McDonald Rainforest Circuit
Scenic Rim
Tamborine National Park
A short walk through towering strangler figs and piccabeen palms that is suitable for families.
This lightly trafficked, well-marked trail starts from a car park off of Wongawallan Road in Tamborine Mountain.
While not as scenic as other tracks in the area, the walk is short and suitable for families or those not looking for a long walk.
The walk meanders through subtropical rainforest, including towering strangler figs and piccabeen palms, as well as a carpet of ferns.
The walk is named after Jessie MacDonald, who donated part of the area to become a national park in 1933.
There is a sheltered picnic table at the start of the track.
Track: Graded and well-signed, the track is easy to follow.
Difficulty: The track is suitable for all fitness levels, with minimal elevation change.
Direction: While the track can be completed in either direction, clockwise is recommended. The loop section of the track starts a short while into the circuit.
getting there
The trail starts from the car park off of Wongawallan Road in Tamborine Mountain, 1 hour drive south of Brisbane.
Parking is ample for how trafficked the walk is.
best time to go
The walk can be completed year-round.
Always check the Queensland Parks website for updates on track closures.
Remember, whenever venturing into the outdoors, practice the Leave No Trace principles and be considerate of others. This means: dispose of your waste properly, don't remove things or move things from their natural position and respect all wildlife. Also be sure to plan ahead and adequately prepare for any adventure.
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I respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which all activities listed on this website are found, as well as Elders past, present and emerging. I strive to not promote sites where requests have been made for people not to explore due to the cultural significance of the site to Indigenous peoples, or note how to respectfully visit a site. If I have a promoted a site with cultural significance, please send me a message and let me know.