What to do on the Sunshine Coast

A Montville holiday is a hinterland experience imbued with complete quality, fusing wonderful cultural pursuits with spectacular natural wonders.

First settled in 1887, it has grown into a thriving shopping village with a wonderful array of quality art galleries, stylish cafes and restaurants, gift shops and beautiful fashion stores, set in the picturesque surroundings of a shady tree-lined street with incredible views all the way down to the coast.

Don’t miss the thriving village with its quaint European architecture and unique character. Some might say Montville is the creative soul of the region with a myriad of art galleries, pottery studios, craft cottages, gift and antique shops, specialty shops and more. There is a myriad of things to do in Montville, Flaxton, Maleny and the rest of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. 

Warm subtropical rainforest, tall open eucalypt forest and picturesque waterfalls in secluded areas of the Blackall Range feature on this 58.8km, four day walk, with bush camp sites. Day visitors can access short half-day and full-day walks within the Great Walk route.

The Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk winds through the scenic Blackall Range, approximately 90km north of Brisbane.

• Sunshine Coast locality map (PDF, 170K)
• Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk topographic map (PDF, 3.8M)

Travel on the Bruce Highway (M1) and take the Blackall Range tourist drive (23) turnoff. There are scenic views of mountains and valleys to the west and the Pacific Ocean to the east.

This Great Walk was constructed with multiple access points to give visitors different walking experiences along the top of the Blackall Range meandering through three reserves. You can walk the whole track (58.8km) and camp in beautiful settings or do shorter sections as half-day and full-day options.

Doing the whole walk?

Start at the Baroon Pocket entrance near Montville and finish at the Delicia Road entrance.

Purchase the detailed Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk Topographic Map brochure to carry with you on your walk.

Also see: Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk entrances map (PDF, 204K)

There are four major access points

Baroon Pocket

Drive from Montville and follow the signs towards Baroon Pocket Dam via Western Avenue and Narrows Road. Turn right into the Great Walk (GW) entrance car park just before the Baroon Pocket Dam picnic area.

Refer to Baroon Section map (PDF, 208K) (access guide only).

Kondalilla National Park

Access is via the Montville–Mapleton Road, turn west into Kondalilla Falls Road.

Refer to Baroon Section map (PDF, 208K) (access guide only).

Mapleton Falls National Park

From Mapleton township turn west onto Obi Obi road and turn right into Mapleton Falls Road.

Refer to Mapleton Falls Section map (PDF, 220K) (access guide only).

Mapleton National Park (Delicia Road entrance)

From Mapleton township take the Obi Obi Road and turn right into Delicia Road. From here the Great Walk entrance is approximately 2km on the right-hand side of the road.

Refer to Mapleton Section (Delicia Road entrance) map (PDF, 287K) (access guide only).

Other minor access points

Car parks and toilets are available at the Mapleton day-use area along Mapleton Forest Road. There is limited space for car parking and no facilities at these minor access points:

• Mapleton Forest Drive
• Flaxton Mill Road
• Leafy Lane trailhead.

Car parking

You could park a vehicle at each end of the walk and when your group finishes the walk, drive someone back to the starting point to pick up the other car.

Arrange for a friend or taxi to collect you when you finish the walk and return you to your vehicle which you've parked at the starting point.

Make sure to remove any valuables, including garage door remotes and house keys, if leaving your car.

If you are concerned about vehicle security while you're on the walk, consider arranging to be dropped off and collected when you finish the walk. Arrange this with family or friends or use a local taxi service.

Travelling by public transport

Catch a bus or train to Nambour—see Translink website—and then take a Sunshine Coast Hinterland bus to Montville, which is approximately 5.5km from the Baroon Pocket entrance point, or hop off at Flaxton Barn, which is part way along Great Walk route.

Walk highlights

Enjoy walking through the ferny understorey of the forest in Mapleton National Park, Linda Garrett walk. Photo: Queensland Government.

You'll enjoy walking past waterfalls, peering into gorges and resting near rock pools. There's some stunning views and wonderful lookouts along the way. Notice the plant communities around you and how they change from warm subtropical rainforest to tall open eucalypt forest; all protected in three beautiful national parks—Kondalilla, Mapleton Falls and Mapleton.

There are more than 100 species of birds, about 70 reptile species and more than 30 frog species, so you'll have lots of wildlife around you.

The Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk's many access points offer different walking options.

• 58.8km long-distance walking with overnighting in the three remote, walkers' camps
• full-day walks with some comfortable holiday house accommodation nearby
• shorter half-day walks.

Camping and accommodation

Enjoy camping under the forest canopy at one of the walkers' camp. Photo: Queensland Government.

Camping

There are three, small, remote walkers' camps along the Great Walk track that give you a fantastic camping-under-the-stars (or under the forest canopy) experience. You can either set up in one of the individual camp sites that cater for one or two small tents or in a group area, a little distance away, if you're in a slightly larger group. Numbers are limited each night to keep the sites looking good and giving you a Great Walk camping experience.

Each walkers' camp has:

• a toilet
• platform seats
• a one night’s camping limit.

Bookings

Book your camping well ahead—anytime up to 12 months in advance—into:

• Flaxton walkers’ camp
• Ubajee walkers’ camp
• Thilba Thalba walkers’ camp.

Camping permits are required and fees apply.

• Book your camp site online.
• If you cannot book online, see camping bookings for other options.

Other accommodation

Commercial motel-style accommodation and self-contained cabins are available throughout the Blackall Range. Some holiday accommodation owners provide a Great Walk drop-off and pick-up service for their guests. See tourism information links to find out more.

Walking options

Stroll through open forest along this Thilba Thalba section of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk track. Photo: Ross Naumann, QPWS volunteer.

