The best running trails in Kondalilla National Park

Kondalilla National Park is nestled in the Blackall Range, and is a breathtaking landscape shaped by volcanic activity and water over millions of years. where rich basalt soils support warm subtropical rainforest, combined with pockets of tall open eucalypt forest. Originally protected in 1906 and officially designated a national park in 1945, the name “Kondalilla” comes from an Aboriginal word meaning “running water.” The Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk passes right through it, with plenty of options for shorter day walks along the track.

Baxter Falls is a breathtaking cascade in the Obi Obi Gorge area of Kondalilla National Park, fed by Obi Obi Creek as it flows through the rugged gorge and surrounded by lush rainforest. Just before the falls, there is a suspension bridge that crosses high above Baxter Creek, connecting the north and south sections of the trail. There is a strict limit of two adults at a time, so take your time and enjoy the views if others are using the bridge. The falls stand 22 metres high, with a lovely pool at its base, and plenty of shade, making it a perfect place to take a break before heading back.

Kondalilla Falls is an impressive waterfall in Kondalilla National Park where Skene Creek plunges roughly 90 metres into a steep rainforest gorge. The cascade flows over dark rock ledges before continuing through the forested valley below, and is worth capturing a few memorable photos any time of the year. Surrounded by dense subtropical rainforest, the beautiful falls are one of the most well-known natural features of the Sunshine Coast hinterland.

The Kondalilla Falls Circuit Track is a well-signposted loop track that features more than 300 stairs, lush subtropical vegetation, lookouts, rock pools, and an 80-metre waterfall viewpoint, making it a rewarding but moderately strenuous walk of roughly 2–3 hours. The route is well known for its varied scenery, from eucalypt slopes to dense forest and cool creekside sections, and is a highlight of the park’s day walks.

The Rock Pools are natural swimming holes formed on Skene Creek near the falls, where cool water collects in smooth rock basins. These picturesque pools, often referred to locally as the “swimming hole”, are a favourite resting spot in warmer weather and provide a refreshing break along the walk. Accessible just off the main track, the rock pools are surrounded by lush rainforest vegetation.

Picnic Creek Circuit is a popular walking trail of about 4 kilometres that loops through rainforest, open forest and along Picnic Creek, with a mix of shaded creekside sections and elevated ridge views. The track generally takes 1.5–2.5 hours to complete, with several footbridges, rock steps and occasional scenic outlooks, making it suitable for moderately experienced bushwalkers. Along the way, you can enjoy diverse subtropical vegetation and a peaceful creek environment, both great examples of the beautiful natural character of Kondalilla National Park’s lower slopes.

The Obi Valley Lookout is a scenic vantage point offering expansive views over the forested Obi Obi Valley and its subtropical rainforest canopy. Located partway along the loop walk, it’s a popular spot for walkers to pause and take in the valley’s lush landscape framed by the Blackall Range escarpment.

The Wompoo Circuit brings hikers through dense, lush subtropical rainforest along the escarpment. The trail is mostly shaded, with interpretive signs and occasional valley views. The circuit is named after the wompoo fruit dove, which is a large, colorful rainforest pigeon sometimes heard or spotted along this loop.