15
Sunshine Coast and Hinterland national parks Journey guide Refresh naturally
Sunshine Coast and Hinterland
national parks
Journey guide
Refresh naturally
Listento the sounds of Australian
summer—cicadas humming, weathered bark crackling underfoot,
laughing kookaburras and waves breaking gently on the beach.
Hikefor days on a Great
Walk or take a short stroll to scenic
lookouts where you can soak up epic
mountain views and coastal scenery.
Venturedeep into the green hinterland,
beneath ancient trees and rainforest vines, letting nature’s healing power
rejuvenate your spirit.
Seekadventure—at your own pace, in your own style. Paddle a canoe up-river,
rumble down 4WD roads, dip your toes in cool rainforest
pools or relax with a gourmet picnic beside a waterfall.
Recaptureyour childhood on a camping
adventure, toasting marshmallows around
a campfire and searching for shooting stars in the night sky.
Appreciatestories of the Aboriginal people
of this land. Imagine a traditional lifestyle of hunting and gathering
this rich coastal bounty—feasts and ceremonies bringing people together.
Photos (clockwise from top left): © Tourism and Events Qld; © Matthew Stewart; © Tourism and Events Qld; © Ben Edmonds Photography; Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt; © Ben Edmonds Photography
Parks at a glance W
heel
chai
r ac
cess
Toile
ts
Cam
ping
Cam
pfire
s
Shor
t wal
ks
Hik
ing
Sum
mit
ro
utes
Picn
ic
faci
litie
s
Four
-whe
el
driv
ing
Mou
ntai
n bi
king
Hor
seri
ding
Scub
a di
ving
Amamoor SF u v
Beerburrum & Beerwah SFs v l
Bellthorpe NP v l
Brooyar SF v l
Conondale NP v lCurrimundi Lake (Kathleen McArthur) CPDularcha NP £
Eumundi CP £
Ex-HMAS Brisbane CP
Glass House Mountains NP
Imbil SF v £
Jimna SF v l
Kondalilla NP ©Parklands CP
Mapleton NP £
Mapleton Falls NP
Mooloolah River NP
Mount Coolum NP
Noosa NP
Tewantin NP l
Tuchekoi NP v l
Weyba Creek CP
Woondum NP ll On Horse Riding Trail Network only. For maps visit npsr.qld.gov.au/experiences/horse-trails £ On Horse Riding Trail Network and shared trails with walkers and bike riders u At Cedar Grove camping area only
Wheelchair-assisted access only v On management roads and shared trails only unless otherwise signed © Great Walk walkers’ camp only
Contents Parks at a glance ............................................................................... 2
Welcome .............................................................................................3
Be refreshed .......................................................................................3
Map of Sunshine Coast and Hinterland ....................................... 4
Publication maps legend ................................................................. 4
Plan your getaway .............................................................................5
Choose your adventure ............................................................... 6–7
Track and trail classifications ......................................................... 7
Noosa National Park ....................................................................8–9
Tewantin National Park ................................................................ 10
Eumundi Conservation Park ......................................................... 11
Mount Coolum National Park ........................................................ 12
Currimundi Lake (Kathleen McArthur) Conservation Park .... 13
Glass House Mountains National Park ............................... 14–15
Kondalilla National Park .............................................................. 16
Mapleton Falls National Park ..................................................... 17
Mapleton National Park......................................................... 18–19
Conondale National Park ..................................................... 20–21
Imbil State Forest ................................................................. 20–21
Jimna State Forest ................................................................ 22–23
Amamoor State Forest ......................................................... 22–23
Bellthorpe National Park ............................................................ 24
Great Walks ...................................................................................25
Camping. Be safe. Be responsible ...................................... 26–27
Connect with Queensland National Parks ............................. 28
For a more comprehensive guide of the parks listed above, visit qld.gov.au/nationalparks Photo (front cover): Noosa National Park © Tourism and Events Qld. Photo (this page): Conondale National Park, Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt
Photo: Rowena Thomas © Qld Govt
Welcome to
Sunshine Coast and Hinterland
parks
Welcome to the stunning natural beauty of these
incredible parks! Immerse yourself in the beautiful
coastal fringes of rugged headlands, fragile sand dunes,
mangrove-lined creeks and blooming heathland, then
venture to the enticing hinterland for tranquil forests,
rambling rocky creeks, mesmerising waterfalls and
breathtaking views of ancient volcanic intrusions.
Come and see what we see.
Ranger Bronwyn McAdam
on behalf of the Sunshine Coast
and Hinterland Park Rangers
Jinibara people and Kabi Kabi people welcome you
to the protected areas of the Sunshine Coast and
Hinterland. Areas within these parks are of traditional
and contemporary significance to both groups, who
have an active role in looking after the values for future
generations. We hope you will enjoy your visit and
respect these sacred places.
Be refreshed!
32
Map of the
Sunshine Coast and Hinterland
Burn
ett H
ighw
ay
DularchaNP
KondalillaNP
MooloolahRiver NP
MapletonFalls NP
ConondaleNP
EumundiCP
TuchekoiNP
WoondumNP
BellthorpeNP
TewantinNP
Mapleton NP
ImbilSF
Brooyar SF
JimnaSF
AmamoorSF
BeerwahSF
BeerburrumWest SF
Conondale
Jimna
Kenilworth
Kilcoy
D’Aguilar
Caboolture
Gympie
Glastonbury
PomonaCooroy
Tewantin
Eumundi
Brooloo
Amamoor
Beerburrum
Glass HouseMountains
Landsborough
Maleny
Kin Kin
Benarkin
Teewah
NoosaSunshine Beach
Peregian Beach
Coolum Beach
Yandina
Nambour
Montville
Buderim MooloolabaMaroochydore
Caloundra
Kilkivan
Tansey Rd
Wide Bay Highway
Rainbow
Tin Can
Beach Rd
Kin Kin Rd
Cooroy Noosa Rd
Eumundi
MooloolabaRd
Caloundra Rd
Landsborough Maleny Rd
Maleny
Kenilworth Rd
Kilcoy Beerwah Rd Steve Irwin W
ay
Esk-Kilcoy R
d
Brisbane Valley Highw
ay
Kilcoy-Murgon Rd
Gympie
Brooloo Rd
Kenilworth
Rd
Bruce Highw
ay
Currimundi Lake (Kathleen McArthur) CP
Glass HouseMountains NP
Parklands CP
Mount Coolum NP
Ex HMAS Brisbane CP
D’Aguilar Highway
Bruce Highway
Bruce Highway Weyba Creek CP
Bay
Rd
BeerburrumEast SF
Obi Obi Rd
Male
ny
-Stanley Rive
r Rd
10 20kmScale0
To Dalby
To EskTo Brisbane
To Maryborough
Noosa NP
National park
State forest
Conservation park
Waterways
TownshipMountainGateLocked gateGridBridgeFenceRailway
Visitor information centre (VIC)Wi-fi access
QldParks–WiFi
Information
Toilets
Disabled access
Shower
Parking
Bus parking
Picnic table
Sheltered picnic table
Wildlife spotting
Scenic drive
4WD access
Camping
Camping—car access
Camping—4WD access
Caravan
Camper trailer
Motorhome
Mountain bike riding
Trail bike riding
(these symbols are used throughout this brochure)Shelter shed
Telephone
Tap water
Open fireplace
Barbecue—wood
Barbecue—gas
Barbecue—coin operated
Walking track
Hiking
Running
Lookout
Horseriding
Canoeing
Playground
Rock climbing
Abseiling
Dog on leash area
Horse paddock
Fire tower
Airport
Surf Life Saving Club
Tank water—treat before drinking
Publication maps legend
HighwaySealed roadUnsealed road4WD road (all weather)
4WD road (dry weather only)
Management road Walking trackGreat WalkHorse Trail NetworkShared trail (walking, mountain biking and horseriding)Trail bike trailMountain bike trail
(Top right) Wildflowers blooming in Currimundi Lake (Kathleen McArthur)
Conservation Park; (below right) coastal heathland; (far right) sunset over Mount
Tinbeerwah in Tewantin National Park
Photos: (top and below right) © Ross Naumann, QPWS volunteer; (far right) © Ian Hallmond
Phot
o: ©
Tou
rism
and
Eve
nts Q
ld
Bushwalk in Noosa National Park
PLAN YOUR GETAWAYWhether you visit for a day or holiday for a week, you’ll be swept up by the Sunshine Coast’s laidback way of life. Kick off your shoes and squeeze sand between your toes. Bathe in the glow of morning sun and rippling waves—you’ll feel like a local in no time.