You can choose from a range of walking options—short, half-day, full-day walks, or do the entire four-day Great Walk. Purchase the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk topographic mapbrochure because it is your essential planning and walking track guide for this Great Walk.

Track conditions

The Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk area is managed to maintain its rugged condition. Be aware of what to expect and how to deal with problems. The track:

• is clearly marked with a generally firm and stable surface
• has some very steep grades
• has creek crossings, some of which have bridges
• width varies from walking track standard to narrow road width where it follows old forest roads
• traverses areas that are separated by rural and urban land
• follows footpaths and roadsides in some sections; take care and be alert to vehicle traffic!

During high rainfall:

• Do not attempt creek crossings; flash floods can occur without warning.
• Rocks are very slippery when wet.
• The track surface changes; it becomes muddy and slippery in parts.
• Walking becomes more difficult, more tiring and takes more time.

Track classification

The Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk includes sections of Class 2, 3 and 4 walking tracks based on the Australian Standard track classification system. These are set out below to help you plan and prepare for your group's Great Walk.

Class 2 track

• track surface is hardened or compacted
• may have gentle hill sections and occassional steps
• is clearly signposted
• no experience required.

Class 3 track

• formed track with some obstacles
• may have short, steep sections and many steps
• caution needed on loose gravel surfaces and at exposed natural lookouts
• some experience recommended.

Class 4 track

• rough track
• may have long, rough and very steep sections with few directional signs
• caution needed on loose gravel surfaces and at exposed natural lookouts
• for experienced bushwalkers.

Limit your group size

Do not walk alone. The ideal group size is four. Please do not exceed 12 people in a group. This allows for a more pleasant walking experience. Large organised groups and commercial users will need to obtain an organised event or commercial activity permit.

Short walks

View from Narrows lookout. Photo: Ross Naumann, QPWS volunteer.

There's quite a few short walk options. Be aware!

• Distances and times—walking only; not rest stops etc—are estimates only.
• Winter days are shorter; always plan to reach your destination well before dark.
• Mobile phone reception is not reliable in this area.

Also read:

• Planning your walk
• Walk safely
• Safety in parks and forests.

Half-day walks

Baroon Pocket Dam to Baroon Lookout

2.2km one way. Allow 1–2hrs. Class 3.

Baroon Section map (PDF, 208K)

The track starts at the Baroon Pocket Dam and passes through open woodland ridges. It crosses bridges and boardwalks over palm-lined streams. Narrows lookout provides a splendid view into the Narrows Gorge. Please stay on the boardwalk, further up the track. It protects the habitat of the hip-pocket frog Assa darlingtoni against trampling. The Baroon lookout offers views of Obi Obi Gorge, Baroon Pocket Dam and its catchment.

Kondalilla National Park to Flaxton Mill Road

3km one way. Allow 2hrs. Class 2.

Baroon Section map (PDF, 208K)

Follow the roadside signs from Kondalilla National Park to Flaxton Mill Road. Enjoy spectacular views over the Sunshine Coast and read about local history at the heritage sites along the way.

Mapleton Falls National Park to Mapleton National Park (Delicia Road entrance)

2.1km one way. Allow 1.5hrs. Class 4.

Mapleton Falls Section map (PDF, 220K)

Start at the Mapleton Falls lookout and follow signs through the picnic area to join the Wompoo Circuit. At the circuit's upper end, the Great Walk track leads west out of the park onto Daymar Road. Watch out for traffic where the track crosses Delicia Road and enters open forest to the Delicia Road entrance.

Delicia Road entrance to Mapleton day-use area

3km one way. Allow 2hrs. Class 4.

Mapleton Section (Delicia Road entrance) map (PDF, 287K)

The tracks and boardwalks lead through wet eucalypt forest and a palm grove. Walkers share the last 1.2km section with mountain-bike riders and horse riders.

Mapleton National Park protects a significant tall, wet sclerophyll plant community, with a canopy dominated by tall trees; mainly blackbutt, turpentine, brush box and flooded gum. The reserve provides habitat for three vulnerable and endangered frog species, wallabies and diverse bird life.

Flaxton Mill Road to Baxter Creek suspension bridge

6.2km return. Allow 4–5hrs. Class 4.

Start walking from Flaxton Mill Road car park. The track takes you through open eucalypt forest, past rocky outcrops and downhill to Baxter Creek with its beautiful waterfall. Turn around at the Baxter Creek suspension bridge and return along the same track back to the car park. You'll need a reasonable level of fitness as the uphill return walk is quite steep in places.

Full-day walks (only one-way distances shown)

Consider parking a car at each end of your walk or organise for a friend or taxi to drop you off and/or collect your group when you're finished.

Baroon Pocket Dam to Kondalilla National Park

• 10km one way. Allow 5hrs.

Mapleton day-use area to Gheerulla camping area (Sam Kelly Road)

• 11.8km one way. Allow 6hrs.

Mapleton National Park (Delicia Road entrance) (M4) to Gheerulla Falls

• 7.3km one way. Allow 4–5hrs.

For more detail: See Track notes below

Long walks

Enjoy a steep climb in the fresh air up Gheerulla Bluff. Photo: Queensland Government.

Try these long walks with just one or two camping nights; great for that long-weekend getaway.

Baroon Pocket Dam to Mapleton National Park

22.1km one way. Allow 10hrs.

Camp overnight at Flaxton walkers' camp and return on the same track the next day. See track notes below for more details.

Mapleton National Park Great Walk circuit

34.7km return. Allow 20hrs.

Set out for Ubajee walkers’ camp for the first night and Thilba Thalba for the second. See track notes below for more details.

