Main Range National Park, located in the Southern Queensland Country region, offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers. The Cascades Circuit is a 6.5-kilometre, grade 4 hike that typically takes 2 to 3 hours to complete, making it an ideal adventure for those looking to explore both rainforest and open forest. The track follows the upper reaches of Dalrymple Creek, where the water cascades down the rocks, creating a series of shimmering waterfalls and deep, tranquil pools. The sound of water tumbling over smooth stones and the chorus of bird calls from the canopy create a serene atmosphere, inviting you to sit quietly and take it all in.
As you walk through the lush surroundings, take a moment to appreciate the forest's rich history. Once home to large stands of red cedar, white beech, and hoop pine, these forests were heavily harvested from 1840 to 1985. The remnants of this logging activity can still be spotted throughout the area, offering a subtle glimpse into the past. The park is part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, a place renowned for its geological significance, evolutionary history, and impressive biodiversity, including many rare and threatened species.
This hike provides not just an opportunity to connect with nature but also to step back in time and reflect on the area's deep historical roots. With its combination of vibrant landscapes and rich heritage, the Cascades Circuit is a must-do for those wanting to explore the beauty of Main Range National Park.
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.
Total distance: 6652 m
Max elevation: 950 m
Min elevation: 716 m
Total climbing: 315 m
Total descent: -315 m
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Getting to the trailhead: Main Range National Park.
The Cascades Circuit is located in the Goomburra section of Main Range National Park, approximately 175 kilometres south-west of Brisbane. To reach this area, you can take either the New England or Cunningham highways. If coming from the New England Highway, turn off 3 kilometres south of Allora onto Inverramsay Road, then continue along Inverramsay Road and Forestry Reserve Road for about 35 kilometres to the park entrance. Alternatively, from the Cunningham Highway, take the turnoff at Gladfield, which is 25 kilometres west of Cunninghams Gap or 13 kilometres east of the junction with the New England Highway. Follow this road for 8 kilometres before joining Inverramsay Road, then continue along Inverramsay Road and Forestry Reserve Road to reach the park entrance. Once you arrive, the Cascades Circuit branches off from the Dalrymple Circuit, located just 670 metres from the Manna Gum camping area.
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Find accommodation close to the trailhead including hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Use the interactive map to explore available options in nearby towns.
Nearby towns: 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
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 more walks in or near Main Range National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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Main image: QLD Parks and Forests - Sarah Haskmann
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