Best time to visitThe Sunshine Coast boasts a perfect climate almost year-round. Autumn and spring are the best times to visit, with day temperatures averaging 25°C on the coast and the hinterland tending to be a degree or two cooler. Summer temperatures can soar above 30°C with afternoon storms rolling in, so plan park activities for cooler, earlier parts of the day. During winter, daytime temperatures are still warm with 20°C averages on the coast. Light winter frosts can occur in the hinterland with temperatures dropping below 0°C, so pack a warm jacket!
Best way to visitThe best way to visit is with the freedom of your own vehicle. Most parks are accessible by 2WD, Bellthorpe National Park, Conondale National Park and some parts of Mapleton National Park are the exception and require a 4WD. Some coastal parks have bus services that stop nearby.
Add some local flavourMake the most of your visit and time your
holiday with a local regional event. Choose
from country shows, fishing competitions,
triathlons, mountain bike rides and races,
sailing and swimming events, and music,
food and cultural festivals. There is
something happening at all times of the
year, so join the fun!
Visit visitsunshinecoast.com.au/events
or events.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au
Guided toursIf your time is limited or you prefer
someone else to do the planning,
you can join a guided tour with
an experienced and friendly local.
From half-day visits to multi-day
excursions, tour providers cater
for special interests and can take
you to less-visited corners of our
parks. Visit queensland.com
for details of tour providers.
When booking your tour, look
for the ECO Certified logo.
For more information visit
ecotourism.org.au
Explore tranquilly
4 55
Grade/ Class
Suits Track description
1 Wheelchairs with assistance and strollers Track has a flat even surface with no steps or steep sections.
2 Families with young children Track has a hardened or compacted surface and may have a gentle hill section or sections and occasional steps.
3 People with some bushwalking experience Track may have short steep hill sections, a rough surface and many steps.
4 Experienced bushwalkers Track may be long, rough and very steep. Directional signs may be limited.
Novice riders with basic skills and fitness Wide trail with a gentle slope and a relatively obstacle-free, hardened natural slope.
Experienced riders with moderate skills and fitness Trail with obstacles, variable surface and moderate slope. May include steep sections.
Novice riders and horses with a basic level of skill and fitness Wide trail with a gentle slope and a relatively obstacle-free, hardened, natural surface.
Experienced riders and horses with moderate skills and fitness Trail with obstacles, variable surface and moderate slope.
Track and trail classifications
(Left) Shimmering sundew flowers in Currimundi Lake (Kathleen McArthur) Conservation Park; (above) spot platypus in Yabba Creek, Jimna State Forest; (right) giant flooded gum in Tewantin National Park; (far right) © Strangler Cairn in Conondale National Park
Photos: (left) © Ross Naumann, QPWS volunteer; (above) Maxime Coquard © Qld Govt; (right) © Sarah Naumann, QPWS volunteer; (far right) Omar Bakhach © Qld Govt
Eastern grey kangaroos laze in Jimna State Forest
Photo: (right) © Ross Naumann, QPWS volunteer
If you’re travelling to the region for the first time, choosing where to go is easy. There’s something for every visitor.
Noosa to Coolum Pick a spot high on the foreshore on a bushwalk through the Noosa Headland section of popular Noosa National Park and watch dolphins ride rolling waves and humpback whales breach on the horizon (between June and November).
If you’re keen to get off the beaten track, take a short drive to Tewantin National Park, or Eumundi or Parklands conservation parks, where forest trails beckon walkers, mountain bike riders and horseriders.
Coolum to Caloundra A hop, skip and a jump from Marcoola lies the imposing dome of Mount Coolum National Park. Walk up many steps to the summit and admire spectacular ocean views.
Unwind on a tranquil springtime ramble through flowering coastal heath at Currimundi Lake (Kathleen McArthur) Conservation Park, where local birdlife welcomes you with song.
Escape adventurously
CHOOSE YOUR ADVENTUREDiverse as they are beautiful, parks of the Sunshine Coast will spoil you for choice. Perfect strips of sandy beaches, open forest trails, cool hinterland rainforest and rushing cascades set the scene for relaxed outdoor adventure.
Phot
o: ©
Tou
rism
and
Eve
nts Q
ld
The view from Mount Ngungun, Glass House Mountains National Park
The HinterlandDiscover mysterious and dramatic peaks at Glass House Mountains National Park, rewarding seasoned rock climbers with spectacular views in all directions.
Continue your hinterland adventure on the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk. Choose to spend one or multiple days immersed in nature with just you and the wild residents for company.
Blackall RangesVisit the rolling hills behind the coast where quaint villages, organic cafes, galleries, vibrant rainforests and breathtaking waterfalls will delight you. Discover the magical beauty of Kondalilla National Park and Mapleton Falls National Park, walking under a verdant shady canopy. Four-wheel drive past rustic countryside, through Mapleton National Park to Point Glorious with magical views of southern Cooloola and Lake Cootharaba.
To the westIf you are looking for a little more adventure, take a short break and make full use of your 4WD, exploring roads through the rugged Conondale Ranges, where the everyday seems a lifetime away.
Discover creek-side camping, horse trails and roads for mountain bike adventure in Jimna, Imbil and Amamoor state forests. Also a superb camping destination, Conondale National Park features the built public art of world-renowned artist, Andy Goldsworthy—behold his egg-shaped sculpture called © Strangler Cairn.
Continue your adventure in the Conondale Range tackling a half-day, full-day or multi-day bushwalk on the Conondale Range Great Walk. Travel through a variety of landscapes, taking time to unwind at the Great Walk camp sites.
Picnic beside the beautiful rock pool at Stony Creek day-use area in Bellthorpe National Park, and listen to the gentle sounds of cascading water.
Parks where you can:Go four-wheel drivingBellthorpe, Conondale, Imbil
Feel the ocean breeze Noosa, Mount Coolum, Currimundi Lake
Delight in spectacular viewsMount Coolum, Tewantin, Glass House
Mountains, Noosa
Find a perfect picnic spotMapleton, Mapleton Falls, Imbil,
Conondale
Witness majestic waterfallsKondalilla, Sunshine Coast Hinterland
Great Walk, Conondale Range Great
Walk (Summer Falls walkers’ camp)
Scale a mountain peakFor walkers: Mount Coolum, Mount
Tinbeerwah (Tewantin), Mount Ngungun
and Mount Beerburrum (Glass House
Mountains), Mount Allan (Conondale)
For experienced rock scramblers: Mount
Beerwah and Mount Tibrogargan (Glass
House Mountains)
Camp by a waterholeConondale, Imbil, Jimna, Amamoor
Mountain bike and horseride on bush roadsTewantin, Parklands, Eumundi, Mapleton,
Bellthorpe, Conondale, Imbil, Jimna,
Amamoor
Go for a bushwalkMapleton Falls, Kondalilla, Noosa,
Glass House Mountains, Conondale,
Eumundi, Imbil, Jimna
See wildflowers bloomNoosa, Mount Coolum, Currimundi
Lake, Glass House Mountains
Encounter birdlifeNoosa, Currimundi Lake, Jimna, Imbil,
Amamoor
Immerse in culture and artConondale
6 7
(Above) Noosa Headland section; (above right) walking in East Weyba section; (right) Koala; (far right) tawny frogmouths; (opposite page) explore the headland on the Coastal track
Photos: (above and opposite page) © Tourism and Events Qld; (above right and right) © Ross Naumann, QPWS volunteer; (far right) Trevor Hatfield © Qld Govt
Peregian and Emu Mountain sections
Coas
t
EmuMountainSu
nshi
ne
Mot
orw
ay
Havana Road East
EmuMountain
section
Peregian section
David
Low
Way
Kanooka
Pacific Ocean
Peregian Beach
To Coolum
To Noosa
Tritonia DriveAve
200 400mScale0
5
4
Coolum section
B
Hastings StNoosa Pde
Noosa
Dr
Viewland Dr
Park
Rd
Mitt
i St
Beach RdDavid Low Way
Ben
Lexc
en D
r
Solway Dr Belmore Tce Th
e Es
plan
ade
Cooy
ar S
t
Whale D
r
Ente
rpris
e St
McAnally D
r
Laguna Bay
Tea Tree Bay
WinchCove
PicnicCove
Granite Bay
Alexandria Bay
LionRock
DevilsKitchen
Noosa Heads Surf Life Saving Club
Sunshine BeachSurf Life Saving Club
BoilingPot
DolphinPoint Hell’s
Gates
Lagunalookout
NoosaHeads
Emergencyradio
Sunshine Beach
Bryan St
Sunshine
David Low Way
Surf St
400 800mScale0
Emergencyradio
ArakoonCres
SeaviewTce
Dolphin Bay Dr
Parkedge Rd
StevensSt
MorwongDrive
Rise
Allam
bi
Karella AvePandanus St
3
Bicentennial Dr
21
3
3
2
2
Upper Hastings StBayview Rd
3 Swimming is not recommended.
High surf and dangerous conditions. Beaches surrounding the park are not patrolled by surf lifesavers.
