protected]