Mapleton National Park: Gheerulla Short Loop

Highlights

On Sam Kelly road just before the dirtbike carpark and campsite, there is a dry (usually) creek crossing to a lovely little forestry loop that’s fun for mountain biking or a brisk walk.

The creek here comes all the way from Gheerulla Falls at the top of the Blackall Mountain range. Hilly terrain, open forest and scribbly gum are features of the Mapleton National Park forest in this section.

The small campsite has some amenities and provides access to the 58km Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk. Plus, there are also 26 km of Trail Bike Tracks in this area – also accessed from campground – so just listen out for motorbikes in case there are any.

You might find frogs in the creek after it has rained, however it is easier to access this walk if it is dry (and hasn’t rained).

How to get there

To the starting point: Heading north on the M1, take the Eumundi turnoff and the road to Kenilworth. About 25 kilometres later you will come to Sam Kelly Road on your left, a single lane dirt road.

From Kenilworth, it’s approximately 7.5 km, with the turn off on your right.

Follow this dirt road for approximately 1.5 km when you will cross a cattle grid. Park right by the National Park sign. The marked trail starts here off the right hand side. (The drive to the campground is beyond here but 4WD is recommended)

To the end point: The end point is the same as the starting point as it’s a small circular route.

About this place

Suitable for walking

Walking track grade: Grade 3; A formed track with some obstacles, up to 20km. Expect short steep sections and plenty of steps. Some walking experience helps.

Graded on the Queensland Parks walking track scale. Walk with care(opens in a new tab)

Managed by

Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service

Mapleton National Park

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

Contact Queensland Parks(opens in a new tab)

Safety

Hazards on this trail

Lost dirtbikes

Queensland Parks alerts

Mapleton National Park is managed by Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service. These are their current alerts for the park, and some may be about other parts of it. Park alerts in the Sunshine Coast region(opens in a new tab)

Competitive Running Event - 17th and 18th October

Planned road works in Mapleton National Park

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.

1 rating

Michaela7 years ago

This is a great spot to do some camping, and take on a number of walks. The small one that is mentioned on this website, or you can do the Gheerulla Falls circuit that takes you up the valley to the Falls, or you can brave the mountain up to the Thilba Thalba walkers camp and take in the amazing views!