The entire Great Walk!

Purchase a copy of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk topographic map brochure before embarking on this 58.8km Great Walk that takes at least four days to complete.

Track notes

The Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk is identified by four main sections.

Section 1: Baroon Pocket Dam (M1) to Flaxton walkers’ camp

Total distance: 16.1km one way. Allow 7hrs.

1st leg: Baroon Pocket Dam to Baroon lookout

• 2.2 km one way. Allow 1–2 hrs. Class 3.

The Great Walk track starts at the Baroon Pocket Dam and passes through open woodland ridges. It crosses bridges and boardwalks over palm-lined streams. A short spur track leads to Obi Obi Creek, 265m from the start. Another spur track, 225m long, leads to Narrows lookout, which provides a splendid view over the Narrows Gorge. The main track continues up a ridge to a large gully. Stay on the boardwalk, further up the track. It protects the habitat of the hip-pocket frog Assa darlingtoni from being trampled. Baroon lookout offers spectacular views of Obi Obi Gorge, Baroon Pocket Dam and its catchment.

2nd leg: Baroon lookout to Kondalilla National Park day-use area (M2)

• 9.2km one way. Allow 5–6hrs. Class 3 and 4.

This challenging section takes in rainforest patches in the deeper valleys and the beauty of Kondalilla Falls. The track leads from Baroon lookout down a steep slope to the banks of Obi Obi Creek. The natural-surface track crosses many of the creek's feeder gullies as it winds alongside 'The Obi' to the junction with Skene Creek. This section of track ends at the day-use area and is a good place to arrange for your transport to pick you up after your day's walk.

3rd leg: Kondalilla National Park (M2) to Flaxton walkers’ camp

• 4.7km one way. Allow 2–3hrs. Class 3.

This leg of the walk follows the road system connecting Kondalilla National Park to Flaxton walkers’ camp. Walk east along the footpath on Falls Road to the intersection with Montville–Mapleton Road, which is the main road across the Blackall Range. Head north along the road to Flaxton Mill Road and follow this road to the Great Walks entrance. Then follow the Great Walk track for 2km to the Flaxton walkers’ camp.

Section 2: Flaxton walkers’ camp to Ubajee walkers’ camp

Total distance: 13.1km one way. Allow 7hrs. Class 3 and 4.

1st leg: Flaxton walkers’ camp to Mapleton Falls National Park (M3)

• 5.9km one way. Allow 2–3hrs.

Leave the Flaxton walkers’ camp and follow a fire management trail. The track heads north down a very steep slope with many rocky outcrops. The walking track veers off the fire management trail and continues down the valley. Be careful, here, to stay on the track to avoid loose rocks and steep drop-offs.

The track passes from open forest to rainforest on the lower slopes, before entering a piccabeen palm forest on Baxter Creek’s banks. You'll see many epiphytes—plants that grow on other plants, but don't take nutrients or water from them—such as, staghorns, elkhorns and crow's nest ferns. Follow the track to the rock-strewn creek, where there's another short track leading to the waterfall’s base.

Cross the creek via the suspension bridge, then head back up the steep slope to join Obi Obi Road. Continue west along the footpath on Obi Obi Road and then the footpath along Mapleton Falls Road to get to Mapleton Falls National Park.

2nd leg: Mapleton Falls National Park (M3) to Mapleton National Park (M4: Delicia Road entrance)

• 2.1km one way. Allow 1.5km.

Take the Wompoo Circuit track from the lookout at Mapleton Falls National Park. Look for and take the Great Walk track, at the upper end of the circuit, to head west and then out of the park, for 400m along Daymar Road. Walk straight across Delicia Road and enter open sclerophyll forest. The M4 meeting point (Delicia Road entrance) is only 500m.

3rd leg: Mapleton National Park (M4: Delicia Road entrance) to Ubajee walkers’ camp

• 5.1km one way. Allow 2–3hrs.

Follow the Linda Garrett track along the headwaters of Gheerulla Creek. The track joins the firebreak system and a multi-use track network. Walkers need to follow the Great Walk signs, but be aware that you'll share the first 2.3km of this track with mountain-bike riders and horse riders. The Great Walk leaves the multi-use track to access Ubajee walkers’ camp that’s situated at the Gheerulla Valley’s edge. There's impressive views down the Gheerulla Valley from the nearby Ubajee viewpoint.

Section 3: Ubajee walkers’ camp to Thilba Thalba walkers’ camp

Total distance: 13.5km one way. Allow 7hrs. Class 4.

1st leg: Ubajee walkers’ camp to Gheerulla Bluff

• 11.2km one way. Allow 5–6hrs.

Leave Ubajee walkers’ camp and head north to Thilba Thalba. You'll notice the Great Walk track joins an old logging road at the base of the slope. This gradually leads uphill and over a ridge.

It's a very pleasant walk, often with lots of bird song near the creeks. The vegetation soon changes to a drier, open woodland as you get higher on the slopes of the lower Gheerulla Valley.

Get ready for a steep climb! The track heads away from the creek to a rocky ridge that goes up to Gheerulla Bluff.

Take care!

Flash floods can wash you away. There are several creek crossings on this leg.

• Don't attempt to cross Gheerulla Creek during or after heavy rain as it is prone to flash flooding.
• Don't even attempt to cross it if heavy rainfall is expected in the area.
• Expect to get your shoes wet crossing the creeks even in normal conditions.

2nd leg: Gheerulla Bluff to Thilba Thalba walkers’ camp

• 2.3km one way. Allow 1–2hrs.

The walk along the ridge through dry, scribbly gum forest offers views over the Mary Valley to Kenilworth, Conondale Range, Gympie and north to the Cooloola sandblow.

