Adventure: Kureelpa Falls Circuit (Mapleton National Park)
For those active families wanting to spoil their dads with a challenging adventure this Father’s Day, comprising spectacular views over the Obi Obi Valley, lush open rainforest and nearly 300 different animal species about - this one is for you!
See where the South Maroochy River emanates from with this down-and-up 8.7km circuit on the Mapleton ranges.
Suitability
This is a shared path for walkers, horse-riders and mountain bikers. At the starting point there are dedicated parks for horse-floats. Note: the first half of the trail drops 200m in elevation. Dogs are not permitted in National Parks.
Highlights
On horse, bike or foot, travel through this tall, thriving and open forest as you make your way down the hill. About halfway around the circuit, take a short walk (400m return) down to see Kureelpa Falls. Here you’ll discover water from the South Maroochy River cascading over boulders before falling 30m into a hidden gorge.
You might come across large monitor lizards racing up trees, cascade frogs and lots of birdlife as well. More than 295 species have been counted including finches, robins, woodswallows, honeyeaters, wrens and much more.
There are a number of side trails so make to stay on the main trail as many of these are dead ends and it's easy to get turned around. You’ll need your water with you.
Afterwards
If you are up for another longish walk, try the Piccabeen Circuit (approx. 6.7 km) which also starts from the Mapleton Day-Use area.
How to get there
From Mapleton township, take Obi Obi Rd and turn right into Delicia Rd. Shortly thereafter turn right into Mapleton Forest Rd, which is a dirt road but generally ok for 2WD and recreational bikes. Follow this road to the Mapleton Day Use area, set amongst towering Blackbutts. The Kureelpa Falls Circuit starts from here. Cross over Mapleton Forest Rd and take the path that begins before (nearly opposite) Lookout Rd.
For more than 250 walking, running, paddling, cycling, mountain biking and horse-riding trails on the Sunshine Coast, choose your next adventure with Adventure Sunshine Coast.
