The Pioneer Graves Track offers a quiet and reflective glimpse into the lives of early settlers, taking you on a short but poignant journey into the history of the region. Just a brief walk from the Pioneer picnic area, the track leads to a small cemetery that once marked the final resting place of several pioneers and their families. Although the graves themselves have long since vanished, a large stone monument now stands as a reminder of the hardships faced by these early settlers. Up to thirteen people are believed to have been buried here, though records are scarce, and some of the stories surrounding their deaths are shrouded in mystery.
Among the most notable tales is that of Mrs Collins, a bullock driver’s wife who tragically fell from their wool dray while navigating the steep, narrow “pinch” and was killed in the accident. Local lore suggests that the small grave next to hers belongs to her infant child, who also perished that day. As you walk this brief but evocative trail, take a moment to reflect on the lives and stories of those who helped shape this land, their legacies etched into the very earth beneath your feet.
This park is part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, renowned for its deep geological significance and rich biodiversity, including many rare and endangered species.
Grade 2 (Easy) - A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the
AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.
Total distance: 327 m
Max elevation: 637 m
Min elevation: 629 m
Total climbing: 13 m
Total descent: -13 m
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Getting to the trailhead: Main Range National Park.
The Pioneer Graves track is located in the Spicers Gap section of Main Range National Park, approximately 120km south-west of Brisbane. To reach the trailhead, head towards the Pioneer Picnic Area, where the track begins. From Brisbane, take the Cunningham Highway and drive about 95km south-west. Just 5km west of Aratula, turn onto Lake Moogerah Road, then continue for 6km before turning onto Spicers Gap Road. Follow this road for another 6km until you reach the park entrance, where you can access the track. The eastern approach is suitable for conventional vehicles, making the trailhead easily accessible for most visitors.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Find accommodation close to the trailhead including hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Use the interactive map to explore available options in nearby towns.
Nearby towns: 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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Main image: QLD Parks and Forests - Chris Whitelaw
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