A spur track leads up to a knoll—Thilba Thalba viewpoint—with views over the lower Gheerulla Valley to Mapleton National Park’s western section. Continue on the track to Thilba Thalba walkers’ camp.

Section 4: Thilba Thalba walkers’ camp to Delicia Road entrance (M4)

Total distance: 16.1 km one way. Allow 9–10hrs. Class 4.

Shorter option: Thilba Thalba walkers' camp to Mapleton Forest Road 13.7km one way. Allow 8hrs.

Leave Thilba Thalba walkers’ camp and exit at the Leafy Lane trail head onto Mapleton Forest Road. Car parking is very limited, but a good place to meet if you want to arrange for transport home.

1st leg: Thilba Thalba walkers’ camp to Gheerulla Falls

• 8.8km one way. Allow 4hrs.

The wide natural surface of this track section follows easy grades over dry woodland ridges and moister forests of the valley heads. You'll see brilliant views of the Gheerulla Valley and beyond. The legacy of logging and land clearing is evident along the track.

Keep following the ridgeline. The track takes you to Delicia Road. Cross over and head east along the fence line which follows the cutting of the original Pioneers’ road, known locally as the Hindu Track.

The track crosses Delicia Road again at the gate and continues down through wet sclerophyll forest to a small clearing on the banks of Gheerulla Creek. From here, a 100m spur track leads up to Gheerulla Falls.

2nd leg: Gheerulla Falls to Delicia Road entrance

• 7.3km one way. Allow 4–5hrs.

Take the main track from the clearing and cross the creek (creek crossing 1). This heads up the ridge to the junction of the track leading back to Ubajee walkers’ camp. Walk on to either Delicia Road entrance (M4) or the shorter alternative exit at Leafy Lane trail head on the Mapleton Forest Road.

Planning your walk

Flatrock is a great place to rest enroute to Kondalilla. Photo: Queensland Government.

• Assess your groups’ abilities
• Prepare an emergency plan
• Check conditions before heading off
• Essentials to bring
• Emergency beacon devices
• Permits and fees
• Climate and weather
• Severe weather
• Fuel and supplies

The Great Walk is rugged in places and natural hazards exist. To enjoy a safe and memorable experience you'll need to be:

• safety conscious; trained in 'remote area' first-aid
• properly prepared; emergency plan in place
• able to navigate using a topographic map and compass
• aware of track conditions, weather, possible hazards (bushfires, floods)
• physically fit
• an experienced bushwalker
• with at least one other experienced bushwalker; never walk alone!

Assess your groups’ abilities

You can use the online copy of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk topographic map (PDF, 3.8M) to plan your trip with your group.

Never walk alone. Small groups of four people are ideal; no more than 12. Consider:

• everyone’s bushwalking experience
• fitness levels
• special needs
• contingencies—bad weather, illness, injury
• sharing equipment to lighten backpacks.

Prepare an emergency plan

This should include:

• each walker's name and their next-of-kin or best-contact details for each person in your group
• any medical conditions your walkers may have
• detailed walking itinerary
• entry and exit points
• contingency plan
• mobile/satellite phone numbers of each walker in the group.

Ensure you:

• are prepared to postpone or cancel the walk if conditions are too dangerous
• leave a copy of the emergency plan with each walker's best-contact person
• tell them about any last minute changes to your walking plans
• call them as soon as you have completed the walk
• tell them to call Queensland Police Service, if you are overdue and they suspect you need rescuing.

Check conditions before heading off

• Check RACQ for the latest road conditions
• Bureau of Meteorology for weather conditions and forecasts
• Check the park alerts for:
  • Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk
  • Kondalilla National Park
  • Mapleton Falls National Park
  • Mapleton National Park.

Essentials to bring

You must be fully self-sufficient. Local shops and facilities may not carry everything you need. Your camping equipment should include the following:

• navigation equipment, topographic map, compass and whistle
• remote area first-aid kit—and know how to use it. At least one person in your group should be first-aid trained.
• enough compression bandages for injury or snake bite
• a compass and topographic map
• your camping permit
• enough drinking water for your entire walk
• water treatment tablets or purification kit or a container for boiling water before use
• nourishing lightweight food and high-energy snacks
• clothes for all conditions—hot, cold, wet, dry
• strong, lightweight tent—no shelters are provided at walkers’ camps
• lightweight sleeping bag and sleeping mat
• sturdy enclosed footwear
• a hat
• sunscreen
• insect repellent
• waterproof bags for clothes and bedding
• sealable containers for food and rubbish
• small hand trowel, spade and toilet paper for bush toiletting or human waste disposal kit
• torch, extra batteries and pocket knife
• lightweight cooking and eating utensils and a washing up container
• fuel stove and fuel
• waterproof matches or lighter for your fuel stove—remember fires are not permitted
• a satellite phone, as mobile phone reception is very limited and, in most sections, non-existent
• Global Positioning System (GPS) device (reception unreliable) and extra batteries.

Remember that battery powered devices cannot be recharged anywhere on the Great Walk. Don't rely only on them.

Emergency beacon devices

You should carry at least one type of emergency communication device. A hand-held EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon) or PLB (Personal Locator Beacon) is recommended, however coverage may be variable. These devices can be hired from various outlets. Before you leave, ensure you register your EPIRB or PLB. For more information on how to obtain and register an EPIRB or PLB contact the Australian Maritime Safety Authority by phone 1800 406 406 (business hours), or email: ausbeacon@amsa.gov.au.

Permits and fees

Permits are required for camping in all Queensland national parks and reserves. You may be sharing with a few other walkers in the remote camping areas. Camp sites may be limited—book early. Bookings can be made up to 12 months in advance.

