Rainforest Circuit

One of the D'Aguilar Ranges' best walks for least effort, the 1.9 km Rainforest Circuit features a gorgeous palm valley, some ancient trees and a clear flowing stream with a bit of history and relics thrown in. It is suitable for children and except for the steps up at the end, gradients are mild.

1. Start at the Maiala Picnic Area, beside which there is an off road carpark. The picnic area is dotted with tables for before or after, otherwise there are several cafes nearby. This area was once a saw mill, as part of the timber industry which flourished in the area. The logging of the once prevalent hoop pines was behind much of the flooring and furniture of 19th century Brisbane and featured as floor boards in Queenslanders. Today a tiny remnant of the hoop pine plantation remains to be seen in this immediate area.

Head down to the left and through the entrance to the walk, with an info board and, to the left, a half-buried steam boiler that remains from the timber mill. Ignore the path to the right and follow the track towards Greenes Falls, past the buttressed roots of a yellow carrabeen and along a boardwalk protecting a gigantic Watkin's fig and also passing a large Sydney blue gum and brush box.

When the track comes to Browns Rd, loop back to the right and here starts the scenic descent into the palm valley with its crystal clear stream. The path loops around again gently uphill until the final steps to the top.

Looking for more ideas on short walks around Brisbane and SE Qld? Check out our 10 Best Short Bush Walks guide for a step in the right direction.