From iconic waterfalls within driving distance of Noosa to secret spots tucked deep in the forest, read on to find out four stunning Sunshine Coast Hinterland walks. One of our top tips? Stop along the way and pick up some goodies from the likes of Maleny Food Co, Maleny Cheese and Chocolate Country to keep you fuelled up for a day of adventures.
Kondalilla Falls
Distance: 4.7kms return | Time: Allow 2 hours return | Skill level: Intermediate
Kondalilla Falls Circuit, Kondalilla National Park, Sunshine Coast Hinterland
Part of the traditional lands of the Kabi Kabi people, Kondalilla National Park is a natural oasis of towering eucalypt forest, subtropical rainforest and spectacular waterfalls. The name Kondalilla comes from the Aboriginal word meaning ‘rushing waters’, and that’s just what you’ll find at Kondalilla Falls where the water cascades 90m over Skene Creek. Best of all, you can not only hike here... but also swim.
Start your journey by following the Picnic Creek Circuit (1.7km) to emerge at the natural rockpools at the top of the falls. Surrounded by trees and native flora, this is a beautiful spot for a cool dip, but the true beauty of Kondalilla awaits you via the Kondalilla Falls Circuit. Descending the escarpment, the circuit track winds its way around chilled gorges and scenic lookouts into a lush valley at the base of the waterfall. The views here are spectacular, so don’t forget to pack a gourmet picnic to sit and enjoy the view when you emerge at the top of the trail!
Mapleton Falls
Distance: 1.3kms return | Time: Allow 1 hour return | Skill level: Easy
Mapleton Falls Lookout, Mapleton Falls National Park, Sunshine Coast Hinterland
Measuring just shy of the average skyscraper, Mapleton Falls is like turning the tap on full a billion times over. Cascading an incredible 120m from Pencil Creek up into the escarpment far below, you’ll find yourself mesmerised by the sheer force and beauty on display. Start your journey at the Mapleton Falls Lookout, which gives you an incredible bird’s eye view of the falls, and we mean that quite literally: Peregrine falcons are often spotted swooping high above the valley below. From here, take a stroll along the Wompoo Circuit.
With plenty of picnic areas and tables available, you’ll want to pack a lunch of local produce and stay for a while, soaking in the sounds of frogs calling happily to each other from the pool beside the causeway and tiny birds flittering amongst the undergrowth.
Gheerulla Falls
Distance: 2.6kms return | Time: Allow 2 hours return | Skill level: Difficult
Gheerulla Falls, Mapleton National Park, Sunshine Coast Hinterland waterfall
There are long walks and there are short walks... and then there’s the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk
The Gheerulla Falls Walk falls somewhere in between, making up just a part of the Great Walk, which in its entirety spans an incredible 58.8km. Tackle this shorter, but no less spectacular, trail through the Mapleton National Park and be rewarded with tranquillity served with a side of glorious views and pristine rainforest. This winding and undulating trail (yep, that means uphill on the return!) is a little lesser known, so you’ll find yourself disconnecting from your daily grind and instead tuning in with the calls of nature.
If you’re looking to turn your day-trip into an overnight adventure, Narrows Escape Rainforest Retreat offers the ultimate Great Walks package. Over several nature-filled days, you’ll tackle the sections of the Great Walk with a local guide, before returning to the comfort of your rainforest cabin and a gourmet chef-prepared dinner.
Booloumba Falls
Distance: 3kms return | Time: Allow 2 hours return | Skill level: Intermediate
Waterfall in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, Booloumba Falls, Conondale National Park.
You'll quickly discover that Conondale National Park, with its crystal waters, secluded camp spots and hidden work of art, is almost otherworldly. Your first stop here is Booloumba Creek, which winds its way through the landscape. Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters and make sure to book a campsite, because close to the creek are several shady camp spots you won’t want to leave.
From there, head further into the rainforest to discover one of the Sunshine Coast’s best-kept secrets: The Strangler Cairn. This sculpture by renowned artist Andy Goldsworthy is shaped like a large egg, with a strangler fig planted at the top. The idea is that over time, the fig will grow and its roots will encompass the egg, blending the two as one. You’ll also find Booloumba Gorge, which provides a spectacular outlook over The Breadknife rock formation, and the cascading waters of the stunning waterfalls of Peters and Booloumba Creeks. If you’re travelling here in a car, you’ll need a high-clearance 4WD for the creek crossings, or leave your car at the entrance and take it on foot.
Up next? Take a stroll over to our Hinterland page for more countryside inspiration.
While our waterfalls are stunning, they can also be dangerous. Always stick to marked trails, follow any local signage and check park alerts before you visit at parks.qld.gov.au
By Visit Sunshine Coast
Published 1 day ago