• Book your camp site online.
• If you cannot book online, see camping bookings for other options.

Climate and weather

Hot days and warm nights grace Blackall Range summers, while winter months bring mild sunny days and cool nights. Choose the best time of year to walk, but be aware that weather conditions can change suddenly.

• March – October: best time for walking
• September – February: hot, and can get stormy, especially in the afternoon
• December – March: the plateau's wet season, so expect damp to wet track conditions
• Temperatures can rise above 30ºC in summer and drop to 0ºC overnight in winter.

Be aware: Fire season! Tracks may be closed.

• September – February is wildfire season, so tracks may be closed for safety, due to the danger caused by wildfires or severe fire conditions.
• May – August is time for QPWS planned burns and tracks affected by the operations will be closed for safety.

Severe weather

Rangers may have to close walking tracks, roads and walkers' camps during extreme weather events. As much notice as possible is given, when closures are put in place, to Great Walkers who have booked their camping. When booking, leave your best-contact details. Before you leave home:

Check weather forecasts from the Bureau of Meteorology.

Check park alerts for current access, closures and conditions before you go.

Also check park alerts for:

• Kondalilla National Park
• Mapleton Falls National Park
• Mapleton National Park.

Fuel and supplies

Fuel and supplies are available in Montville, Mapleton and Maleny. For more information see the tourism information links below.

Walk safely

Expect the best but prepare for the worst—you are responsible for your own safety. Sections of the Great Walk are remote and isolated. Accidents do happen, even to experienced bushwalkers. Nature can be unpredictable—storms, fires and floods can happen in a flash. Be aware of your surroundings, stay alert, use your senses and exercise sound judgment.

General safety guidelines

• Obey all safety and warning signs.
• Never walk alone.
• Ensure experienced adults accompany children.
• Know your exit points—follow your progress on your topographic map and know your nearest road crossings or track exit points in case you need to get out quickly.
• Avoid walking in extreme heat or high fire danger.
• Avoid creek crossings during floods or after heavy rain.
• Watch your head! High winds can cause branches to fall. In extreme winds, camping is not advisable, and walkers' camps may be closed temporarily.
• Creek and tank water is unsuitable for drinking without treatment.
• Plan to complete your walk well before sunset.
• Be surefooted. Wear sturdy, enclosed boots or shoes.
• Stay on marked tracks or you might get lost.
• Keep your group together.
• Always watch for changes in weather.
• Know your group’s limitations and change your plans as necessary.
• Check your map regularly to mark your progress against features on the track.
• If someone is ill or injured, or difficult weather sets in, make camp and wait for conditions to improve or help to arrive.

Stay hydrated

Carry enough bottled water—four to six litres—for each day. Drink enough water throughout the day.

Things that sting

Avoid stings and scratches—wear protective clothing and keep away from stinging leaves and thorned vines along the track.

Stinging trees and wait-a-while (or lawyer vines) are common and they hurt:

• shiny-leaved stinging tree (Dendrocnide photinophylla)
• giant stinging tree (Dendrocnide excelsa)
• wait-a-while vine, also called lawyer vines, (Calamus muelleri) have sharp spines and sometimes overhang the track.

Animals: You may encounter wild pigs, dogs and dingoes—do not approach, encourage or excite them in any way. For more information see the be dingo-safe web page.

Snakes: Snakes prefer to avoid us and are rarely seen, but be careful.

• Prevent snake bite—always wear shoes, watch where you walk and use a torch at night.
• If you encounter a snake, calmly walk away or well around it.

Ticks and leeches: Regularly check yourself for ticks and leeches throughout the day and before you go to sleep. Remove them immediately—refer to your first-aid book for instructions.

Do not leave food for native birds and animals. Goannas, possums, kookaburras and butcherbirds have caused serious injuries because people have fed them or encouraged their attention. Native birds and animals need their natural diet to survive. Eating processed foods can cause them to become sick or die.

Bushfires

Bushfires can occur without warning and you must take measures to remain safe. Find an appropriate area for refuge according to the conditions, such as a road, firebreak, waterway or already-cooled, burnt ground. Avoid areas with deep leaf litter. Stay low to the ground if it appears less smoky.

• Early reporting can avoid disaster.
• Call 000 to report a bushfire and acts of arson.
• If phones don’t work and the situation is life-threatening, critical or serious, activate your emergency beacon device.

Be aware:

• Not every fire is a wildfire.
• Rangers carry out prescribed burns, usually in autumn and winter.
• Walking tracks will be closed during prescribed burns and emergency authorities are notified.
• Do not enter areas that are closed.

If it's flooded, forget it

Heavy rains upstream can cause creeks to flash flood, where a huge volume of water can suddenly wash down the creeks and gullies. Only cross creeks when it's safe.

• Do not cross creeks during floods or after heavy rain.
• Stay on higher ground and wait until the waters recede.

If you think you are lost

• Stay calm.
• Do not keep walking until you know where you are.
• Use your map and compass or GPS to find your position.
• If hopelessly lost, stay in one place, ration your water and food and try to contact help.

Emergency contact information

• Call triple zero (000) for critical, serious or life-threatening situations only.
• If your phones don't work, activate your emergency beacon device.

Walk softly

Use fuel stoves only. Photo: Queensland Government.

Feel privileged. The Great Walk is one of Queensland's natural treasures. Help to look after these special places. Be aware of and minimise your impact.

Tread softly and leave no trace

• Staying on the tracks.
• Leave no litter.
• Take nothing.

This area is totally protected. It is an offence to remove anything—living or dead—from the area.

