Never attempt to cross or enter creeks during flood conditions, as water levels can rise rapidly, creating strong currents and hazardous conditions.
Little Yabba Circuit is a peaceful 1.5km loop through Imbil State Forest, offering a mix of rainforest, creekside scenery, and excellent birdwatching opportunities. The walk takes about 45 minutes to complete and follows an easy-to-navigate trail, though some sections require wading through shallow water.
Starting from the Charlie Moreland day-use area, the circuit begins with a refreshing crossing of Little Yabba Creek. The clear waters reveal glimpses of fish darting below the surface, while water beetles skim effortlessly across the top. The banks are lined with lush riparian rainforest, providing welcome shade and attracting a variety of birdlife. Noisy lorikeets chatter overhead, while honeyeaters, fantails, doves, and the occasional tiny quail move through the undergrowth.
As the path winds deeper into the forest, towering hoop pines stand among the greenery, a reminder of the region’s rich natural history. The creek’s gentle flow is punctuated by inviting waterholes, perfect for a cooling dip on a warm day. Eventually, the circuit loops back toward the Charlie Moreland camping area, where the trail reconnects with the day-use area.
While the track is well-formed, its natural terrain and water crossings make it unsuitable for wheelchairs. Be sure to check park conditions before setting out, as water levels and access can vary with the seasons.
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.
- This walk includes natural creek crossings where rocks can be slippery, especially after rain. Take your time and step carefully to maintain your footing.
- Avoid diving or jumping into the creek or rockpools, as water depth can change unexpectedly, and hidden rocks or logs may be present beneath the surface.
- Never attempt to cross or enter creeks during flood conditions, as water levels can rise rapidly, creating strong currents and hazardous conditions.
Total distance: 1524 m
Max elevation: 148 m
Min elevation: 137 m
Total climbing: 39 m
Total descent: -39 m
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Before you go, complete a trip intentions form and share it with a trusted contact. Agree on a Late-Back Time and ask them to call 000 (Police) if you have not checked in. A clear trip plan is one of the simplest and most effective safety steps you can take.
Download the hiking preparation and safety checklists before leaving home to help you think through your plans. They help ensure important considerations are not overlooked and support safer decision-making on the trail.
Getting to the trailhead: Imbil State Forest.
To reach the trailhead, start from Kenilworth and head along Maleny–Kenilworth Road for 6.2 km. Turn right onto Sunday Creek Road and continue for another 5 km to arrive at the Charlie Moreland day-use area, where the walk begins.
For those planning to camp, the Charlie Moreland camping area is accessible via Sunday Creek Road. High-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles and off-road camper trailers can reach the site in dry weather, but caution is required. Two-wheel drive vehicles can access the area from the east, though the unsealed road includes a concrete causeway over a creek—take extra care in wet conditions.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Nestled in the Sunshine Coast hinterland, Imbil State Forest is a perfect spot for a family getaway. Here you can escape the city for a day, a night or even a week. Walk, hike, swim, mountain bike, horse ride or just relax beside a rainforest creek.
Imbil State Forest is also home to over 120 bird species that occasionally visit the Amamoor State Forest. Check out the Bellbird Feature Protection Area, where visitors will be treated to the delightful song of bellbirds as you walk about or have a picnic. BBQs and picnic tables are already provided here.
Enjoy a picnic under a shady tree or cook up a feast on the barbecue, along the banks of Little Yabba Creek. After lunch relax with a dip in the creek or spend some time exploring the park on Little Yabba or Piccabeen circuits. Along these walks you will discover Imbil's diverse landscape including lush rainforest, open eucalypt forest and hoop and exotic pine plantations that are home to more than 120 species of birds.
Up for a challenge? Then you can take a hike up Mount Allan and be rewarded with spectacular 360 degree views of the Mary Valley and surrounding ranges. Horses and mountain bikes are also welcome on this shared trail.
At night, relax beside a camp fire under a starry sky before falling asleep to the sounds of the Australian bush in the Charlie Moreland camping area, which is a terrific location for camping, fishing, canoeing, and boating. Additionally, you may want to spend a night or two at the Borumba Dam because camping is prohibited within the forest.
The forest and its surroundings also have several fantastic trails that can be explored on a bicycle or on foot. The Fig Tree walk, which is a 780m long circuit, is one of the most popular, but be sure to wear closed shoes because of the stinging nettle. Little Yabba Circuit is 1.5km return, and Piccabeen circuit is 3.5km return.
Looking for more walks in or near Imbil State Forest? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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