10 Best Bunya Mountains Walking Tracks in the National Park!

Are you planning a trip to the Bunya Mountains and wondering which walking tracks are worth your time? Located in Queensland’s high country, this national park is a haven of lush rainforest, large bunya pines, and incredible lookouts. For first-time visitors, hiking is by far one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of the region.

The challenge is knowing where to start? With so many trails ranging from short, easy strolls to longer circuits, it can be overwhelming to decide which track suits your time, fitness, or interests.

I used to live in nearby Toowoomba, and on a recent visit I finally tackled several of the Bunya Mountains walking tracks myself. I’ll share my personal experience, highlight the must-do trails, and give you practical tips so you can make the most of your visit to the Bunya Mountains.

This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission. Please read my disclaimer, T&C’s & privacy policy here.

10 Amazing Bunya Mountains Walking Trails

The Bunya Mountains National Park is located about 1.5 hours north of Toowoomba, or 3 hours North West of the Queensland capital of Brisbane.

It can easily be accessed by a two-wheel drive vehicle, however, the roads in the last hour are a little run down and may have potholes.

What’s great about the walking trails is that you can design a hike around your schedule and fitness level. Most of the hiking trails lead into each other, so you can make a shorter walking trail into a longer one by joining them together.

You can access the Bunya Mountains Hiking Map Here to start planning today, or check out my quick reference table here to get you started. Otherwise, you can read more details about each trail further down.

TIP: Know that you can use Toowoomba as a base for exploring Bunya Mountains National Park, and offers a wide range of attractions of its own. It’s called the “Garden City,” and it’s famous for its stunning parks, seasonal flower displays, and the annual Carnival of Flowers festival in spring.

1. Bunya Bunya Track

• Distance: 500 metres
• Time: 10 minutes
• Class: Grade 3 Walking Track

The Bunya Bunya Track is one of the most popular walking trails in the Bunya Mountains. It showcases plenty of the impressive Bunya Pines and conveniently begins right from Dandabah.

Unfortunately, the track was closed during my visit, so it’s always best to check in with the visitor information centre for the latest updates before you head out.

That said, you won’t miss out on seeing these incredible ancient trees. The Dandabah area itself is full of Bunyas, and many of the other hiking trails wind through forests where they tower overhead, creating that magical atmosphere the park is so well known for.

2. Scenic Circuit

• Distance: 4 kilometres return on a Loop Track
• Time: 1.5 hours return
• Class: Grade 3 Walking Track

The Scenic Circuit is a loop walk that begins right from the main car park at Dandabah, making it one of the most accessible trails in the Bunya Mountains.

We really enjoyed this track, as it offers a bit of everything, from one of the park’s largest waterfalls to smaller gems like Festoon Falls, as well as towering Bunya Pines, giant strangler figs, and the scenic Pine Gorge lookout.

This walk is a great choice if you want variety without committing to a long hike. For those with extra energy, you can extend the route into the Barker Creek section, where you’ll be rewarded with Paradise Waterfall and another stunning lookout point.

3. Mt Kiangarow track

• Distance: 2.3 kilometres return on the same track
• Time: 1-hour return
• Class: Grade 3 Walking Track

Mount Kiangarow is one of the highest points in the Bunya Mountains, and while the walk is mostly uphill, we didn’t find it overly difficult or strenuous.

The morning began with clear blue skies, but by the time we reached the summit, a heavy mist had rolled in, so we could barely see five metres in front of us! It made for a bit of a laugh, though it did mean we missed out on the sweeping views this lookout is usually known for.

The track itself was a little boggy from recent rain, adding to the sense of adventure. Along the way, we spotted several tiny birds darting across the path and plenty of striking grass trees (commonly called Black Boy Trees), which really gave the trail that classic Australian bush feel.

On a clear day, the views from the top would be spectacular (which we eventually saw later on in the day), stretching across the mountains and plains beyond.

4. Barker Creek Circuit

• Distance: 10 kilometres return on a loop track
• Time: 3 to 4 hours return
• Class: Grade 3 Walking Track

You can begin the Barker Creek Circuit hike from two different access points, either Dandabah or the Paradise Car Park.

While Paradise Car Park offers the closest access, it’s quite small with only around 5–10 Car spaces available. During peak times or weekends, it’s often easier (and less stressful) to start from the larger Dandabah car park.

Along the trail, you’ll be treated to a series of stunning waterfalls. Highlights include Tim Shea Falls, the charming Little Falls, and, if you extend the walk to the lookout, the impressive Big Falls, which plunges a dramatic 122 metres into the gorge below.