Please note: Walking tracks are classified by a different number and colour system in the park to what is shown in this guide.
David
L
ow
Way
David Low Way
Emu Mountain Ro ad
Lake Weyba
PacificOcean
Sunshine Beach
East Weyba section
Peregian sectionEmuMountain section
Headland section
Peregian Beach
Coolum Beach
Tewantin
Noosaville
Noosa HeadsNoosa Pde
Eenie Creek Rd
Eum
undi
e–
Noosa Rd
Yandina–Coolum
Road
See main map
See main map
Sunshine Motorway
2 4kmScale0
Noosa locality map
Wind your way along the stunning rocky coastline, watching surfers catch early morning breaks, dolphins gliding through sparkling waves and koalas snoozing in the eucalypts above. Covering more than 3000ha, the park has four distinct sections and a diversity of landscapes for you to explore. The hardest part is choosing where to start!
With its beautiful and iconic mixture of beach and forest, Noosa National Park is a natural gem you simply must visit.
Phot
o: ©
Jam
es H
aak
Noosa Headland section, Noosa National Park
Places to go
Noosa Headland section
1 Palm Grove walk1.1km circuit (15–30mins). Grade 3Find relief on a hot day in cool rainforest with hoop pines, kauri pines and piccabeen palms.
2 Tanglewood walk8km return (2–3hrs); continue to Hell’s Gates and return via the Coastal walk for a 7.1km circuit. Grade 4Meander through rainforest and eucalypt woodland on this quiet inland walk to northern Alexandria Bay. Return to the day-use area on the Coastal track.
3 Coastal walk10.8km return (4hrs). 300m one way to Boiling Pot. Grade 11.2km one way to Boiling Pot. Grade 32.7km one way to Hell’s Gates. Grade 33.3km one way to the northern end of Alexandria Bay. Grade 44.4km one way to southern end of Alexandria Bay. Grade 45.4km one way to Sunshine Beach. Grade 4Follow the shore around several bays with spectacular coastal views.
Must dos• Start your day with an early morning
walk along the Coastal walk 3 , savouring the breathtaking view at Hell’s Gates.
• Walk through a kaleidoscope of colour in late winter and spring, when coastal heathland bursts into flower.
• If you have time, visit nearby Weyba Creek Conservation Park for a walk along the boardwalk to explore mangroves and discover wildlife.
Getting thereNoosa is 160km north of Brisbane via the Bruce Highway and the Sunshine Motorway. There are four main sections.
Noosa Headland sectionAccess the Noosa Headland section from the end of Park Road, Noosa Heads, or Parkedge Road at the northern end of Sunshine Beach. Laguna lookout is at the end of Viewland Drive in Noosa Heads.
Peregian sectionAccess is from David Low Way, 3km north of Coolum Beach and 3km south of Peregian Beach.
Emu Mountain sectionAccess is from David Low Way, 3.5km north of Coolum Beach and 2.5km south of Peregian Beach.
East Weyba sectionAccess is from David Low Way at Marcus Beach, 2.5km north of Peregian Beach. From David Low Way, turn into Podargus Parade and Calliandra Grove or continue to the Hawthorn Grove access point.
Noosa Headland section
Things to do Wildlife spotting
Look for lace monitors, honeyeaters and koalas in trees near the walking tracks and picnic area, or walk to Hell’s Gates or Dolphin Point in the Noosa Headland section to spot a turtle or see dolphins cruising the waves.
PicnickingHave a family picnic overlooking beautiful Laguna Bay with its sweeping views from Noosa to Cooloola. Picnic tables, electric barbecues, drinking water and public toilets are provided in Noosa Headland section at the end of Park Road.
Noosa National Park
Peregian section4 Ocean Beach walk
1km return (30mins). Grade 3
Walk along a boardwalk through paperbark swamp and sedgelands, down a sandy track through heathland and she-oak forests to the beach. Enjoy seeing splashes of wildflower colour and quirky-named dune plants like dune bean and pigface.
Emu Mountain section
5 Emu Mountain summit walk
1.1km return (45mins–1hr). Grade 4
Take a short, challenging walk to the summit (71m) for panoramic views over the coast. The track is steep in places, so take care. The montane heath boasts a colourful array of wildflowers as well as threatened plants, including the Emu Mountain she-oak.
8 9
0.5 1kmScale0
Sunrise Road
Gynd
ier Drive
Cooroy Noosa Road Beckmans Road
Tinb
eerw
ah Rd
To Cooroy
Wooroiday-use area
1
To Tewantin2
To Noosa
To Eumundi
Phot
o: ©
Ros
s Nau
man
n,
QPW
S vo
lunt
eer
Look out for colourful yellow and orange pea flowers in spring
(Above) Mountain bike riding on shared trails; (left) bearded dragon
Photos: (above) © Ross Naumann, QPWS volunteer; (left) © John Augusteyn
Seib Rdgate
Eumundi Rd gate
Allandale Rd gate
Hidden ValleyRd gate
Pryor Rd
Eum undi Noosa Rd
Allandale Rd
Hidden
FigTreeLane
Venning Rd
North Arm
Verrierdale Forest Rd
To Noosa
To Coolum
To Eumundi
NorthArm gate
Seib Rd
Yandina Creek Rd
Valley R
d
Valdora Rd
North Arm Yandina Creek Rd
Cattleyards & dam
1
4
32
4
1
2
3
4
LegendBlackbutt trailGeebung circuitFigbird trailIronbark trail
0.5 1kmScale0
Tewantin National Park
Phot
o: ©
Ros
s Nau
man
n, Q
PWS
volu
ntee
r
Mount Tinbeerwah, Tewantin National Park Phot
o: ©
Ros
s Nau
man
n, Q
PWS
volu
ntee
r
Walk or ride along Eumundi’s rainforest trails
Travel to the heart of historical timber-getting country, on hoof, foot or wheel, and explore dry open forests on the hills and moist tall eucalypt forests and rainforests along the creeks and gullies.
Imagine a past with voices echoing ‘timber!’ as huge cedar, beech, pine, blackbutt and tallowwood trees were felled in this forest during the late 1800s. Logging ceased in 1996 and it was declared conservation park in 2009 to protect the forest and wildlife. Walk, mountain bike or horse ride on a network of shared trails, with the piercing call of eastern whipbirds echoing in the forest and bearded dragons basking in the sunshine.
Places to go 1 Blackbutt trail Grade 3
2.3km one way from Eumundi Road gate to Seib Road gate
Pass through blackbutt, pink bloodwood and brushbox forest before taking a break at the old cattle yard and dam.
2 Geebung circuit Grade 3 3.6km return from Seib Road gate
6.1km return from Eumundi Road gate
9.3km return from North Arm gate
Explore hills, creeks and gullies along this trail through tall eucalypt forest, rainforest and open woodland.
3 Figbird trail Grade 2 4km return from Seib Road gate
3.2km return from Eumundi Road gate
10.1km return from North Arm gate
Travel through open forest and wet eucalypt forest on this trail.
4 Ironbark trail Grade 3 5.1km one way from Seib Road gate to North Arm gate
6.6km one way from Eumundi gate via the Blackbutt trail and then Ironbark trail to North Arm gate
Includes a 500m link track on Sunshine Coast Council land, which can be wet and impassable at certain times of the year
Venture through grassy open forest to sheltered creeks and gullies with swamp paperbark.
Enter a mecca for outdoor adventure! Nestled behind the glitter of Noosa is hilly subtropical rainforest, open eucalypt woodland and remnants of wallum heath, with trails for all kinds of adventurers.
Things to do Mountain bike riding
Mountain bikers can ride ten dedicated sole-use mountain bike trails, leaving from Wooroi day-use area. There are easy, intermediate and difficult trails to choose from.
