The Bare Rock Track and Morgans Walk offer a rewarding journey through cool-temperate rainforest, leading to breathtaking views across the northern Ramparts and the vast Darling Downs. Tucked away in the Cunningham Gap section of Main Range National Park, this hike takes you along the western slopes of Mount Cordeaux, where towering tree ferns and moss-covered trunks create a landscape that feels untouched by time. The trail climbs steadily, weaving through dense vegetation before emerging at natural openings that reveal sweeping outlooks across the valley below.
As you cross a rocky saddle to the north, the rainforest gives way to open montane woodland, and the final push to Bare Rock, standing at 1,168 metres above sea level, offers an incredible perspective over the park’s rugged northern reaches. To the west, the fertile plains of the Darling Downs stretch towards the horizon, contrasting sharply with the steep escarpments of the Main Range.
On your return, take the short side track to Morgans Walk. This peaceful 700-metre detour winds through a striking grove of montane heath, an ecosystem shaped by harsh winds and high-altitude conditions. It’s a quiet, beautiful spot—well worth the extra effort before making your way back through the forest.
Main Range National Park is part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, a region celebrated for its ancient landscapes, remarkable biodiversity, and ongoing natural evolution. Walking these trails, you’re not just exploring a national park—you’re stepping into a living, breathing piece of history.
Total distance: 13514 m
Max elevation: 1159 m
Min elevation: 778 m
Total climbing: 957 m
Total descent: -957 m
Main image: QLD Parks and Forests - Janette Asche
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Closest towns to this walk: Allora, Boonah, Boondooma, Clifton, Crows Nest, Cunninghams Gap, Dungarees, Emu Vale, Esk, Gatton, Harrisville, Kalbar, Killarney, Laidley, Legume, Maryvale, Peak Crossing, Stanthorpe, Tannymorel, Toowoomba, Warwick, Yangan
Getting to the trailhead in Main Range National Park.
The trailhead for the Bare Rock Track and Morgans Walk is in the Cunningham Gap section of Main Range National Park, about 120 kilometres south-west of Brisbane. To reach the start of the hike, follow the Cunningham Highway, a well-maintained route that winds through the Scenic Rim, offering glimpses of the forested peaks that define this rugged landscape. If you’re coming from Brisbane, it’s a 116-kilometre drive south-west along the highway. From Warwick, the journey is shorter, with a 50-kilometre drive east bringing you to Cunningham Gap.
Once you arrive, park at the designated area near the Crest car park. The walk begins along the Mount Cordeaux Track, which ascends through cool-temperate rainforest before reaching a junction at the top. From here, follow the signs to Bare Rock, a rewarding extension of the hike. Morgans Walk is a short side track along the return route, offering a peaceful detour through montane heath. While the highway provides easy access, the area’s high elevation means conditions can change quickly, so it’s always worth checking the weather before setting off.
Main Range National Park, located in the Scenic Rim of South East Queensland, is a place where nature’s beauty and geological history come together. Covering over 30,000 hectares, this park is part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, which is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity and ancient landscapes. The park is home to a diverse range of ecosystems, from cool subtropical rainforests to dry eucalypt forests, montane heath, and rocky outcrops. These varied habitats provide a sanctuary for a wide range of rare and endangered species, including the Albert’s lyrebird, the eastern bristlebird, and the black-breasted button-quail. The park's complex topography and rich soils support an impressive array of plant life, from towering trees to delicate wildflowers, each playing a vital role in the region’s delicate ecological balance.
The park’s most prominent feature is the Main Range itself, a dramatic escarpment formed from volcanic activity millions of years ago. Once part of a giant shield volcano, the range offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and distant mountains. Over time, erosion has sculpted the landscape, creating rugged peaks and deep gorges, with numerous lookouts offering visitors a chance to take in the incredible scenery. The Main Range’s geological significance is matched by its ecological importance, with ancient plant species such as the giant spear lily and various rainforest trees still thriving in its protected environment.
Visitors to Main Range National Park can explore a range of walking tracks that showcase the park’s stunning landscapes, rich history, and diverse wildlife. Whether it’s a short walk through the rainforest or a more challenging hike up to one of the park's higher peaks, there’s something for everyone. The park is not only a place of natural beauty but also a site of historical significance. Early European explorers such as Allan Cunningham paved the way for the development of transport routes through the range, leaving behind a legacy that shaped the region’s development. Today, the park remains an important destination for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking to connect with the natural world in a truly special place.
Looking for hikes and trails in Main Range National Park or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.
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Grade 4 (Hard) -
Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the
AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.
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