The combination of tranquil cascades and one of the park’s most striking drop-offs makes this hike one of the most rewarding in the Bunya Mountains.

Do you need help planning your trip to Queensland? Book a one-on-one consultation call with me, to get your questions answered & personalised help!

5. Barker Creek Lookout

• Distance: 5.4 kilometres return on the same track from Paradise Car Park
• Time: 2 hours return from Paradise
• Class: Grade 3 Walking Track

As mentioned above, the Barker Creek Lookout hike branches off the main Barker Creek Trail, and many walkers choose to tackle it specifically for the chance to see Big Falls. You can begin from either Dandabah or the smaller Paradise Car Park, giving you flexibility depending on how much time and energy you have.

One of the best parts about this section is the variety of options available, you can easily mix and match trails to suit your day. For example, a popular choice is to complete the Scenic Circuit starting at Dandabah, then extend the walk to include the Barker Creek Lookout for breath-taking views over the gorge and Big Falls.

On the return, you can re-join the Scenic Circuit and complete the remainder of the loop, giving you a diverse combination of waterfalls, lookouts, and iconic Bunya Pines all in one hike.

This flexibility makes it easy to design your own adventure, whether you’re after a shorter stroll to a single highlight or a full-day walk to soak up as much of the Bunya Mountains as possible.

6. Dandabah to Paradise

• Distance: 3 kilometres one way
• Time: 1 hour one way
• Class: Grade 3 Walking Track

With limited time, we chose to hike to Paradise Falls from the Paradise Car Park, which took us only about 30 minutes return. While the falls themselves were quite small and not particularly dramatic, they still added to the lush rainforest atmosphere, with the soothing sounds of flowing water enhancing the experience.

Since this track is a one-way section, it does require a bit of forethought when it comes to returning to your starting point. For that reason, I’d recommend including Paradise Falls as part of the Barker Creek Circuit rather than walking it on its own.

That way, the journey feels more rewarding, as you’ll combine several waterfalls and lookouts into a single, well-rounded hike.

7. Paradise to Westcott (Westcliff Track)

• Distance: 3.2 kilometres one way or double return (1.5km return by road)
• Time: 1.25 hours one way
• Class: Grade 3 Walking Track

Westcott is a handy spot to base part of your visit, as it offers bathrooms, picnic tables, barbecues, and even an off-grid tent camping area. This makes it a convenient place to plan your itinerary around, especially if you’d like to enjoy a meal outdoors or take a break before heading to the nearby Westcliff Lookout.

The walking trail here is a one-way section, you can either return via the same path or shorten the trip by walking back along the roadside.

Compared to the busier areas like Dandabah, Westcott tends to be quieter, making it an ideal location for a relaxed picnic, a small gathering, or even a hiking club meetup surrounded by nature.

8. Koondaii Circuit

• Distance: 2.5 kilometres return
• Time: 1-hour return
• Class: Grade 4 Walking Track

The Koondaii Circuit is an alternative trail that begins at the Westcott day-use and camping area. Although it’s a shorter walk, it’s considered a little more challenging than some of the other tracks in the park, making it a great option for those looking to stretch their legs with something slightly tougher.

This circuit takes you on a peaceful journey through lush forest, offering a quieter, less-traveled experience compared to the more popular routes around Dandabah.

The highlight is reaching the lookout point, where you can enjoy sweeping views across the landscape, including the distant township of Bell nestled on the horizon. It’s a rewarding track for those who enjoy tranquillity and a sense of remoteness.

9. Westcott to Cherry Plain

• Distance: 4.8 kilometres one way or double return (1.8km return by road)
• Time: 1.5 to 2 hours one way
• Class: Grade 4 Walking Track

Both the Westcott to Cherry Plain hike and the one below offer multiple lookout points and unique highlights that change with the seasons. If you’re visiting in September or October, you’ll be treated to the spectacular sight of King Orchids in full bloom, splashing the cliffs and forest edges with vibrant yellow.

On a clear day, the valley views are amazing, stretching out endlessly before you (though heavy fog can quickly turn them into a mysterious white-out!).

The tracks wind through forest and along dramatic cliff edges. Offering a mix of scenery that keeps the walk interesting from start to finish. For those short on time, the return journey can be shortened by following the roadside back to the starting point.

10. Cherry Plain to Burton Well

• Distance: 6 kilometres one way or double return (2.4km return by road)
• Time: 2 hours one way.
• Class: Grade 4 Walking Track.