Keep waterways clean

Obi Obi Creek flows into the Mary River—the main water source for Kenilworth, Gympie and Maryborough. Please don't pollute their drinking water with soap, detergent, skin creams, repellents, toothpaste, urine and food scraps.

Washing

• Do not let detergent, soap, shampoo and toothpaste get into the creeks.
• Don't wash in the creeks, as the sunscreen or insect repellent you're wearing will kill aquatic life.
• Use hot water and a scourer to clean dishes instead of detergents.
• Wash dishes and clothes at least 100m from waterways.

Bush toileting

Take it all out with you! The best option is to take a human waste disposal kit with you. They’re now available from camping stores. Follow the maufacturers directions and dispose of the waste properly once you've finished the walk.

If you have to bush toilet:

• Dig a 15cm deep hole, at least 100m from waterways.
• Cover all faecal waste and toilet paper with soil.
• Do not bury used women's sanitary products or disposable nappies; take them out with you.

Camping

Minimise your impact and try to leave the walkers' camps looking even better than you found them.

• Only camp in the camp sites at the designated walkers' camps.
• Don't dig trenches.
• Don't flatten or break any vegetation.
• Don't tie ropes to trees.
• Pick up even the smallest piece of litter.
• Turn off water tank taps properly.
• Check your site thoroughly before leaving to ensure nothing is left behind.

Rubbish—carry it out

What you carry in, you must carry out. There are no bins here; it's a wilderness walk!

• Pack light! Remove unnecessary packaging at home.
• Keep a small sealable bag handy for food scraps and rubbish as you walk.
• Don't bury rubbish in the bush. It changes the soil's nutrient and pH levels and can take years to decompose.

Also see: Rubbish: take it home—a short video.

Cooking—use a fuel stove only

Campfires are prohibited at walkers' camps. There are a host of reasons for this and penalties apply.

• Open fires increase the risk of wildfires.
• You'll trample plants searching for firewood.
• You'll remove habitat for small creatures that rely on logs and fallen timber to survive.
• Even bringing your own firewood can introduce soil pathogens, fire ants, toads and other pests.

Be a clean and safe camp cook:

• Either plan to eat cold foods or use a fuel stove.
• Use manufactured fuel appropriate for your appliance.
• Test your fuel stove before you leave home.
• Never leave fuel stoves unattended.
• Never use fuel stoves inside your tent.

Campers' toilets

All three walkers' camps have hybrid toilets, that use a specialised treatment process to decompose the waste.

• They can only decompose faecal waste, urine and toilet paper.
• Do not place any rubbish, tissues, wet wipes, plastics or sanitary items into toilets.
• Always close the lid after use.

Also see: Bush toileting and washing—a short video.

Do the frogs and forest a favour

Soil and detritus can contain fungal spores, particularly amphibian chytrid fungus and phytophthora root fungus.

Be frog-friendly:

• Clean and disinfect things before you leave home—shoes, tent pegs, camping equipment.
• Remove soil from your shoes and camping gear before moving to the next walkers' camp.
• Keep to designated roads, tracks and creek crossings.
• Keep waterways clean—no soaps, creams or insect repellents.
• Avoid disturbing rocks or trampling plants.

Also see: Stop the spread of weeds and pathogens—a short video.

Please don't try to catch frogs or touch them. Take a photograph and note their approximate sizes and identify them once you're home. It is illegal to remove or damage anything—living or non-living.

A significant number of frog species depend on this area for survival, including the endangered Fleay’s barred frog and giant barred frog, the vulnerable cascade treefrog and tusked frog, and the hip-pocket frog. The southern dayfrog and southern gastric brooding frog are thought to be extinct, as despite considerable research, neither species have been sighted since 1981.

Keep wildlife wild

Our food is bad for wildlife! It's unnatural and animals that come to rely on hand-outs can become aggressive to people, especially children, when they are scrounging for food.

• Never feed any wildlife.
• Keep food hidden in sealed containers in your pack.
• Never hang rubbish bags from trees.
• Leave no rubbish behind.

Remember, this area and everything that lives here is totally protected by law.

See the guidelines on caring for parks for more information about protecting our environment and heritage in parks.

Tourism information links

Contact Visit Sunshine Coast for more information about activities, tours and accommodation in this region. 
ph 1300 847 481 (within Australia)
email info@visitsunshinecoast.com.au

Visit Sunshine Coast manages accredited Visitor Information Centres across the Sunshine Coast that provide a range of local and regional tourist brochures and information, as well as a tour, attraction and accommodation booking service.

• 198 Main Road, Montville
• Settler's Rotary Park, Bruce Parade, corner of Reed Street, Glass House Mountains
• 7 Caloundra Road, Caloundra
• 77 Bulcock Street, Caloundra
• Cnr Melrose Parade and Sixth Avenue, Cotton Tree (Maroochydore)
• Cnr First Ave and Brisbane Rd, Mooloolaba
• Tickle Park, David Low Way, Coolum Beach
• Arrivals Terminal, Sunshine Coast Airport, Marcoola.

Maleny Visitor Information Centre
www.maleny.qld.au/
Maple St
Maleny Qld 4552
ph (07) 5499 9033
fax (07) 5499 9033
email Maleny-web@westnet.com.au

Mapleton Information Centre
Obi Obi Road
Mapleton Qld 4560
(07) 5478 6381

Kenilworth Information Centre
9 Elizabeth St
Kenilworth Qld 4574
ph (07) 5446 0122
email enquiry@kenilworthinfocentre.org.au

See Queensland Holidays for tourism information for all regions in Queensland

For information on road conditions:

Search for 'road conditions' on the RACQ (The Royal Automobile Club of Queensland) website.

ph: 13 19 40 for 24-hour road conditions reports.