Abseiling and rock climbingExperienced and suitably-equipped climbers can scale or rappel the cliff face of Mount Tinbeerwah behind the designated safety fence provided. Please only use the approved anchor points at the cliff top—never trees, fences or other structures.
Places to go1 Palm Grove walk
1km return (30mins). Grade 3
Enjoy a walk through the cabbage tree and piccabeen palm forests along Wooroi Creek.
2 Mount Tinbeerwah lookout track 1km return (45mins). Grade 4
Bring binoculars to take advantage of the spectacular 360 degree view from the summit. The beginning of the track to the first lookout is wheelchair-accessible.
Walk to panoramic views from the top of a spectacular volcanic remnant, home to swamp wallabies and echidnas. Wipe the sweat from your brow peddling mountain bike trails or complete your ‘mission impossible’ with a vertical climb up or abseil down the sheer face of Mount Tinbeerwah (for experienced climbers only!).
Must dos• Enjoy a forest ramble 1 —see tiny
pea flowers, slender sun orchids, jewel-coloured butterflies and alien-like fungi on the forest floor.
• Test your mountain biking skills on one of the single-use mountain bike trails.
• Capture a bird’s eye view from Mount Tinbeerwah lookout 2 .
• Visit nearby Tuchekoi National Park, which boasts a steep summit route for experienced rock scramblers.
Getting thereTewantin National Park is 2km west of Tewantin and 10km from Noosa along Cooroy–Noosa Road. The turnoffs to the two park entrance points—Mount Tinbeerwah and Wooroi—are from this road.
Eumundi Conservation Park
Must dos• Escape the summer heat with a
refreshing mountain bike or horse ride through pockets of rainforest, paperbark swampland and grassy open forest.
• Go birdwatching early morning or late afternoon and see fairy-wrens, honeyeaters, pardalotes and lots of other birds in the forest understory.
Getting there The park is a few minutes’ drive from Eumundi township via three access points—Eumundi–Noosa Road gate entrance, Seib Road–Verrierdale Forest Road gate entrance and North Arm–Yandina Creek Road gate entrance.
10 11
Phot
o: ©
Ros
s Nau
man
n, Q
PWS
volu
ntee
r
Heathland in Currimundi Lake (Kathleen McArthur) Conservation Park
(Above) The stair climb up Mount Coolum; (right) a peregrine falcon
Photos: (above) © Lise Pedersen; (right) © Ross Naumann, QPWS volunteer
250 500mScale0
To Maroochydore
To Coolum Beach
Suncoast Beach Drive
Toolga Street
Jarn
ahill
David Lo
w Way
Tanah St (East)
Tanah St
(West)
Mount Coolum
Drive
1
Rainbow bee-eater
Photo: © John Augusteyn
Currimundi Lake
PacificOcean
Bareki Street
Man
dra D
rive
Nicklin
Way
Coongarra Esplanade
Crummunda Park
To Maroochydore
To Caloundra
Mandara Drive
Gayandi St
AnunaSt
12
2
Coastal pathway
200 400mScale0
1
This park protects a significant area of montane heath on the mountain peak and important pockets of wallum, paperbark wetlands, open eucalypt forest and rainforest remnants that have otherwise largely disappeared from this part of Queensland.
Things to do
Wildlife spottingSee honeyeaters darting through the montane heath, while peregrine falcons, the world’s fastest animal, bomb-dive into the valley at up to 200km per hour on the hunt for prey. In winter and spring, migrating whales can be spied from the summit, breaching offshore.
Encounter a sunrise like never before from the impressive green-cloaked dome of Mount Coolum, 208m above the Sunshine Coast lowlands. With spectacular 360 degree views of the coast and hinterland, it’s time to brush off your walking boots, get prepared and start hiking!
Phot
o: ©
Tou
rism
and
Eve
nts Q
ld
Sitting on top of Mount Coolum
Must dos • Get a natural high on a steep trek up
the volcanic peak 1 , where large columns of cooled lava form an ingenious staircase to the top.
• Sit quietly and sketch or photograph wildflowers.
• Look for passing whales during the annual winter migration.
• For a different ocean experience, dive off the coast nearby at Ex-HMAS Brisbane Conservation Park, exploring the sunken bones of a warship.
Getting thereAccess is from David Low Way, 3km north of Marcoola and 6km south of Coolum Beach. Turn into Tanah Street to reach the car park.
Places to go1 Mount Coolum summit walk
1.6km return (2hrs). Grade 4
Climb through woodlands and shrublands to emerge in a sea of montane heath, a threatened plant community surviving on this exposed summit. This walk has many steps so make sure you are fit enough for the challenge!
Ranger tipNever attempt the Mount Coolum summit walk in wet weather—the track becomes dangerously slippery. Instead, admire beautiful waterfalls cascading off the mountain from safe vantage points along local roads.
Spy shimmering green, blue and gold in
the shrubbery—honeyeaters, rainbow
bee-eaters and wrens visit the heath to
hunt for their insect meals.
Things to do Canoeing and cycling
Perfect for the family, the safe, sheltered
waters of Currimundi Lake are ideal for
canoe, kayak or paddleboard adventures.
The council’s nearby Coastal Pathway gives
cyclists, walkers and joggers their fit-kick
with a scenic route around heathland.
Visit a living legacy—a family-friendly park reflecting the passion of local conservationist and artist, Kathleen McArthur. Walk peacefully through precious remnants of wallum heath for views of the lake and ocean.
Must dos • See the gorgeous patchwork of
wildflowers in late winter and spring —pinks, purples, creams, blues and greens form a rainbow-hued landscape.
• Grab your binoculars or camera and watch for visiting birds flitting through the heath.
• Enjoy a peaceful afternoon walk through wildflowers nearby in Mooloolah River National Park where yellow-tailed black-cockatoos, rainbow bee-eaters and ospreys take to the skies.
Getting thereCurrimundi Lake (Kathleen McArthur) Conservation Park is 4km north of Caloundra. Travel on Nicklin Way, turn east into Gayandi Street at Wurtulla then right into Mandara Drive and left into Coongarra Esplanade.
Places to go1 Heath circuit
1.4km return (40mins). Grade 2
A sealed path at the entry leads to a viewpoint over Currimundi Lake then the sandy walking track continues through woodlands filled with banksias, wattle, casuarinas and heath plants.
2 Beach access track 1.4km return (40mins). Grade 3
Meander through low-growing rainforest onto sandy dunes with spiny casuarinas and sword-like pandanus palms and witness expansive beach and ocean views.
Mount Coolum National Park Currimundi Lake (Kathleen McArthur) Conservation Park
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Ascending the trail at Mount Ngungun
Photo: © Margaret Bending
(Top right) Rock scrambling on Mount Tibrogargan summit route; (above) the Organ Pipes at Mount Beerwah
Photos: (top right) © Qld Govt; (above) © Ross Naumann, QPWS volunteer
Coochin Creekcamping andday-use area
Wild Horse MountainWild Horse Mountain lookout
Peachester
Beerwah
Mount Coochin
Mount Ngungun
MountCoonowrin
MountBeerwah
Mount Tibrogargan
MountBeerburrum
Mount ElimbahElimbahMount Miketeebumulgrai
Mount Tibberoowuccum
Mount Tunbubudla(The Twins)
Beerburrum
Bruc
e H
ighw
ay
Bruc
e Hi
ghw
ay
Donnybrook Road
Fullertons Road
Marshs Road
Roys Road Bells Creek Road
Coonowrin RoadBowen Road
Johnstone Road
Glass House Mountains
Sahara Road
Mt Beerwah Road
Old
Gym
pie R
oad
Roys Road
B
arrs R
oad
Old Gym
pie Road
Glass House Mountainslookout
Kilcoy Beerwa h Road
Beerburrum Woodford Road
Stev
e Ir
win
Way
To Brisbane
To Sunshine CoastTo Landsborough and Dularcha National Park
Beerwah State
Forest
Beerburrum East State
Forest
Beerburrum West State Forest
To GlassHouse Mountains Conservation Park
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LegendGlass House Mountains National Park
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2 4kmScale0
Be enchanted as you walk beneath changing forest canopies—see candlestick banksias blooming bright yellow, rainbow lorikeets peeking from tree hollows, and spectacular views that stretch to the horizon.
