Wander out to Koonin lookout in Crows Nest National Park for a bird's-eye view over Crows Nest Creek, the Valley of Diamonds and distant rolling hills. Look along the way for intricate lichen patterns on rocks, spring-time wildflowers and ant trails in trees.
Be sure to take stop off at Crows Nest Falls lookout along the way to see Crows Nest Creek plunge 20 metres over granite cliffs to waterhole below. Or take the Kauyoo Loop (an additional 600 metres) to visit Kauyoo Pool and the Cascades.
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.
Do you have a GPX file for this hike? Feel free to email it to me so I can add it to this hikes info.
Click to add your file >>
Content use
Please don’t copy GPX files or content from this site to AllTrails or other platforms. Each trail has been personally mapped, documented, and refined to support Australia’s bushwalking and hiking community. While some details come from land managers, every listing reflects significant personal effort. This is a free, community-driven initiative—your respect helps keep it that way.
Gallery
Got any photos from this hike? Your photos can help others plan. Share shots from along the trail so fellow hikers know what to expect.
Click to add your photos >>
About the region
Crows Nest is a national park on the Darling Downs of southern Queensland, Australia. It is divided into a number of section which are in both Crows Nest and Grapetree, 40 km west of Esk in the South East Queensland bioregion. A 236 ha national park was first declared in 1967. The park has been extended south along the Great Dividing Range and now covers 17.9 km2 (6.91 sq mi).
The geology of the area is dominated by granites with domed outcrops. The vegetation in the park is mostly open eucalypt forest. Species such as the hoop pine, weeping bottlebrush, river she-oak and swamp mahogany can be found along creek banks. The main watercourse in the park is Crows Nest Creek, a tributary of Cressbrook Creek, itself a tributary of the Brisbane River. About 4% of the park is riverine wetlands.
Crows Nest is known for its rugged landscape, waterfalls, and a sparkling gorge called Valley of Diamonds. This valley is so-called because of the mineral felspar which glistens in the sunlight. Lookouts, wildflower heaths, wildlife observing and birdwatching are popular attractions for visitors. A total of 10 rare or threatened species have been identified in Crows Nest National Park.
For more information on this hiking trail, please visit Queensland.com
Let someone know
Heading out? Fill in a trip intentions form so someone knows your plans. If things go wrong, they can raise the alarm fast, giving you peace of mind on the trail.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Crows Nest National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
Favourite
Favourite
Ravensbourne National Park
Favourite
Ravensbourne National Park
Favourite
Suggest an edit
Notice something different about this trail? Whether it’s a new feature, a route change, or a closure, share your update so we can keep our info accurate and helpful for fellow hikers.
Click to suggest edits >>
Explore safe
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.
Packing checklists
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.