The Dalrymple Circuit, located in Main Range National Park, Queensland, is a short yet rewarding 1.2km loop that takes about 30 minutes to complete. The trail offers an easy grade 3 walk through a captivating landscape, with plenty of opportunities to pause and appreciate the surrounding nature. Starting at the Manna Gum camping area, the trail crosses several bridges and platforms that span the vibrant waters of Dalrymple Creek, offering clear views of the cascades, riffles, and pools below.
This walk is a great way to introduce children to the wonders of nature, with plenty of wildlife to spot along the way. Before setting off, you can print out an activity sheet for the kids to complete during the hike, making the experience both educational and fun. As you follow the trail, keep an eye out for a variety of creatures in the creek, including tadpoles, crayfish, platypus, and fish. The area is also home to many species of frogs, including the endangered Fleay’s barred frog, which may be spotted in the water or along the creek banks.
Dalrymple Creek, which is one of the headwaters of the Condamine River, holds significant ecological value. This river eventually flows into the Darling and Murray rivers, contributing to a larger network of waterways that sustain the region. Along the circuit, informative trackside signs provide insight into the rich history and natural significance of this beautiful part of the park, making it an enriching walk for both nature enthusiasts and casual hikers alike.
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Main image: QLD Parks and Forests - Maxime Coquard
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Total distance: 1278 m
Max elevation: 741 m
Min elevation: 716 m
Total climbing: 37 m
Total descent: -38 m
Getting to the trailhead: Main Range National Park.
The Dalrymple Circuit is located in the Goomburra section of Main Range National Park, about 175km south-west of Brisbane. To reach the trailhead, start by heading to the Manna Gum camping area, where the circuit begins. If you’re coming from the New England Highway, take the turnoff 3km south of Allora onto Inverramsay Road, then continue on this road and turn onto Forestry Reserve Road, heading east for approximately 35km until you reach the park entrance. Alternatively, from the Cunningham Highway, take the exit at Gladfield, which is 25km west of Cunninghams Gap or 13km east of the junction with the New England Highway. Travel 8km to connect with Inverramsay Road, and from there, follow it to join Forestry Reserve Road, which will lead you to the park entrance.
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
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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Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the
AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
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.
Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure
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