If your camera roll is filled with coastal snaps, it's time to pull on the hiking boots and make tracks for the Hinterland hills. Ahead, we've done the groundwork and brought together some of the best walks in the area... abundant with waterfalls, wildlife, and spectacular views.
Kondalilla Falls
Kondalilla Falls in Kondalilla National Park, Montville
Located within the Kondalilla National Park, you’ll find a breathtaking waterfall that drops 90m down, before meandering through the Obi Obi Valley. Here, the shortest walk to try is the Picnic Creek Circuit, which winds through wet eucalyptus forest and pristine rainforest en route to the natural rockpools at the top of Kondalilla Falls. This majestic swimming hole is surrounded by trees, native flora, and prime picnic grounds. Alternatively, the Kondalilla Falls Circuit goes beyond the rockpools and drops down to the base of the waterfall itself. You'll want to brace yourself for a decent stair climb, but the Insta-worthy views looking back up make it all worth it!
Mt Ngungun
Mt Ngungun, Glass House Mountains
If you’ve ever seen a picture of a Hinterland summit, it’s probably been the top of this mountain. Arguably the most popular and photographed Hinterland hike, climbers love this track due to its relative ease and spectacular views. The 2.8-kilometre trail begins in open forest and offers great views of the other Glass House Mountains: Mount Tibrogargan, Mount Coonowrin, and Mount Beerwah. Before reaching the top, however, you'll still find plenty to explore and admire along the way: including a cool rock overhang creating a cool cave. Remember to review existing park alerts before setting out.
Mapleton Falls
Emerging from Pencil Creek, the drop on these falls is a remarkable 120 metres! But don’t worry, you can capture amazing views via a raised platform just a quick stroll from the carpark. To highlight the beauty of the surrounding bushland, you'll find a short circuit nearby where you can catch a glimpse of the tiny birds that flitter amongst the undergrowth of this lush green rainforest area. The walk takes you along pathways that let you experience the amazing rainforest while providing interesting and educational information signposted to help guide you on your way.
Booloumba Falls
Booloumba Falls, Conondale National Park
Head to Conondale National Park to discover lush rainforests, tall eucalypt forests, waterfalls, boulder-strewn creeks, and spectacular scenery. You'll want to take your time on the Booloumba Falls walk (approx 3km) and save space for a picnic lunch to refuel. At the Booloumba Gorge, you'll be able to take in the impressive outlook over The Breadknife rock formation, cascading waters of the creek, and the waterfalls at Peters and Booloumba creeks’ junction. It's worth noting that a high-clearance 4WD vehicle is recommended to access this spot – especially after any heavy rainfall.
Gheerrulla Falls
Mapleton National Park - Gheerulla Falls
This hike is part of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk in the Mapleton National Park. If you don't feel like walking the WHOLE 58km, we've got good news: this section is just a short hike down to the falls. Better yet, the walk itself is relatively quiet, so you might end up with the trail all to yourself.