Did you know?The Glass House Mountains are evidence of igneous intrusions formed around 25–27 million years ago. Weather has long eroded away the surrounding softer sandstone, leaving behind the harder rock of the magnificent craggy peaks we see today.
Things to do Wildlife spotting
At dawn and dusk, eastern grey kangaroos and whiptail wallabies graze in the open forests. Look for blue-faced, scarlet and white-cheeked honeyeaters sipping nectar from heath wildflowers. As you walk along, smell the musky scent of koalas snoozing high in pink bloodwood and tallowwood trees.
Phot
o: ©
Lisa
Fro
st
Sunrise over the Glass House Mountains
Must dos• Drop into the Glass House Mountains
Visitor Centre for more ideas on places to explore.
• Visit Glass House Mountains lookout 6 to the west in Beerburrum State
Forest for a spectacular view of all the Glass House Mountains’ peaks or at the many vantage points along local roads.
• Behold the striking monument of the Organ Pipes—viewable from Mount Beerwah day-use area 5 —where volcanic magma has cooled and cracked into impressive hexagonal columns.
• Finish a day’s scrambling by camping beneath the stars at Coochin Creek camping area 1 in Beerwah State Forest, where you can cast a line and catch your dinner fresh from the creek.
• Walk, horse or bike ride into the shadows of a historic rail tunnel in nearby Dularcha National Park and imagine a time when puffs of steam and the sounds of ‘clickety-clack’ filled
the passage.
Getting thereThe Glass House Mountains area is 70km north of Brisbane. Follow the Bruce Highway north to the Glass House Mountains tourist drive exit and follow the signs to the park. Mounts Beerburrum, Beerwah, Ngungun and Tibrogargan have separate access roads.
Places to campCamping is not permitted in Glass House Mountains National Park, but you can visit nearby Beerwah State Forest and stay overnight in your tent, camper trailer, campervan or caravan at Coochin Creek camping area 1 . See qld.gov.au/nationalparks for more information.
Places to go
1 Mount Ngungun summit walking track
2.8km return (2hrs). Grade 4
Enjoy great views of Mount Tibrogargan, Mount Coonowrin and Mount Beerwah from the summit of this walk.
2 Mount Tibrogargan walking circuit
800m to Mountain View lookout (10mins); 3.2km full circuit (1hr 30mins). Grade 3
Circumnavigate the mountain and see it from many different perspectives. Stop at Mountain View lookout to admire views over Mount Beerwah and Mount Coonowrin. Follow the circuit through casuarina and melaleuca forest looking for yellow-tailed black-cockatoos and birds of prey soaring above.
BushwalkingEnjoy bushwalks to lookouts and through the forests around the mountains. For families, the Mount Ngungun summit walking track 1 is a challenging walk with spectacular bird’s-eye views of nearby Mount Tibrogargan, Mount Beerwah and Mount Coonowrin.
Rock scrambling summit routesExperienced and well-prepared climbers can access the summits of Mount Beerwah and Mount Tibrogargan. These summit routes are extremely challenging, with exposed rocky sections, steep cliffs and areas requiring rock scrambling and climbing skills. If you are inexperienced or have young children, these climbing routes are not for you.
The Jinibara people and Kabi Kabi people consider these peaks to be sacred mountains, not to be climbed.
Running trailsGo for a forest run on three running trails and a shared trail in nearby Glass House Mountains Conservation Park and Beerburrum West State Forest, just off the D’Aguilar Highway between Wamuran and D’Aguilar townships.
3 Trachyte walking circuit, Mount Tibrogargan
6km return (2–3hrs). Grade 4
Wind through open woodland and heathland between Mount Tibrogargan and Mount Tibberoowuccum. Enjoy views from Jack Ferris lookout on Trachyte Ridge.
4 Mount Beerburrum walking track
1.4km return (1hr). Grade 4
See rainforest with twisting fig trees and open forests on this steep walk.
5 Mount Beerwah day-use areaEnjoy a picnic with a view at this peaceful day-use area, only a 100m short walk from the car park. There are toilets and a picnic table available.
Glass House Mountains National ParkEmbark on a journey to the home of the Jinibara people and Kabi Kabi people. Imagine Lieutenant James Cook’s awe as he first glimpsed and named these glasshouse-shaped peaks during his travels up the coast. These same towering volcanic plugs rise dramatically above the surrounding scenic patchwork of pine plantations, bush and farmland.
SafetyNever attempt mountain walks or summit routes in wet weather—rock surfaces become dangerously slippery.
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250 500mScale0
Kondalilla Falls
Skene Creek
Picnic Creek
12
Echidna
Photo: © Meri Pilloni
(Right) Mapleton Falls ; (above) boardwalk on the Wompoo circuit
Photos: © Ross Naumann, QPWS volunteer
Pencil Creek
Peregrine lookout
Mapleton Falls
To Mapleton
2
1
100 200mScale0
Kondalilla—the Aboriginal word meaning ‘rushing water’—aptly describes the park’s main waterfall plummeting 90m into the rainforest valley below. Navigate the steep curving steps carefully down to the viewpoint to see the gushing falls in all its glory. Be captivated by the verdant rainforest buzzing with sounds and flickers of wildlife all around.
Things to do Wildlife spotting
Possums, pademelons, wallabies, goannas, platypus, echidna and over 107 bird species live in the sheltered rainforests of the Blackall Ranges. Watch for goannas and water dragons wandering the tracks as often as we do! Sling your camera strap over your shoulder and capture images worthy of David Attenborough’s attention.
PicnickingA 100m downhill walk with steps leads from the car park to a large grassed picnic area featuring barbecue facilities, picnic tables and toilets. The walking tracks start from this area.
Places to campNo vehicle-accessible camping is available in Kondalilla National Park. Camping is only permitted at Flaxton walkers’ camp —a bush camp provided especially for walkers on the 58km Sunshine Coast
Phot
o: ©
Ton
ya S
tone
Tranquil rockpool
Must dos• Snap a selfie in the subtropical,
boulder-strewn oasis at the base of the falls—well worth the walk down.
• Take a refreshing dip in the rock pool.
• Explore the nearby parks and villages or check out the Great Walk for next time you visit.
Getting thereThe park is about 103km north of Brisbane near Montville. Follow Montville–Mapleton Road and turn into Kondalilla Falls Road.
Hinterland Great Walk. For more information visit nprsr.qld.gov.au/parks/great-walks-sunshine-coast
Places to go1 Picnic Creek circuit
1.7km return (45mins–1hr). Grade 2
Meander through cool, dappled eucalypt forest with patches of rainforest and see an exquisite small waterfall and cascades. Linger to enjoy views over the valley from a lookout.
2 Kondalilla Falls circuit4.7km return (2–3hrs). Grade 3
Walk through rainforest and open forest to a cool rock pool at the top of the falls. Descend into lush rainforest as you walk down to the valley for the best waterfall view. What goes down must come back up! There are over 300 stairs on the Kondalilla Falls circuit so you need to be reasonably fit and allow enough time to enjoy this steep walk.
Ranger tipWhile the waterfall cascades all year round, it is thundering and spectacular during the summer rainy season, dying to a gentle trickle in the drier winter months.
Kondalilla National Park
Explore a magical landscape, complete with reflective rock pools, little cascades, twisting paths and tree hollow homes for local wildlife.
Situated in the heart of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, Mapleton Falls National Park is a place of intense beauty and natural treasures. Find a prime spot on the viewing platform high above Obi Obi Valley and admire luxuriant green rainforest and piccabeen groves below. To the right you can glimpse the top of Mapleton Falls as it begins its 120m plunge.
Things to do
PicnickingAlong with a wheelchair-accessible toilet, there are picnic tables and an open grassy area—ideal for spreading out a picnic rug or two and enjoying some downtime in the fresh air.
Phot
o: ©
Ros
s Nau
man
n, Q
PWS
volu
ntee
r
The view from Mapleton Falls lookout
Must dos • Have a picnic with your family and
friends, and some of the park’s furrier and feathered local residents.
• Feel the golden glow of sunset from Mapleton Falls lookout 1 .
• Be enraptured by the view over the Obi Obi Gorge and scenic Mary River valley beyond.
• Take a short walk on the Wompoo circuit 2 .
Getting thereFrom Brisbane, travel 105km north along the Bruce Highway to Nambour, then travel 11km west to Mapleton. Turn left onto Obi Obi Road and right into Mapleton Falls Road to the signposted park turn-off.
