Governors Chair Lookout offers a short but rewarding 300-metre hike in Main Range National Park, Queensland. The track is graded 3 and typically takes around 15 minutes to complete, making it an easy, accessible walk for most. As you approach the lookout, you’ll be greeted by stunning views over Lake Moogerah and the surrounding Main Range, a spot that has long been admired for its breathtaking panorama.
The lookout sits high on the edge of a cliff face, with a large rock offering a natural resting place. This spot was historically significant, as it was frequently used by early Queensland governors during their travels through Spicers Gap. Originally called Governors Rock, the site was renamed Governors Chair in 1854 to honour Sir Charles Fitzroy, the Governor-General of the Australian colony at the time. The site also holds personal significance for Queensland’s first governor, Sir George Bowen, who would often stop here during his visits from Brisbane to take in the expansive views.
Over the years, the lookout has attracted other notable visitors, including Lord Lamington and even Aldous Huxley’s grandfather, further adding to its historical charm. Today, it continues to offer a peaceful spot to pause and reflect while soaking in the surrounding natural beauty.
For more information on this hiking trail, please visit Queensland.com
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Total distance: 379 m
Max elevation: 773 m
Min elevation: 765 m
Total climbing: 15 m
Total descent: -15 m
Getting to the trailhead: Main Range National Park.
The Governors Chair Lookout track is located in the Spicers Gap section of Main Range National Park, around 120km south-west of Brisbane. The track begins at the end of Spicers Gap Road, 4.9km from the park entrance. To reach the Spicers Gap section from Brisbane, drive approximately 95km south-west on the Cunningham Highway. About 5km west of Aratula, turn onto Lake Moogerah Road and continue for 6km. Then, turn onto Spicers Gap Road and drive another 6km to the park entrance. Keep in mind that the eastern approach to Spicers Gap is suitable for 4WD vehicles.
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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