Mapleton Falls National Park

Plummeting 120 metres into a lush, fern-filled gorge, Mapleton Falls is one of the Sunshine Coast hinterland's most dramatic sights. This compact national park, just a short drive from the town of Mapleton, offers a classic Queensland rainforest experience without the crowds of its more famous neighbours. The lookout provides a breathtaking panorama of the Obi Obi Valley and the cascading falls, especially impressive after rain. It's a perfect pit-stop for a short walk, a picnic, and a deep breath of eucalyptus-scented air.

Highlights & What to See

• Mapleton Falls Lookout: The main event — a wheelchair-accessible platform that delivers heart-stopping views of the falls and the valley beyond. Visit in the morning for the best light on the escarpment.
• Wompoo Circuit: A 1.6 km rainforest loop that winds through towering brush box trees and piccabeen palms. Keep an eye out for satin bowerbirds and the booming call of the wompoo fruit-dove.
• Picnic Area & Grassed Terrace: A shady spot with tables and electric barbecues, perfect for a leisurely lunch with a view. The grassy area is great for kids to stretch their legs.
• Kondalilla Falls: A short drive south, this sister park boasts a swimming hole at the base of the falls (check conditions) and a longer 4.6 km circuit track through open eucalypt forest.

Suggested Time to Spend

You can comfortably experience the park's highlights in 1–2 hours. Start at the lookout for photos, then wander the Wompoo Circuit at a relaxed pace. Add another hour if you plan to picnic or drive down to Kondalilla Falls for a swim. The park is a perfect morning or afternoon outing from the Sunshine Coast.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Montville: A charming hinterland village with galleries, boutiques, and cosy cafés — just 10 minutes north.
• Kondalilla National Park: Adjacent to the south, with a longer waterfall hike and swimming opportunities.
• Mapleton Township: Grab a coffee or a meal at the Mapleton Tavern or the local bakery before or after your visit.
• Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve: A 55-hectare rainforest reserve with a raised boardwalk and stunning views of the Glass House Mountains, 15 minutes east.
• Sunshine Coast Beaches: The golden sands of Noosa, Mooloolaba, and Caloundra are within a 40-minute drive, making it easy to combine hinterland and coast in one day.

Please check official sources for current details.