Places to go1 Mapleton Falls lookout
50m return (5mins). Grade 2
Look for peregrine falcons soaring near the cliff edges of Mapleton Falls to their roosting sites.
2 Wompoo circuit 1.3km return (45mins). Grade 2
Wind through rainforest and eucalypt forest with teasing glimpses of the vast mountain ranges stretching grandly west. Peregrine lookout is the perfect spot to let the serenity of the Obi Obi Valley wash over you.
Mapleton Falls National ParkEnter shadowy forest where peace is only punctuated by the booming ‘wallack-a-woo’ and ‘book-a-rook’ of wompoo fruit-doves calling from the treetops.
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1
Mapleton Falls Great Walk entrance
Kondalilla Great Walk entrance
Baroon Pocket Great Walk entrance
Delicia Road Great Walk entrance
PoonaDam
WappaDam
LakeBaroon
CooloolabinDam
GheerullaFalls
Mary River
Obi O
b i C k
Gheerulla Ck
1
23
Yandina
Bruce Highw
ay
NambourMapleton
Point GloriousEumundi
Flaxton
Montville
KondalillaNational
Park
Mapleton FallsNational Park
MapletonNational Park
Mapleton Conservation
Park
Gheerulla Sam Ke lly
Buckby R d
Point Glo
rious
Rd
Browns Creek Rd
Cooloola bin Rd
Image Flat Rd
Nambour−Mapleton Rd
Map
leto
n Fo
rest
Dr
Eum
undi
−Ken
ilwort
h Rd
Kenilworth Skyring
Baxter Creek
To CooroyTo Noosa
To Eumundi
To Kenilworth
To Maleny
Creek Rd
Delicia Rd
Road
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2 4kmScale0
ToBrisbane
Thilba Thalba walkers' camp Ubajee walkers' camp
Flaxton walkers' camp
See trailmap
Gheerullatrail bike
circuit
Mapleton day-use area
Explore tall rainforest
Photo: © Ross Naumann, QPWS volunteer
Danger Stay behind fences and follow all warning signs. A number of people have died or been permanently paralysed after slipping over waterfalls in these parks.
Mapleton day-use
area
KureelpaFalls
Leafy Lanetrail headGheerulla
Falls
1 42
3
To KureelpaFalls Road
Gheerulla tr a il bike track
Mapleton Forest Road
1 2kmScale0
Mapleton National Park and surrounds
Mapleton National Park trail map
This park protects significant tall, wet
sclerophyll forest, home to two endangered
frog species—the giant barred frog and
cascade treefrog. Delight in small waterfalls
and creeks, fragrant scribbly gum forest,
and tall rainforest and palm groves in this
glorious hinterland park.
Things to do Scenic driving
Take the scenic route along Mapleton
Forest Road starting just north of
Mapleton township, passing Cooloolabin
Dam leading to Point Glorious, which
has spectacular views of the coast and
hinterland. This forest road is unsealed
and suitable for high-clearance 4WDs only.
Mountain bike and horse ridingRide your horse along scenic trails in the
Horse Trail Network. See npsr.qld.gov.
au/experiences/horse-trails for detailed
information. Mountain bikers can also
access these trails, the Oaky Creek Lookout
mountain bike trail 1 and management
roads unless otherwise signed.
Trail bike ridingCatch some dust riding the 26km Gheerulla
trail bike circuit, provided for licensed
Mapleton National Park
Phot
o: S
teve
n N
owak
owsk
i © T
ouris
m a
nd E
vent
s Que
ensla
nd
View over Mapleton National Park
Must dos• Dangle above the forest while abseiling
from the grass tree-lined bluffs at Point Glorious, 400m above sea level.
• Satisfy your inner adrenaline junkie on the Gheerulla trail bike circuit.
• Laze in your camping chair beside Gheerulla Creek 1 and listen to the wind blowing through the trees.
• Bring your mountain bike and try some of the 30km of shared trails on offer.
Getting thereFrom Brisbane, travel 105km north along the Bruce Highway to Nambour, then drive 11km west to Mapleton. Roads in Mapleton National Park are unsealed—Mapleton day-use area is accessible by conventional vehicles, while most other roads require high-clearance 4WDs. Roads become very slippery in wet conditions so plan to visit in dry weather.
Get active and explore this park many different ways. Ride your horse, mountain bike or trail bike, drive along forest roads, climb majestic cliffs, or camp beneath the starry night sky.
riders using road-registered motorcycles.
Explore 26km of winding trail bike track
over hilly terrain with tall blackbutt and
scribbly gum forest.
Places to go1 Oaky Creek Lookout trail
19km return
Explore the different forest communities
as you travel along this designated
mountain bike trail, with spectacular views
of the Conondale Range and Mary Valley
from the Oaky Creek lookout.
2 Turpentine trail7.8km return. Grade 4
Pass through wet eucalypt forest
into scribbly gum forest with a heath
understory. Return along the same
route or via East Cedar Creek Road and
Mapleton Forest Road.
3 Piccabeen circuit6.7km return. Grade 4
Discover creek crossings and rainforest
communities on this trail.
4 Kureelpa Falls circuit8.5km return. Grade 4
Travel through tall open forest down to
South Maroochy River, taking a short walk
halfway to view Kureelpa Falls.
Places to camp1 Gheerulla camping area
Pitch your tent in the bushy setting beside Gheerulla Creek. Wood barbecues, toilets and picnic tables are provided for campers. Access to the camping area is via Eumundi–Kenilworth Road by high-clearance 4WDs.
Great Walk walkers’ camps
There are three secluded walkers’ camps provided on the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk—Thilba Thalba, Ubajee and Flaxton.
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(Opposite page) Crossing Booloumba Creek; (centre) Conondale Great Walk; (left) common jezebel butterfly
Photos: (opposite page) © Ben Edmonds Photography; (centre and left) Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt
Imbil StateForest
CharlieMorelandcamping andday-use area
Booloumba Creekday-use area
Mt Allan
ConondaleNational
Park
MalenyNational
ParkBooloumbaFalls
Artists cascades
GoldMine
PetersCreek
SummerFalls
Su
nday
Creek Rd
Booloumba Creek Rd
Eastern Mary R iv er Rd
Mal
eny–
Keni
lwor
th R
d
Maleny –Ken
ilwor
th R
d
G rigor
s Rd
Seeinset
To BellthorpeTo Kilcoy
To Gympie
ToJimna
To Maleny
Kenilworth
To Mapleton and Eumundi
Refuse Transfer Station
2
1
Bridge closed.No through traffic.
1 2kmScale0 3
Jimna-Bellthorpe Rd
Wal l i M
ount
ain
Rd
Bool
oum
ba C
reek Rd
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Day-use area
Boolo
umba Cr eek Rd
Booloumbaview
1
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Inset map
Places to campConondale National Park1 Booloumba Creek 1 and 3
Nestled in lush rainforest beside a creek, these peaceful, grassy camping areas are for tent camping only (4WD car park nearby).
2 Booloumba Creek 4
This open grassy area has plenty of room for 4WD high-clearance campervans and caravans (4WD towed), as well as tent camping.
Great Walk walkers’ camps
There are three secluded walkers’ camps provided on the Conondale Range Great Walk—Wongai, Tallowwood and Summer Falls.
Imbil State Forest3 Charlie Moreland camping and
day-use area
Pitch a tent, or set up your van or trailer, at this shaded grassy camping area near Little Yabba Creek. A large enclosed paddock is provided beside the camping area for horses.
Places to goConondale National Park1 Booloumba Falls walk
3km return (2hrs). Grade 3
Discover this scenic creek’s cascades, waterfalls and rock pools. View the Breadknife rock formation at the junction of Peters and Booloumba creeks.
2 © Strangler Cairn6.5km return (2.5hrs). Grade 3
See the impressive hand-cut granite and metamorphic block © Strangler Cairn sculpture by internationally-renowned artist Andy Goldsworthy.
Imbil State Forest3 Fig Tree walk
780m return (45mins). Grade 1
Stroll through rainforest with enormous fig trees on this short circuit with interesting wayside signs. This circuit is wheelchair-accessible.
4 Mount Allan shared trail8.8km return (4hrs). Grade 4
Follow this trail through steep pine plantation towards Mount Allan in Conondale National Park. The last 300m to the fire tower, with stunning 360 degree views of the surrounding ranges, is a walking track only.
