From one-kilometre rainforest boardwalks to ten-kilometre hikes and cool, rock-lined rainforest pools, the Blackall Range has walking for everyone. Most trails are within 20–40 minutes of Lillypilly's, and many finish at a swimming hole worth the effort.
Kondalilla Falls (Montville)
One of the most popular hikes on the Sunshine Coast. The 4.6 km circuit in Kondalilla National Park drops from a cool eucalypt plateau into subtropical rainforest, past the 90-metre falls, with a swimming hole at the top of the falls and another below. For a longer day, tackle the 20 km Baroon Pocket to Kondalilla walk (around 5 hours).
Gardner's Falls (Maleny)
One of the easiest swimming holes to reach — just a 300-metre walk from the car park to Obi Obi Creek, with a series of pools strung along the river. Best on weekdays and shoulder seasons, as it can get busy on weekends.
Baxter Falls (Kondalilla National Park)
A quieter alternative to Kondalilla, reached from either the northern or southern entrance. Around two hours return via a beautiful suspension bridge through subtropical rainforest.
Gheerulla Falls (Mapleton National Park)
One of the lesser-known waterfalls in the hinterland. The 2.7 km walk winds down to a secluded fall that you may well have entirely to yourself — an easy walk without the crowds.
Booloumba Falls (Conondale National Park)
For adventurous 4x4 drivers, the 3 km Booloumba Falls walk in Conondale National Park is a full-day affair with turquoise rock pools, boulder-strewn creek beds and rainforest swimming. Extend the day with a further 10 km trek to the Artist Cascades and Andy Goldsworthy's Strangler Cairn sculpture.
Mary Cairncross Rainforest Walk (Maleny)
A wheelchair-friendly boardwalk loop through 55 hectares of National Estate-listed subtropical rainforest. Listen for the striking call of the catbird, look for red-legged pademelons and enjoy the sweeping views over the Glass House Mountains from the reserve's café.
Safety
While the waterfalls are stunning they can also be dangerous — never dive into creeks or rock pools as they may hide submerged rocks and logs. Always stick to marked trails, follow local signage, and check park alerts before you visit at parks.qld.gov.au.