The Cliff Circuit in Main Range National Park offers a short yet rewarding escape, perfect for a quick cool-down, especially during the heat of the day. This 700-metre, grade 2 walk takes just 20 minutes to complete, making it ideal for those looking to enjoy the beauty of the park without a long commitment. The trail leads you to a viewing platform with a striking outlook over Queen Mary Falls, where the water cascades dramatically down a 40-metre cliff into the gorge below. The view is one that you won’t forget, and it’s definitely worth capturing on camera.
As you take in the beauty of the falls, look closely at the base where a pile of boulders marks the remnants of a cliff collapse that occurred in the 1880s. On your return walk to the Queen Mary Falls picnic area, keep an eye on the treetops; if you're lucky, you might spot a koala resting in the canopy. The park itself is part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, a region known for its incredible biodiversity, geological significance, and rich evolutionary history, particularly when it comes to rare and endemic species. Whether you're an experienced hiker or just looking for a peaceful stroll, the Cliff Circuit offers a brief but captivating experience in one of Queensland’s most beautiful natural settings.
Grade 2 (Easy) -Â
A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the
AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.
Total distance: 716 m
Max elevation: 865 m
Min elevation: 838 m
Total climbing: 36 m
Total descent: -36 m
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Getting to the trailhead: Main Range National Park.
The Cliff Circuit is located in the Queen Mary Falls section of Main Range National Park, approximately 120km south-west of Brisbane. To reach the trailhead, head to the Queen Mary Falls picnic area, where the walk begins. If you’re coming from the east, start in Beaudesert and drive 40km west to Boonah, then continue 58km south-west along the Boonah-Rathdowney Road, Carneys Creek Road, and Head Road. If you’re coming from the west, drive 8km east from Killarney via Spring Creek Road. Be aware that the approach from Boonah is steep and winding, so it’s important to drive with caution. This route is not suitable for caravans, so plan accordingly.
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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 - Jodie Bray
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