The North Branch Track offers a peaceful escape into the heart of Goomburra, where the fragrance of eucalypt trees fills the air and the sounds of nature surround you. Starting from the locked gate opposite the Kurrajong picnic area, the journey begins with the symphony of frog and bird calls, creating an immersive experience right from the outset. As you make your way along the track, you’ll find yourself rock hopping across water-worn stones in the unspoiled north branch of Dalrymple Creek. The water here is crystal clear, and the path follows its winding course through the open forest.
Along this stretch, the creek is home to the endangered Fleay’s barred frog, and if you’re lucky, you might hear the distinctive “ok-ok-ok” call of a solitary male or the long, rasping chorus of a group. These frogs are a rare and special part of this environment, adding a unique layer to your hike. After about 3.5 kilometres, the track takes you into a lush rainforest, where the air is cool and the landscape changes to one of thick greenery. This is the turnaround point of the walk, offering a chance to pause and appreciate the natural beauty of this World Heritage-listed area. As you walk, you’ll be enveloped by the rich diversity of flora and fauna that make this part of Main Range National Park so special.
Total distance: 6116 m
Max elevation: 829 m
Min elevation: 697 m
Total climbing: 186 m
Total descent: -186 m
Main image: QLD Parks and Forests - Maxime Coquard
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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 Goomburra section of Main Range National Park can be accessed from both the New England and Cunningham highways. If you’re coming from the New England Highway, turn off about 3km south of Allora onto Inverramsay Road. Follow this road, then turn onto Forestry Reserve Road, continuing east for roughly 35km until you reach the park entrance. Alternatively, from the Cunningham Highway, turn off at Gladfield, located 25km west of Cunninghams Gap or 13km east of the junction with the New England Highway. Travel 8km to join Inverramsay Road, then follow it and Forestry Reserve Road to the park entrance.
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.
