The Palm Grove Circuit offers a gentle, scenic walk beneath the towering presence of Mount Cordeaux, taking you through lush rainforest and towards a remarkable grove of piccabeen palms. This 4.4km curcuit track, with a suggested walking time of around two hours, follows the gentle contours of the land and weaves through a diverse landscape of fragrant eucalypts, scattered casuarinas, and grasstrees. As you stroll along, the cool shade and calming sounds of the forest provide a peaceful backdrop to your journey.
The highlight of the track is the stunning grove of piccabeen palms. These tall, slender trees stand on stilt-like trunks, reaching high into the canopy and creating a unique and striking visual contrast against the surrounding forest. In winter, the palms drop bright red fruits onto the forest floor, where they are eagerly consumed by pademelons. Above, the canopy comes alive with the activity of topknot pigeons, wompoo fruit-doves, and other bird species feasting on the fruit, while the small and swift palm-dart butterflies flit between the palms, laying their eggs on the fronds.
As you move through this area, you’re reminded of the park’s exceptional biodiversity, which thrives within the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area. This place is not only rich in natural beauty but also in geological and evolutionary significance, offering a rare glimpse into the intricate web of life that flourishes here.
Total distance: 4447 m
Max elevation: 844 m
Min elevation: 759 m
Total climbing: 272 m
Total descent: -272 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 Palm Grove Circuit is located in the Cunningham Gap section of Main Range National Park, about 120km south-west of Brisbane. To reach the trailhead, drive 116km south-west on the Cunningham Highway from Brisbane. If you’re coming from Warwick, head 50km east along the Cunningham Highway to reach Cunninghams Gap. The Palm Grove Circuit begins at the same point as the Rainforest Circuit, providing a seamless connection to a network of beautiful trails within 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
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