The best walks and hikes in Main Range National Park
4.8
(33)
457
hikers
11
hikes
Hiking in Main Range National Park offers diverse landscapes shaped by ancient volcanic activity, featuring rugged mountain peaks, dramatic escarpments, and ridges. The park is part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, encompassing subtropical rainforests, open eucalypt forests, and montane heath. These varied ecosystems provide a range of terrain and elevation for hikers to explore, from lush valleys to exposed mountain summits.
Best hiking trails in Main Range National Park
- The most popular hiking route is Mount Mitchell Summit, a 10.0 miles (16.1 km) trail that takes 4 hours 42 minutes to complete, offering rewarding views from the summit.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Mount Cordeaux Track, a moderate 7.8 miles (12.6 km) path leading to a lookout with panoramic views across Cunningham's Gap and the Scenic Rim ranges.
- Local hikers also love the Queen Mary Falls Circuit via Cliff Circuit, a 1.3 miles (2.1 km) trail leading through a waterfall area, often completed in about 36 minutes.
- Hiking in Main Range National Park is defined by lush subtropical rainforests, ancient volcanic peaks, and prominent waterfalls, with options ranging from gentle strolls to challenging multi-day hikes.
- The routes in Main Range National Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from more than 30 reviews. More than 500 hikers have used komoot to explore Main Range National Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 27, 2026
5.0
(6)
112
hikers
16.1km
04:42
440m
440m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
105
hikers
12.6km
03:38
330m
330m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.9
(9)
82
hikers
13.4km
04:04
470m
470m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
70
hikers
2.10km
00:37
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6.98km
02:52
560m
560m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Mount Superbus Trail is a challenging but rewarding bushwalking route that takes adventurers through lush rainforests to the summit of Mount Superbus. The bushwalk is steep and can be muddy and slippery after rain. There are fragments of an old plane wreck scattered off the track.
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The Antarctic Beech Forest is a rare kind of rainforest found in the higher elevations of the Scenic Rim. Full of tall, cool-climate Antarctic beech trees (Nothofagus moorei), which have remained mostly unchanged for millions of years, dating back to the Gondwana supercontinent. This thick forest provides plenty of shade and often holds mist.
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Mount Superbus is the tallest peak in the Main Range of the Scenic Rim in Queensland, standing at 1,295 meters. It's shrouded in the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests. The top holds a logbook in a metal box and some backcountry campsites.
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Set along the Mount Cordeaux Track, this saddle marks a flatter section between steeper climbs along the ridge. The forest opens slightly here, creating a natural break in the ascent with filtered views through the trees toward the surrounding ranges.
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At 1168 metres above sea level in Main Range National Park, Bare Rock lookout sits on an exposed granite outcrop reached via a short scramble from a rocky saddle. From the top, views extend across the northern section of the park, including the Ramparts, and west toward the Darling Downs. The summit is fully exposed, with little shelter from wind or changing weather, which can move in quickly across the range.
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Set within Main Range National Park, this lookout opens out into a patch of montane heath, with low vegetation allowing clear views across the surrounding ranges. Compared to the enclosed forest nearby, the space feels more open, with uninterrupted sightlines across the landscape. It’s reached via a short section of Morgans Walk, which branches off the Bare Rock Track.
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The track follows a well-formed bush path through open forest before skirting cliff edges with elevated views over the surrounding valley. Sections include steps and uneven ground, particularly on the descent toward the waterfall. Surfaces can be damp and slippery after rain. The circuit connects with the path to the base of Queen Mary Falls, making it easy to combine both walks.
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Queen Mary Falls plunges approximately forty metres over a basalt cliff into a rocky gorge below, creating one of the most impressive waterfalls in Main Range National Park. A well-formed circuit track leads to both the lookout above and a path down to the base, where you can stand beneath the falling water.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Main Range National Park?
Main Range National Park offers a diverse selection of over a dozen hiking trails. These include 3 easy routes, 8 moderate options, and 1 more challenging trail, catering to various fitness levels and preferences.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in Main Range National Park?
Yes, for an accessible and family-friendly option, consider the Queen Mary Falls Circuit via Cliff Circuit. This 1.3-mile (2.1 km) trail leads through a beautiful waterfall area and is often completed in under an hour, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll.
What are some of the best viewpoints or lookouts in Main Range National Park?
The park is renowned for its panoramic views. The Mount Cordeaux Track leads to a lookout offering expansive views across Cunningham's Gap and the Scenic Rim ranges. Other notable viewpoints include Mount Cordeaux Lookout, Mount Castle Lookout in the Goomburra section, Sylvesters Lookout, and Governor's Chair, all providing stunning vistas of the diverse landscape.
Are there any trails that feature waterfalls in Main Range National Park?
Absolutely. Main Range National Park is known for its waterfalls. The Queen Mary Falls Circuit is a popular and easily accessible option that takes you directly to the impressive Queen Mary Falls. Other cascades can be found throughout the park, adding to its natural beauty.
What kind of terrain and landscapes can I expect when hiking in Main Range National Park?
Hikers in Main Range National Park will experience incredibly diverse landscapes. The park, part of the Gondwana Rainforests World Heritage Area, features lush subtropical rainforests in sheltered valleys, open eucalypt forests on drier ridges, and montane heath on high, exposed peaks. Ancient volcanic activity has shaped the rugged mountains and dramatic escarpments, offering varied terrain and elevation.
Are there any challenging multi-day hikes in the park for experienced bushwalkers?
Yes, for experienced bushwalkers seeking a multi-day adventure, the Scenic Rim Trail offers a 47km immersion into the World Heritage-listed landscapes. While not directly listed in our routes, it's a significant option for those looking for a more extensive challenge within the park.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Main Range National Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from more than 30 reviews. Reviewers often praise the park's diverse ecosystems, from lush rainforests to panoramic lookouts, and the rewarding views from summits like Mount Mitchell Summit.
Can I find circular hiking routes in Main Range National Park?
Yes, there are several circular routes available. For example, the Queen Mary Falls Circuit is a loop trail. You can also find loop options like Mount Cordeaux Lookout loop from Cunningham's Gap, which allows you to experience different sections of the park's stunning scenery.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see while hiking in Main Range National Park?
Main Range National Park is a haven for wildlife, especially birdlife. It's part of the Scenic Rim Important Bird Area, home to many species including the rarely seen Albert's lyrebird and endangered Eastern Bristlebird. Keep an eye out for various mammals, reptiles, and amphibians that thrive in the park's diverse ecosystems, particularly in the dense rainforest sections like the Box Forest Track.
Are there any specific attractions or landmarks to look out for along the trails?
Beyond the stunning natural features, you'll find several points of interest. The Mount Cordeaux Lookout offers incredible vistas. The Box Forest Track itself is a highlight, winding through ancient subtropical rainforest. The Cliff Circuit Track is another notable section near Queen Mary Falls.
Where can I find information about permits or camping in Main Range National Park?
For information regarding permits for remote area bush camping sites or any other park-specific regulations, it's best to consult the official Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service website. You can find more details on their 'things to do' page for Main Range National Park: parks.qld.gov.au.
What is the best time of year to visit Main Range National Park for hiking?
While Main Range National Park can be enjoyed year-round, the cooler, drier months from autumn to spring (roughly April to October) are generally considered ideal for hiking. During this period, temperatures are more moderate, and rainfall is lower, making for more comfortable conditions on the trails and clearer views from the lookouts.
Most popular attractions in Main Range National Park
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