Conondale National ParkDiscover a subtropical playground tucked into the rugged Conondale mountain ranges. Magnificent forests, deep gorges and spectacular views make this 35,700ha park a wondrous place to visit and the perfect day-trip adventure for the whole family.
Enjoy short and long Great Walk adventures wandering through one of the largest remnants of subtropical rainforest in South East Queensland. Dip your toes in cool rock pools and let your tension melt away to the sound of rushing cascades. Camp overnight under the stars beside rainforest and mountain streams where frogs call into the night. Sense the significance of this landscape to Traditional Owners—the Kabi Kabi people—who have walked these high mountains and valleys for thousands of years.
Imbil State ForestSee beautiful rainforest giants with buttress roots in Imbil State Forest. Look for long scratch marks on tree trunks—a sign of scrambling lace monitors. Say g’day to kookaburras near the Charlie Moreland picnic and camping areas before heading out on an adventure through hoop pine plantation and native forest.
Phot
o: R
ober
t Ash
dow
n ©
Qld
Gov
t
Artists Cascades and lower pools in Conondale National Park
Must dosConondale National Park• Skim stones and splash across the crystal-
clear pebble-strewn Booloumba Creek.• Be humbled by the unique 3.7m high
rock sculpture © Strangler Cairn 2 in Booloumba Gorge.
• Stop at Booloumba Falls to admire the impressive outlook over the Breadknife rock formation, rushing cascades and waterfalls.
Imbil State Forest• Drive through rainforest, native pine
plantation and rocky creeks.• Laze beside Little Yabba Creek on a
camping holiday in Charlie Moreland camping area 3 .
Getting thereConondale National ParkFrom the Bruce Highway the main exits to the park are the Landsborough–Maleny exit or the Eumundi–Kenilworth exit, following road signs for Kenilworth. The turn-off to Booloumba Creek day-use and camping areas is 13km past Conondale township or 7.5km past Kenilworth. All park roads are gravel and suitable for high-clearance 4WD only.
Imbil State ForestFollow the Bruce Highway and take the Landsborough exit to Maleny. Continue on Maleny–Kenilworth Road and turn into Sunday Creek Road, 13.5km north of Conondale township. Charlie Moreland camping area is 5km along Sunday Creek Road. Alternatively take Eumundi–Kenilworth Road off the Bruce Highway and travel through Kenilworth to the Sunday Creek Road turn-off 7km from the township.
Things to do Wildlife spotting
Listen from your tent at night for the eerie squealing screams of rarely-seen yellow-bellied gliders as they leap from tree to tree feeding on sap oozing from nicks in the trunk. If you’re lucky you may spot northern brown bandicoots and red-necked pademelon, two of many animals found in these parks and the surrounding ranges.
Mountain bike and horse ridingHorseriders and mountain bikers can access scenic shared trails and management roads in Imbil State Forest and the Horse Trail Network in Conondale National Park. See npsr.qld.gov.au/experiences/horse-trails for detailed information. Mountain bike riders can also access management roads in Conondale National Park unless otherwise signed.
Scenic drivingPack your lunch and set off in your 4WD for the day, cruising along forest roads to either Booloumba Falls, Peach Trees camping area in nearby Jimna State Forest, or through the park along Sunday Creek Road.
Conondale National Park and Imbil State Forest
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(Right) Amama walk, Amamoor State Forest
Photo: © Ross Naumann, QPWS volunteerJimna State Forest
To Jimna
Returnwalkvia road
3
3
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Yabba Creek1
1
100 200mScale0
1
1 Peach Trees Road
Amamoor State Forest
(Above) Spot kangaroos in Jimna State Forest; (above right) blue-faced honeyeater
Photos: © Ross Naumann, QPWS volunteer
Big Baldy
Amamoor
Dagun
Amamaday-use area
To GympieMt Gentle Annie
Mt Wilwarrel
Little Baldy
AmamoorState
Forest
Kandanga
To Kenilworth
To Imbil
Amamoor C
reek Rd
Mar
y Valle
y H
ighw
ay
Poulsens Rd
Ama moor Creek
AmamoorNational
Park
Kandanga
Creek Rd
Mitchell Creek Rd
Kandanga Creek
Kand
anga
Creek
2 4kmScale0
2
3
Hap
py V
alley
Rd
Amam
oor Creek Road
45
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Places to campJimna State Forest
1 Peach Trees
Camp on a grassy area in the shade of
tall grey gums beside Yabba Creek and
see platypus at dusk and dawn. A fenced
paddock is provided for horses.
Amamoor State Forest
2 Cedar Grove camping area
Camp in an open grassy area surrounded
by riverine rainforest, tall open forest and
Amamoor Creek.
3 Amamoor Creek camping area
Enjoy a flat, grassy camping area surrounded
by open forest dominated by ironbark and
blue gum. Dogs are permitted here, but they
must remain under control and on a leash.
Places to goJimna State Forest
1 Yabba Creek circuit
700m (20mins). Grade 3
Cross a suspension bridge over Yabba Creek
and follow it before crossing again into the
camping area near the main entrance.
2 Eugenia circuit
2.4km (1hr). Grade 4
Explore Yabba Creek through open forest
to a scenic creek lookout. Cross the creek
and meander back along the opposite
bank, where lilly pilly trees grow densely. Be
careful after heavy rain—the creek crossing
may be flooded.
3 Araucaria circuit
3.5km (2hrs). Grade 3
Walk through open forests of ironbark and
grey gum, and dry rainforest with towering
bunya and hoop pines.
Amamoor State Forest
4 Amama walk
1.5km return (40mins). Grade 4
Explore lush rainforest with buttressed
trees, vines, ferns and mossy rocks.
Along the rainforest-lined creek look for
teardrop-shaped birds’ nests suspended
from branches.
5 Rainforest walk
1km return (30mins). Grade 3
Walk past large waterholes into subtropical
rainforest featuring large red cedars, figs
and a piccabeen palm grove, and tall forest
oaks along the creek. This walk starts from
Cedar Grove camping area.
6 Cedar Grove hiking trail
4.6km return (4hrs). Grade 4
Branch off the Rainforest walk through
open forest and hoop pine plantations.
Cross Amamoor Creek and return to the
camping area. This walk starts from Cedar
Grove camping area.
7 Amamoor Creek hiking trail
2.5km return (2hrs 30mins). Grade 4
Walk through open forest and dry areas
with an interesting mix of rainforest plants
that grow in poor quality soils. This walk
starts from Cedar Grove camping area.
Jimna State ForestExplore a rich green mosaic of pine tree plantations and native forest in Jimna State Forest, with its colourful history of gold mining and timber getting. Yabba Creek, near Peach Trees camping area 1 , is a great place for spotting birds and kangaroos. Explore the creek and discover its aquatic wildlife. Watch the water quietly around dusk and dawn to spot platypus.
Amamoor State ForestMeander through beautiful riverine rainforest, ironbark forest and hoop and bunya pine plantations along picturesque Amamoor Creek. This quaint and quiet park comes alive every August to the beat of the annual Gympie Music Muster.
Jimna and Amamoor state forests
Phot
o: R
oss N
aum
ann,
QPW
S vo
lunt
eer
Looking for platypus in Yabba Creek in Jimna State Forest
Must dos• Toast marshmallows around a campfire,
sharing stories from the day.
• Camp with your dog at Amamoor Creek camping area 3 … it’s a pretty unique experience!
• Continue further north to Brooyar State Forest and Woondum National Park where you can enjoy creek-side camping.
Getting thereJimna State ForestFollow the Bruce Highway and take the D’Aguilar Highway turn-off to Kilcoy. From Kilcoy, travel north 45km along Kilcoy–Murgon Road to Jimna State Forest.
Amamoor State ForestTurn off the Bruce Highway 20km south of Gympie and follow the signs to Amamoor township. The forest is 10km west of Amamoor along Amamoor Creek Road. Access is suitable for conventional vehicles towing caravans.
Things to do Mountain bike
and horse ridingRide horses and mountain bikes on shared trails and management roads. A designated horse paddock is provided beside Peach Trees camping area in Jimna State Forest. For information on the connecting Horse Trail Network please visit npsr.qld.gov.au/experiences/horse-trails
Scenic drivingHave a full-day 4WD adventure along picturesque forest roads, enjoying stops and shorts walks along the way.