Further information

Contact us

Great Sandy Information Centre
240 Moorindil Street (PO Box 818)
TEWANTIN QLD 4565
ph (07) 5449 8320 (for over-the-phone purchases of all QPWS great walks topographic maps)
Open: 8 am–4 pm daily (except Christmas Day).

Maleny, Mapleton and Kenilworth visitor information centres—for locations see tourism information links.

Book a campsite

Last updated

25 September 2017

Australia Zoo is a team of passionate conservationists working around-the-clock to deliver an animal experience like no other.

Steve and Terri Irwin's vision has always been to make Australia Zoo the biggest and best wildlife conservation facility in the entire world, and there is no other zoo like Australia Zoo!

Offering the most spectacular views of the heritage listed Glass House Mountains, the $4.7 million Discovery Centre features an elevated viewing platform and boardwalk and the Rainforest Education Centre with a combination of traditional interactive displays, multi-sensory experiences and exhibits. There is also a theatrette, a conservation research area, offices and modern amenities.
 
Go on a journey of discovery and be inspired as you enjoy a combination of traditional interactive displays, multi-sensory experiences and exhibits that will be changed seasonally.

Maleny State School captain Isobel Handley checks out one of the interactive exhibits inside the centre

The reserve is a Queensland icon with highly significant conservation values and has been a popular destination for residents and visitors for more than 50 years attracting about 200,000 people annually from around the country and overseas.

History

The Thynne sisters – Elizabeth, Mabel and Mary – with the aid of their brother Ted, originally gifted the reserve land to Council in 1941 in honor of their mother, Mary Cairncross.

What is there?

In addition to the new building, Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve comprises 55 hectares of subtropical rainforest overlooking the Glass House Mountains National Landscape. A remnant of the rainforests that once covered the Blackall Range, the Reserve is a living museum of diverse plant and animal life which will delight with its tranquillity and beauty.

Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve is committed to conserving and enhancing the natural habitat of the area, and providing a valued community resource for education, research, recreation and enjoyment.

Fast Facts:

Where: 148 Mountain View Road, Maleny,
Rainforest Walk hours: 7.00 am - 6.00 pm daily
Rainforest Discovery Centre hours: 9.00 am - 4.30 pm daily. Closed Good Friday and Christmas Day
New café: to open by mid-2017.
Cost: Gold coin donation appreciated
Wheelchair access: Glider Gallery walk and Rainforest Discovery Centre
Walks: Self-guiding or take a pre-booked guided walk with one of the volunteer guides
Other facilities: Picnic tables, shelters and playground
Not allowed: Please be aware that dogs (except for disability companions) and cats are not permitted anywhere in the Reserve.

Renowned for its locally made artisan treasures, there’s no other market quite like it. Mark it in your diary - open rain, hail or shine every Saturday and Wednesday.

Step into an ever-evolving collaboration of talented locals seeking to share their gifts with the world. The Original Eumundi Markets is the biggest and the best art and craft market in Australia.

Meet the talented hands behind handcrafted furniture, homewares, artworks, ceramics, cutting-edge fashion and jewellery, and chat to the farmers and bakers selling fresh produce and gourmet delights.

When you need a shopping break, rejuvenate with a massage, have your palm read or lose yourself in the stellar line-up of musicians and street performers. It’s an experience like no other.

Meander through some of the most exquisite gardens in Queensland featuring a panorama of waterfalls, ponds and colourful plantings, idyllic rainforest surroundings and views of the spectacular Glass House Mountains at Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World. Bring a picnic to enjoy by one of the many lakes or lounge under a tree with a good book and soak up the peace and serenity. Devonshire cream teas are available to paying garden visitors as well as those who aren’t up to a walk on the day but need a treat in a beautiful setting. Make time to visit the aviary and enjoy a fascinating presentation on the colourful native and exotic birds who are very likely to land on your shoulder.

Maleny has a charming village, with the gentle Obi Obi Creek winding around it, where you can spot the occasional platypus if you’re lucky.

There’s a special magic about Maleny that will cast a lingering spell over you when you visit. Stunningly green, undulating dairy country dotted with cows, is interspersed with pockets of remnant rainforest, and offset by breathtaking birds-eye views of the Glass House Mountains, creating an exceptionally pretty holiday destination.

But it’s not just the naturally refreshing views and mountain air that enrich your soul — it’s also the artistic and eco-conscious community. Maleny has a charming village, with the gentle Obi Obi Creek winding around it, where you can spot the occasional platypus if you’re lucky. Life revolves around vibrant Maple Street, with its organic cafes, eclectic fashion boutiques, brilliant bookstores and historic hotel. Lick a delectable gourmet Hazelnut Roche ice-cream from the award-winning Maleny Food Co as you browse the interesting array of village stores. If you like a drop of the amber, make time to visit brewpub Brouhaha Brewery for craft beer and cider - they also do a fabulous Sunday roast. 

There’s a thriving art scene here, with contemporary art galleries such as Art on Cairncross and artist’s co-operatives and bodyworkers offering a range of delicious healing therapies. Take a scenic drive, with your camera at the ready! Breathe in the invigorating air from the remnant rainforest trees at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, meander through Maleny Botanic Gardens, let the tension melt away with a visit to Spa Anise at Spicers Tamarind, have an afternoon dip at Gardners Falls, or kayak across the smooth waters of beautiful Baroon Pocket Dam in the rosy glow of the late afternoon.

The Wood Expo in May brings thousands to Maleny Showgrounds for a weekend celebration of sustainable timber and the Maleny Agricultural Show is a hit with the kids in May. The Arts Connect Inc. Open Studios event offers a rare opportunity to watch artists working in their home studios, and for a truly local event, the annual Christmas Carnivale sees the main street closed for a festive evening of rides, market stalls and live music.