The Cherry Plain to Burton Well section in Bunya Mountains National Park is one of the more rewarding walks, linking two popular picnic and camping areas.

The track winds through towering bunya pines, eucalypt forest, and open grasslands. This showcases the diversity of the park’s landscapes in just one hike. Along the way, you’ll find several lookout points with sweeping views over the surrounding valleys, making it a favourite for photographers and nature lovers.

Whether you’re starting at Cherry Plain or Burton Well, both ends offer good facilities. This includes picnic tables, barbecues, and amenities, making it easy to plan a rest stop or even a full day’s outing around this trail.

Where to Stay!

If you plan to hang around for a longer trips, then you are spoilt for options. The area is known for the Mountain or valley viewing Chalets. Fully equipped with wood fire heaters, and local wildlife in quiet, romantic surroundings.

However, in researching this area, I did find that most of the accommodations close to the Bunya Mountains National Park had a minimum two-night stay.

➡  Search for Accommodation Deals HERE with Boooking.com

While there is plenty to do over a few days, sometimes it could be costly and not within everyone’s budget. Therefore, know that Toowoomba has many accommodation choices (which is where I stayed) and Dalby has a few motels and hotels.

Know that both are close by, and heaps more options to suit everyone.  

Facilities at Dandabah

What is Dandabah, you ask? Dandabah is a purpose-built village or town built to help service people visiting the Bunya Mountains National Park.

You will find a café, restaurant, small grocery store, tourist information, and a souvenir store. There is also where most of the parking spaces are and where some of the walking trails start from.

If your lucky to visit on the weekend, then you might also see the horse and carriage rides available to purchase.

Here are a few facilities listed below:

• Picnic Tables
• Information Centre
• Barbeques
• Caravan Park
• General/Souvenir Store
• Car Parking
• Restaurants / Cafes
• Rubbish Bins
• Toilets
• Walking Tracks
• Mountain Accommodation

About The Bunya Pine Tree and the Bunya Nut

The Bunya Pine Tree (Araucaria bidwillii) grows in Queensland, Australia.

It’s a living fossil and is often called the Bunya, Bunya Bunya or the Monkey Puzzle tree. It’s a massive tree ( 20 to 50 metres in height), dome-shaped, with pine needles that form much like a Pine Cone.

From December to March each year, the trees produce dozens of massive cones filled with nuts. They are green-looking, covered in spikes, and often referred to as nature’s cannonball.

These can weigh up to 10 kilograms each and drop at any notice to the ground. This can shock the unsuspecting people below or even known to dint cars.

Within each Cone, there can be anything from 50 to 100 nuts inside, and while it might be called the “Bunya Nut”, it tastes much like a chestnut.

There are many different ways to prepare the Bunya Nut, including boiling, roasting, or using it for pancakes, biscuits, or bread. It’s long been known as Bush Tucker to the Aboriginal People, and should always be removed from its shell before eating.

Unfortunately, It was out of season on my visit and I couldn’t purchase any of the Nut products from the store. I guess that’s a reason for another visit!

Note: The traditional owners of the Bunya Mountains are the Wakka Wakka, Jorowair, and Barrumgum aboriginal tribes. 

Are there fireflies?

If you’re lucky enough to visit the Bunya Mountains National Park in October/ November, fireflies can be seen around dusk.

This happens at the Fisher’s Lookout forest line for about an hour, so make sure you come early. Sit back, watch the sunset, and then be amazed at the light show.

Phone Reception & Wi-Fi?

Data or Wi-Fi service is a bit touch and go and shouldn’t be relied on.

I did manage to get a little service near the information centre and restaurants, but it wasn’t terrific. There was even less on the walking tracks, but this is when I use flight mode to save battery power anyway.

You’ll find Wi-Fi is available selectively available.

This includes places like your accommodation and maybe the Tavern. If you need to stay online somewhere, it’s probably best to check with your accommodation beforehand. However, I wouldn’t expect it to be that fast. 

Wrap up!

Thanks for reading this blog post today on the Bunya Mountains Walks & Hiking Trails and I hope you found the information you were looking for. However, if you’re still researching, then you can find more Queensland articles HERE for planning and inspiration.

• Girraween National Park Walking Trails near Stanthorpe
• Best Carnarvon Gorge Walks & Sites in the National Park
• Things to see on a Brisbane to Cairns Road trip
• Exposing the Downsides to a Great Barrier Reef Pontoon Tour
• Tips to know BEFORE planning a Queensland Road Trip
• Is Australia Boring? Reasons why it’s Not with Photo’s
• Best Australian Waterfalls you must see