Ridge Track
Scenic Rim
Main Range National Park (Goomburra)
A steep walk through varying terrain and flora, that is still surprisingly enjoyable despite the restricted views.
This lightly trafficked trail, which is a mix of well-marked and faint paths, is located in the Goomburra Section of Main Range National Park and starts at the Manna Gum Camping Area at the end of Forestry Reserve Road.
The circuit begins on a wide and well-maintained fire trail through open eucalypt forest, climbing steadily for approximately two kilometres to the Spicers Retreat for Scenic Rim Trail walkers.
The track then heads right, continuing further up onto the ridge, before heading right again at a junction with the Scenic Rim Trail. The track gradually narrows as you descend down the ridge.
There are numerous vegetation changes along the walk, some of which are dramatic and rapid. The track is certainly one for lovers of flora, with hoop pines, blackbutts and she-oaks, lush rainforest, and open eucalypt forest dotted with wildflowers all featured along the walk.
There are obstructed views into the Dalrymple Creek valley below, as well as to the surrounding ranges, but you will be setting yourself up for disappointment if expecting classic Goomburra lookouts on this track.
Nonetheless, the path is rugged, narrow and often overgrown, adding to the sense of adventure. The track almost has an off-track vibe to it, as you often cannot see the track up ahead, however it is still quite visible in the immediate sense.
Long pants, sturdy shoes and gaiters are highly recommended, especially if completing the track in warmer months.
Keep an eye and an ear open for black-cockatoos who feed almost exclusively on the seeds of the she-oaks in the area.
Track: Graded and well-signed, the track is relatively easy to follow. However, it is rough, narrow and overgrown along the descent down the ridge. While this will add to the sense of adventure for some, it may make others uncomfortable, so consider this before completing the walk. The ascent is primarily along wide and well-maintained fire trails, while the descent is through open eucalypt along steep, rugged paths that are narrow and overgrown.
Difficulty: The track is steep for almost its entirety, with the first three kilometres ascending up an average 10% grade, followed by a similar descent along rugged and narrow paths. The circuit requires a moderate to high level of fitness. Care should be taken when descending the ridge as the path is at times loose underfoot and the track overgrown. This track is unlikely to be enjoyable during or after heavy rain.
Direction: While the track can be completed in either direction, it is highly recommended to complete it in a clockwise direction. By doing this, the ascent is primarily along well-maintained fire trails, with the descent along the narrow and rugged path (ascending via this path would be unnecessarily difficult).
getting there
The trail starts from the Manna Gum Camping Area at the end of Forestry Reserve Road in Goomburra, 2.5 hours drive south-west of Brisbane.
The car park is small but there is additional parking a short walk away at Poplar Flat Camping Area.
best time to go
The walk can be completed year-round. If completing in the warmer months, take plenty of water and wear long pants and gaiters.
Check the Ipswich City Council 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.