Mary Cairncross: Interpretive Boardwalk, Maleny

Highlights

The Rainforest Discovery Centre – opened in 2017 – is the main access point into the rainforest and the rainforest walks. It provides a rich interpretive experience of the park's environment. Go through the Discovery Centre to a rising boardwalk that gently curves through the diverse forest before leading back to level 2 of the Centre and out onto a viewing platform for the Glasshouse mountains. There is a lift or stairs to drop back down to the café for a cuppa.

Afterwards

Experience more of the Mary Cairncross scenic subtropical rainforest reserve with 2 other walking options – the Richmond Birdwing Butterfly Path or the longer (3km) Rainforest Walk.

When you are done you can take in the spectacular view of the Glass House Mountains as you relax at the café or enjoy a picnic on the open grass and watch the pademelon wallabies.

Souvenirs can also be bought at the kiosk, including many books featuring the flora and fauna of this rich environment. Facilities include disabled toilets.

How to get there

To the starting point: Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve is perched high in the Sunshine Coast hinterland. Travelling from Landsborough, turn off Landsborough-Maleny Road into Mountain View Road at Bald Knob. Head to 148 Mountain View Road (about 1.4 km along) where you’ll find a car pack, picnic grounds, a kiosk and café,as well as a natural history / interpretive centre known as the Discovery Centre.

About this place

Suitable for walking
Drinking water available
Barbeque on site
Picnic table on site
Toilets on site
Playground on site

Walking track grade: Grade 1; Flat and well formed with no steps, and no longer than 5km. Signposted the whole way, and suitable for a wheelchair with someone to help.

What the difficulty grades mean

Managed by

Sunshine Coast Council

To report damage, a hazard or another problem with the trail:

Safety

In an emergency, call 000. Always adventure safely!

Always follow any local signage, it contains key information and conditions can change at any time.
Use the trails with consideration for your abilities, be prepared for the adventure ahead:
- Be aware of the weather conditions, found here: Bureau of Meteorology — Queensland(opens in a new tab)
- Always wear appropriate clothing, focus on good footwear.
- Always bring more water than you think you will need.
- Be Sun Safe!
- Always let someone know where you are going that isn't going with you.
Just getting started try this site for good useful information: Trail Hiking Australia — hike safety(opens in a new tab)
Sunshine Coast Council does its best to keep this information current, but things change, so be aware that a trail may not be as listed here.

2 ratings

Yvette7 years ago

Short little wander off the visitors centre that is excellent for mobility concerns. My Mother and children got to do a small wander inside the rainforest without much effort and saw beautiful flora and fauna. nobody got to miss out on appreciating the amazing sights and sounds of Mary Cairncross park - another thoughtful part of an incredible Visitor Centre. something for everyone.

Rebecca8 years ago

This is a great walk for the family with lots to see. There is a bat colony, loads of lizards and butterflies and also if you are quiet you might even be lucky and see some pademelons. Only downfall is the mozzies which can only be expected in a rainforest environment. Bring repellant. Other than that, there is a great playground and open grass area for the kids. At the Mary Cairncross Discovery Centre you will also learn so much about the rainforest area with fantastic volunteers there to answer any of your questions. They only ask for a gold coin donation in return. Great family day out!