Baroon Pocket Dam is a picturesque lake tucked away between Montville and Maleny. The dam offers a range of fantastic recreational facilities and you could easily spend the whole day exploring the shores and waterways. There are picnic tables, free barbecues and playgrounds for the kids, making it the ideal spot for a get together with family or friends. Take a dip in the calm waters, kayak the lake and its tributaries or simply cast your rod and wait for the Australian Bass to bite. The shoreline with its abundant wildlife, including koalas and kangaroos, is a paradise for bushwalkers and nature lovers. Hike through open forest ridges, cross bridges and boardwalks over tree-lined streams to Baroon Lookout, and take in the stunning views of the Obi Obi Gorge, Baroon Pocket Dam and its catchment.

Leave your vehicle in the car park on the banks of the Obi Obi Creek and take a short, level walk downstream to Gardners Falls, a hidden gem in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. You’ll pass a number of shallow rock pools which are ideal for smaller children who just want to splash about. Follow the bubbling waters downstream where the pools increase in size and enjoy a freshwater swim in the largest pool underneath the falls. These delightful waters are bounded by a grassy verge and backed by native forest making it the ideal spot for a hinterland picnic or a post-swim snooze under a giant water gum.

With rich pastures, a warm climate, a perfect balance between sun and rainfall, the Sunshine Coast has been one of the country’s most renowned dairy producers since cattle were first introduced to the region. Proof of the pudding, or perhaps the yoghurt, is Maleny Dairies which has kept the flag flying with its high quality output, and this year won an award for producing Australia's best full cream milk. A visit to Maleny Dairies will not only prove that milk comes from cows (not cartons) but that it tastes so good! The milk, yoghurt and ice cream can be tasted and bought at the farm shop. You can also join a farm tour, ride a tractor and see the cows milked at 3 pm.  Once you’ve tasted the raw goods, head to Maleny Cheese, where you'll see the cheesemakers in action and enjoy tastings in the café and shop. You can also purchase outstanding hard and soft cheeses, along with products from the award-winning yoghurt range. Make time to pop into Maleny Food Co and indulge yourself in the fromagerie, featuring more than 200 cheeses from Australia and around the world.

Stop in at Maleny Mountain Wines to sample a range of reds, whites, fortified and dessert wines from Australia and around the world. The friendly staff will find the perfect wine for your palate or the best drop for your celebration, picnic or BYO dining. If you prefer beer, make a pit stop at Brouhaha Brewery for some boutique brews and views. It's a cracker of a micro-brewery featuring 12 kinds of amber goodness for your beer-drinking pleasure. There's everything from stout (try the coffee milk stout) to pale ale. Food is fresh and locally sourced and the service is super friendly. TIP: graze on a ploughman's platter - made up of delectable local cheeses, smoked meats and pickles. If you'd like someone else to do the driving jump aboard a tour with Sunshine Coast Craft Beer Tours.

rts and crafts

The Sunshine Coast Hintlerland is a creative hub and you’ll discover quality art galleries and studios featuring works from established and emerging artists. Art on Cairncross is a fine art gallery displaying original art by artists from the Sunshine Coast and from around Australia. As well as very collectable paintings, you can purchase glass, porcelain, bronze and ceramics as well as jewellery and unique gifts. Visit the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Art Trail for more information. The local markets held each Sunday from 8 am to 2 pm also have an eclectic range of locally produced arts and crafts, antiques and collectables and handcrafted jewellery. 

Mystic Mountain Tours takes you for an adventure in nature, art and culture.

Driving through the Hinterland behind the Sunshine Coast, you will experience stunning views and hidden places, take in the atmosphere of unique mountain villages and discover world class arts and crafts, enjoy fabulous local food and wine, bushwalk through ancient rainforest and much more...

Winery and Gourmet tours, weekend escape packages, social clubs, groups or individuals from $35 per person. Views, rainforest, galleries, bush tucker.

We bring everything to you…

• Professional team of therapists
• Two therapists for a couple’s massage
• Fully qualified, accredited and insured
• Available Monday to Sunday 8am – 7pm
• Comfortable, soft, sturdy tables & clean towels
• Beautiful relaxation music
• Your space respected and left as we found it
• Individuals, couples, weddings, groups, corporate seated
• Operating for over 12 years

We Look After You

We arrive early for every appointment and talk to you about your needs.

We’re Interested In You

We listen to what you say and will provide a massage with the pressure you desire.

We have time for you

You pay for an hour and will receive a full hour of treatment time

We care about your health

We use natural massage oils, the purest essential oils and the beautiful Waterlily brand, rich with botanical ingredients and essential oils for our facials and foot treatments.

Our small team of qualified therapists are chosen for their compassion for people. They enjoy what they do and want you to enjoy your massage experience.

Group bookings are easy with a Temple Massage team.  Let us help you organise a package to suit all your guests. 

We Look After You

We arrive early for every appointment and talk to you about your needs.

We’re Interested In You

We listen to what you say and will provide a massage with the pressure you desire.

We have time for you

You pay for an hour and will receive a full hour of treatment time

We care about your health

We use natural massage oils, the purest essential oils and the beautiful Waterlily brand, rich with botanical ingredients and essential oils for our facials and foot treatments.

Our small team of qualified therapists are chosen for their compassion for people. They enjoy what they do and want you to enjoy your massage experience.

Group bookings are easy with a Temple Massage team.  Let us help you organise a package to suit all your guests. 

Temple Massage

Owner: Julie Abbott

0481 846 064

http://www.templemassage.com.au/