Starting from the Queen Mary Falls picnic area, this short circuit takes you through a landscape that shifts from open eucalypt forest to the cool embrace of a rainforest gorge. The scent of eucalyptus fills the air as you follow the ridgeline, leading to a breathtaking vantage point where Spring Creek tumbles 40 metres over the falls. On a sunny day, the mist rising from the cascade catches the light, creating shimmering rainbows above the valley below.
The track then winds its way down to the base of the falls, where the air is thick with moisture, and the roar of rushing water echoes off the cliffs. On a warm day, the cool spray is a welcome refreshment, offering a chance to pause and take in the power and beauty of the waterfall up close.
For a more comfortable walk, rangers suggest tackling the loop in a clockwise direction, which makes the climb more gradual. Queen Mary Falls is part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, a place of immense geological and ecological significance, home to an extraordinary diversity of plant and animal life.
Total distance: 2057 m
Max elevation: 864 m
Min elevation: 808 m
Total climbing: 130 m
Total descent: -130 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 Queen Mary Falls circuit is located in the Queen Mary Falls section of Main Range National Park, about 120 km south-west of Brisbane. The walk begins at the Queen Mary Falls picnic area, which serves as a great spot to relax before or after your hike.
To reach the falls from the east, drive from Beaudesert to Boonah, a distance of about 40 km. From Boonah, continue south-west for 58 km along the Boonah-Rathdowney Road, Carneys Creek Road, and Head Road. If Head Road is closed, take the alternative route via Carneys Creek Road and White Swamp Road. Keep in mind that the approach from Boonah is steep and should be navigated with care—this route is not suitable for caravans.
If you’re coming from the west, the falls are just 8 km east of Killarney via Spring Creek Road, offering a more direct and gentle approach.
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 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.
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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