Sylvesters Lookout offers a rewarding and relatively short hike with spectacular views from the edge of the Great Dividing Range. This 940-metre, grade 3 trail in Main Range National Park typically takes about 45 minutes to complete. The track begins with a pleasant walk through lush rainforest, which soon gives way to the impressive lookout at the trail’s end.
From the lookout, the panorama stretches south across vast coastal plains, with the tip of Lake Moogerah visible in the distance. The peaks of the Fassifern Valley rise dramatically, framed by the rugged Border Ranges. These peaks are remnants of ancient volcanic activity, formed millions of years ago when magma pushed through cracks in the basalt rock. Over time, the softer rock eroded away, leaving behind the more resilient volcanic dykes that now stand as towering peaks.
Signs at the lookout provide further insight into the geological history of the area, helping you understand the natural forces that shaped this stunning landscape. As you take in the view, the cool breezes flowing up the cliff faces provide a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the surrounding rainforest. This part of Main Range National Park is also within the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, known for its rich diversity, including many rare and threatened species, as well as its ongoing geological processes.
For more information on this hiking trail, please visit Queensland.com
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Main image: QLD Parks and Forests - Maxime Coquard
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Total distance: 911 m
Max elevation: 1066 m
Min elevation: 1049 m
Total climbing: 42 m
Total descent: -42 m
Getting to the trailhead: Main Range National Park.
The Sylvesters Lookout track is located in the Goomburra section of Main Range National Park, about 175km south-west of Brisbane. To reach the trailhead, turn left at the park entrance and follow Lookout Road for 4.9km until you reach the start of the track.
If you’re coming from the New England Highway, take the turnoff 3km south of Allora onto Inverramsay Road. Follow Inverramsay Road, then turn onto Forestry Reserve Road, heading east for around 35km until you reach the park entrance. From the Cunningham Highway, turn off at Gladfield, situated 25km west of Cunninghams Gap or 13km east of the junction between the Cunningham and New England highways. Continue along Inverramsay Road, then take Forestry Reserve Road to reach the park entrance.
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
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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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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