
Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk
Explore diverse rainforests, stunning waterfalls, and panoramic lookouts on this flexible walking track.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Mild weather, fewer crowds

Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk
Best Time
Mild weather, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore diverse rainforests, stunning waterfalls, and panoramic lookouts on this flexible walking track.
"A life-changing solo hike through the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk."

Book Campsites Early
Popular campsites fill up fast, especially for overnight treks. Book well in advance to secure your spot! :ticket:
Waterfalls Galore!
Don't miss the stunning waterfalls like Kondalilla Falls. Perfect for a refreshing dip on a warm day. :droplet:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kondalilla National Park
Montville
Discover stunning waterfalls and lush rainforests on the Kondalilla Falls loop. A refreshing swim awaits at the rockpool.

Glass House Mountains Lookout
Near Maleny
Breathtaking panoramic views of the iconic Glass House Mountains. Perfect for a scenic stop on your hinterland adventure.

Rainforest Creek Swim
Booloumba Creek
Cool off in crystal-clear rainforest creeks. A perfect natural oasis to relax and rejuvenate after a hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Trek
Pack Smart for the Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Campsites Early
Popular campsites fill up fast, especially for overnight treks. Book well in advance to secure your spot! :ticket:
Waterfalls Galore!
Don't miss the stunning waterfalls like Kondalilla Falls. Perfect for a refreshing dip on a warm day. :droplet:
Embrace the Day Walks
Short on time? The Hinterland Great Walk offers flexible day walk options for a taste of the scenery. :hiking_boot:
Pack Insect Repellent
Mosquitoes and other biting insects can be present, especially in damper areas. :bug:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Campsites Early
Popular campsites fill up fast, especially for overnight treks. Book well in advance to secure your spot! :ticket:
Waterfalls Galore!
Don't miss the stunning waterfalls like Kondalilla Falls. Perfect for a refreshing dip on a warm day. :droplet:
Embrace the Day Walks
Short on time? The Hinterland Great Walk offers flexible day walk options for a taste of the scenery. :hiking_boot:
Pack Insect Repellent
Mosquitoes and other biting insects can be present, especially in damper areas. :bug:
Scenic Lookouts
Stop at lookouts like Howell's Knob for incredible views of the Glass House Mountains. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk, particularly its waterfalls and rainforests. The flexibility to choose between challenging multi-day treks and accessible day walks is a major draw. Some find the multi-day hike demanding but incredibly rewarding.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk is accessible by car from Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast. Major entry points include Kondalilla National Park and various trailheads near Maleny and Montville. Public transport options are limited, so a car is recommended for flexibility.
The walk is generally well-marked, but having a map is essential, especially for the multi-day sections. You can find a Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk map online or at local visitor centers.
Yes, the walk is designed with flexibility. You can access various sections for day hikes or start/end points for multi-day treks. Consider driving between trailheads if you plan to explore different segments.
Driving is the most convenient way to move between different sections of the walk. Parking is available at most major trailheads.
Currently, there are no dedicated shuttle services for the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk. Planning your transport in advance is key.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to national parks like Kondalilla is generally free. However, camping fees apply for overnight stays in designated campgrounds.
Campsites must be booked in advance through the Queensland National Parks booking system. Popular spots can fill up quickly, so plan ahead.
National parks are typically open from dawn till dusk. Specific hours can vary, so it's best to check the Queensland National Parks website for the most up-to-date information.
No specific permits are required for day hiking on the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk. However, camping permits are mandatory for overnight stays.
Absolutely! The walk is segmented, allowing for numerous day walks. You can explore sections like the Kondalilla Falls loop without needing to camp.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The full Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk is approximately 58 kilometers long, typically completed over 3-4 days. However, it's highly flexible with many shorter day walk options.
The terrain varies from rainforest paths and creek crossings to more open forest trails. Some sections can be steep and rocky, requiring sturdy footwear.
Yes, the walk is famous for its beautiful waterfalls, including the impressive Kondalilla Falls and Gardners Falls.
The walk offers options for all fitness levels. Day walks are generally suitable for beginners, while the multi-day trek requires good fitness and hiking experience.
You might encounter diverse wildlife, including over 100 bird species and various reptiles. Keep an eye out for wallabies and other native animals.
📸 📸 Photography
Kondalilla Falls, the Glass House Mountains lookouts, and lush rainforest sections offer incredible photo opportunities. Capture the waterfalls, scenic vistas, and unique flora.
Yes, with careful positioning and timing, you can capture stunning shots of the waterfalls. Consider a polarizing filter to manage reflections on the water.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for landscape photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a golden glow.
Drone usage is restricted in national parks. Always check the specific regulations for Queensland National Parks before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod is helpful for waterfall shots in low light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection. Consider bringing a carrier for very young children. Many families enjoy combining a hike with a visit to the charming towns of Maleny or Montville, where you can find playgrounds, ice cream shops, and picnic spots.
Solo Adventurers
While the multi-day trek is popular for solo overnighters, day walks provide ample opportunity for a solo adventure. Ensure you inform someone of your hiking plans, carry a fully charged phone, and are prepared for varying conditions. The well-marked trails and accessible day walk options make it a safe and rewarding choice for solo exploration.
Nature Photographers
Key spots include Kondalilla Falls for its cascading water and the Glass House Mountains lookouts for sweeping vistas. Early morning and late afternoon light are ideal for capturing the best of the landscape. Don't forget a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a tripod for waterfall photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Multi-Day Trek Experience
Many hikers describe the multi-day experience as 'life-changing' and incredibly rewarding, offering a chance to disconnect and reconnect with nature. The flexibility of the walk means you can tailor the itinerary to your fitness level and time constraints. Some sections are more challenging than others, so proper preparation and gear are essential for a safe and enjoyable trek.
For those seeking a more comfortable overnight experience, there are also options for 'off-park luxe accomm' near some sections of the walk, providing a unique blend of adventure and comfort.
Day Walks and Shorter Adventures
Other accessible day walk options include trails around Baroon Pocket Dam and various circuits within national parks. These shorter hikes are ideal for families, casual walkers, or those with limited time. They still provide a fantastic opportunity to experience the region's natural beauty, including rainforests, creeks, and scenic lookouts.
Many visitors enjoy combining a day hike with exploring the charming hinterland towns like Maleny and Montville, which offer local cafes, artisan shops, and unique accommodation. This makes for a well-rounded hinterland experience.
Wildlife and Natural Beauty
The region is particularly known for its stunning waterfalls, such as Kondalilla Falls and Gardners Falls, which are highlights for many visitors. The lush rainforests are filled with ancient trees, ferns, and vibrant flora, creating a truly immersive natural environment. The sound of cascading water and the scent of damp earth are quintessential elements of the hinterland experience.
Beyond the main trails, exploring smaller creeks and swimming holes, like Booloumba Creek, offers a chance to cool off and appreciate the pristine natural beauty. These spots are often described as idyllic and refreshing, providing a perfect respite during a hike.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit