Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk

Winding through the lush subtropical rainforests of the Sunshine Coast hinterland, this 58-kilometre multi-day walk is a dream for hikers who crave solitude, ancient trees, and sweeping mountain views. The trail connects Kondalilla, Mapleton, and Blackall Range national parks, passing waterfalls, swimming holes, and pockets of remnant Antarctic beech forest. It's a challenging but deeply rewarding journey through the heart of the region's wildest landscapes.

Highlights & What to See

• Kondalilla Falls – A stunning 90-metre cascade plunging into a rock pool perfect for a refreshing dip after a long day's hike.
• Mapleton Falls & Lookout – Peer over the Obi Obi Gorge from the viewing platform, especially dramatic after rain when the waterfall is thundering.
• Blackall Range Lookouts – Several vantage points along the trail offer panoramic views across the Glass House Mountains and out to the coast.
• Ancient Antarctic Beech Groves – In the higher sections, you'll walk through relic forests of these prehistoric trees, their gnarled trunks draped in moss.
• Birdlife & Wildlife – Keep an eye out for satin bowerbirds, crimson rosellas, and if you're lucky, a platypus in the quieter creek pools.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most walkers tackle the full trail over 3 to 5 days, camping at designated sites each night. Day hikers can sample shorter sections – the Kondalilla Falls circuit (4 km, 2 hours) or the Mapleton Falls circuit (1 km, 30 minutes) are excellent tasters. If you're short on time, a long weekend gives you enough daylight to complete the entire route at a steady pace.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Montville – A charming mountain village with artisan shops, galleries, and cosy cafes – perfect for a rest day.
• Maleny – Known for its dairy farms and the stunning Maleny Botanic Gardens, a short drive from the trailheads.
• Kenilworth – A historic town with a popular cheese factory and access to the upper Mary River for kayaking.
• Noosa National Park – Combine a hinterland hike with coastal walks and the famous Noosa Main Beach, about an hour's drive east.
• Glass House Mountains National Park – Iconic volcanic plugs offering rock climbing and shorter summit hikes.

Please check official sources for current details.