The Heritage Trail in Main Range National Park offers a fascinating glimpse into Queensland’s engineering history, highlighting the pioneering spirit of the 19th century. Stretching 3.2km and graded as a moderate Grade 4 walk, this trail invites you to follow the Old Spicers Gap Road, which dates back to a time when road-building was an art form in itself. The walk takes around an hour, making it a perfect way to explore both the natural beauty and rich history of the area.
As you stroll along the trail, you’ll encounter informative signs that explain the remarkable road-building techniques used between 1850 and 1870. One of the highlights is the road built by surveyor and engineer Robert Austin in 1960, which still retains the timeless design of sweeping curves and gentle gradients. These features were specifically crafted to accommodate the heavy transport of the era, including bullock drays and horse-drawn wagons. Austin’s thoughtful approach also included 'macadamised' or 'metalled' pavements and a keen attention to drainage, techniques well ahead of their time.
This park is part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, which is renowned for its geological significance, evolutionary history, and rich diversity of rare, threatened, and endemic species. Walking this trail is not just a journey through nature, but also an opportunity to connect with the past and see how engineering innovation shaped the landscape.
Total distance: 3031 m
Max elevation: 840 m
Min elevation: 773 m
Total climbing: 107 m
Total descent: -107 m
Main image: QLD Parks and Forests
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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 Heritage Trail is located in the Spicers Gap section of Main Range National Park, about 120km south-west of Brisbane. There are two access points to the trail, each offering a slightly different approach. The first trailhead is located at the end of Spicers Gap Road, 4.9km from the park entrance. The second, which is suitable for high-clearance 4WD vehicles only, is at the western end of Spicers Gap Road, 2.7km from the park entrance. If you choose this route, be sure to close all gates after passing through. Both access points provide a scenic and historical entry to this remarkable part of the park.
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.
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
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