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Elegant treefrogs
Photo: © Rowena Thomas
D'Aguilar Highway
Cove
Rd
Kilo
y Bee
rw
ah Rd
St ony Ck
Rd
Dunning
Flet
cher
Brandons RdBeaco
n Rd
Be llthorpe West Rd
S tanley R iver Rd
Sandy Cre
ek R
d
Nonmus
Bellth o rpeBran ch C ree
k Rd
Kirby Rd
Ceda
rval
e Rd
Mary Sm
okes Creek Rd
Plums Rd Gap Rd
McCaul eys
MearsLane
Cedar
Creek
Dog Rd
Goodla Rd
Post
ma
n s TrackStanley Riv er R
d
S and
y C
reek
Wright RdBeacon view
Woodford Folk Festival Site
To MalenyTo Jimna
To Beerwah
To Kilcoy
Lane
Lane1
Rd
Road
Road
2.5 5kmScale0
Rd
Rang e Rd
Photos: Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt
(Top) Giant water vine; (above) walkers’ camps have platforms, untreated drinking water and a toilet
Slow down on a Great WalkFor those wishing to really get to know the hinterland, two magnificent Great Walk adventures are on offer. Spend a few days immersed in nature with your walking boots and binoculars discovering the lush green paradise of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.
Phot
o: R
ober
t Ash
dow
n ©
Qld
Gov
t
Imbil State Forest
Conondale Range Great WalkExplore the rugged beauty of Conondale National Park along the 56km Conondale Range Great Walk. From the rainforest valley through deep gorges to the top of the range and back again, walkers will enjoy a challenging adventure across vast and varied landscapes. Along the four-day walk, stop at three camping areas, ideal for starry overnight stays within the depths of the Conondale ranges. On the final day you’ll pass the 9.5m high Mount Allan fire tower, offering 360 degree views over the country you have just walked.
Please refer to the Conondale National Park map on page 21.
Tackling a Great Walk is a memorable bushwalking experience. If you’re after something a little easier, choose short half-day and full-day walks within both Great Walk routes. Physically fit and experienced bushwalkers who are properly prepared and safety aware can bring camping gear and spend up to four days walking an entire Great Walk—really get away from it all.
Before heading off on a Great Walk be sure to research online, follow the Great Walks pack list, purchase a copy of a Great Walk topographic map and book your camping sites. For topographic map purchase visit npsr.qld.gov.au/experiences/great-walks/topographic-maps. Book camping online at qld.gov.au/camping
Sheltered pockets of vine and rainforest provide precious habitat for elegant treefrogs and whipbirds. Stand quietly—you might hear a male whipbird’s high-pitched ‘whip and crack’ call, closely followed by a female’s sharp ‘choo-choo’.
Explore rugged terrain framing picturesque cascades and creeks in this historic park with a forestry past. Rumble along gravel roads in your 4WD, tackling water crossings, hill climbs and descents into open eucalypt forest and rainforest.
Phot
o: ©
Jod
ie B
ray
Stony Creek, Bellthorpe National Park
Must dos • Refresh yourself in the deliciously-cool
rock pool at Stony Creek day-use area 1 .
• Imagine this place more than a century and a half ago when forest giants were felled to support the burgeoning colony of Queensland.
• Enjoy a low-range 4WD trip along Branch Creek Road with rocky climbs and picturesque creek crossing.
Getting thereThe park is about 85km north-west of Brisbane and west of the Glass House Mountains. Follow the D’Aguilar Highway west through Woodford township and take the Stony Creek Road exit, following signs to Stony Creek day-use area.
Things to do Scenic driving
Several roads in the park offer
moderately-challenging and
stunningly-scenic 4WD opportunities
for more experienced drivers. Some
roads can only be traversed in dry
weather so pay attention to the signs
and never cross flooded roads.
Mountain bike and horse riding Mountain bike and horse riders
can embark on an adventure riding
trails in the Horse Trail Network.
See npsr.qld.gov.au/experiences/
horse-trails for detailed information.
Mountain bike riders can also access
management roads in the park unless
otherwise signed.
Places to go
1 Stony Creek day-use area
Stop and enjoy a picnic and a swim at
this beautiful creek-side site—toilets,
picnic tables and wood barbecues
are provided.
Bellthorpe National Park
Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great WalkThe Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk is a 58km long, four-day walk in the Blackall Range, with bush camp sites dotted along the way. Take a journey to some of the area’s most scenic locations, including Baroon Pocket Dam and Kondalilla, Mapleton Falls and Mapleton national parks. Subtropical rainforest, tall eucalypt forest, picturesque waterfalls, starlit skies, local wildlife and spectacular scenery will delight you on this adventure. This walk can be done as a series of day walks. Please refer to the Mapleton National Park map on page 19.
These western trails are very steep and are only suited to very experienced riders.
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(Far left) Eastern spinebill; (left) giant rainforest trees in Imbil State Forest; (above) enjoy some bush camping
Photos: (far left and left) © Ross Naumann, QPWS volunteer; (above) Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt
(Above) Horseriding in Tewantin National Park; (right) take a walk along
Noosa coastline; (below) mountain biking in Eumundi Conservation Park
Photos: (above and below) © Ross Naumann, QPWS volunteer; (right) © Tourism and Events Queensland
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 obtain camping permits before you go online at qld.gov.au/camping
Phot
o: T
omek
Z G
enek
© Q
ld G
ovt
Coochin Creek camping area, Beerwah State Forest
Packing checklistq Adequate drinking water, food
and emergency supplies.
q Complete first-aid kit including sun and insect protection.
q Detailed map showing travel routes and distances.
q Campers: 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).
Your safetyIn dangerous high fire 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 a 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. Please bring your own clean, milled firewood.
• Avoid the spread of weeds by checking clothing and equipment regularly for seeds.
• Be frog-friendly—please do not disturb, handle or remove frogs, their eggs or tadpoles and please don’t disturb or remove rocks or trample vegetation near creeks.
• 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.
Drive safely• Registered motorised vehicles,
including trail bikes and licensed drivers, are permitted on forest roads, unless otherwise signposted. High-clearance 4WD and off-road motorbikes are recommended.
• Queensland road rules apply.• Avoid driving in or immediately after
wet weather.• Slow down at blind corners—wide-load
logging trucks use some of these roads.
Road sharing safety• Stay alert—horseriders, mountain bike
riders, runners, walkers and wildlife use the roads too.
• Be courteous—pull over to the left to allow vehicles to pass. For photography and enjoying the scenery, find a safe place to pull over or turn around. Do not stop on the roadway.
• Watch out for corners—stay on your side of the road. Avoid sudden slowing as the vehicle may slide.
• Obey road signs—speed limits apply. Vehicle access is not possible in some areas. Look for signs that indicate accessibility.
Ride safelyWhether on horseback or mountain bike, follow these guidelines to enjoy your ride and protect the parks.
• Always wear a helmet.• If on a bike slow down when you
encounter horseriders and walkers on shared trails. Give way to horseriders.
• Plan ahead—ride within your ability and according to track conditions.
• Ride in small groups only.• Avoid riding on soft, wet and
muddy tracks.• Carry a first-aid kit and mobile phone.
Be aware that mobile phone reception can be unreliable in these areas.
• Carry a basic repair kit for your bike.• Check whether closures are current
before heading out on your ride.
Be safe• 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.
• Never attempt mountain walks or summit routes in wet weather—rock surfaces become dangerously slippery.
Flooded road warning!Heavy rain can flood creek crossings in hinterland areas—check for closures. Some roads may be closed and areas may become inaccessible due to weather conditions, road maintenance or high fire danger.
• Obey all road closures—roads may be closed due to deep water levels at creek crossings, or wet and slippery conditions.
• Avoid flooded crossings as submerged obstacles may pose a hazard and traffic ahead may have created hidden hazards such as deep holes. Cross at your own risk.
• Do not walk into floodwaters—if in doubt, wait it out!
Travel wisely
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© State of Queensland 2017. Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service,
Department of National Parks, Sport and Racing. BP2159 May 2017, accurate at the time of printing.
Printed on eco-friendly paper to save energy and resources. Photo: Kondalilla National Park, Larissa Dening © Tourism and Events Queensland
Connect with Queensland National Parks
qld.gov.au/nationalparks
book at qld.gov.au/camping
facebook.com/qldnationalparks
@QldParks; #QldParks
For help planning your holiday, visit queensland.com and visitsunshinecoast.com.au
Useful contacts Emergencies: Call Triple Zero (000) or 112 from a mobile phone.
Road conditionsVisit the Department of Transport and Main Roads at 131940.qld.gov.au or phone 13 19 40.
