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If you want to explore a national park without breaking a sweat, the Falls Drive in the southern section of Main Range National Park is the perfect choice. This scenic drive links together four waterfalls, lookouts, and short walks – all easily accessible from your car. It’s ideal when you’re craving a nature escape but not a long hike!
Even before starting the Falls Drive itself, the journey from Brisbane through the Scenic Rim is already part of the experience. I always enjoy driving through the rolling green countryside dotted with grazing stock and tall trees.
Highlights of the Falls Drive
Carr’s Lookout
Carr’s Lookout is one of the first scenic stops on the drive. It offers wide views over the countryside from a higher elevation – a great place to breathe in the fresh air. You’ll find there the Spring Creek Mountain Café, a lovely spot for a coffee with a view.
The Queen Mary Falls
Queen Mary Falls is the star of the show – and the main reason I planned this trip. After days of rain, I couldn’t wait to see the 40-metre waterfall in full flow. You can admire it from the upper lookout, then take a short 40-minute circuit walk down to the base. The track is well-maintained and easy, making it accessible to most.
Brown’s Falls
The track to Brown’s Falls is less than 1.5 km return but don’t let the distance fool you – it involves rock hopping and some scrambling, especially after rain. It took us about half an hour each way, and although it was a bit of an adventure, the waterfall at the end made it totally worth it. Just wear good shoes!
Bonus on your way back to Brisbane:
If you’re doing the Falls Drive on a Saturday (or early Sunday), make a detour to Kooroomba Vineyards for wine tasting with a view. Another lovely way to end the day is by catching sunset at Lake Moogerah – it’s one of our favourite spots in the region to unwind.
Where to stay along the Falls Drive?
We’ve always done the Falls Drive as a day trip from Brisbane, but it also makes a great weekend getaway. If you decide to stay overnight, have a look at the Spring Creek cottages; they offer breathtaking views and a peaceful setting.
Where is the Falls Drive?
The Falls Drive begins just past Boonah and loops through the southern part of Main Range National Park, in South East Queensland. From Brisbane, it takes around two hours to reach Queen Mary Falls (without stops).
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