Greenes Falls is one of the astonishing rainforest hikes near Brisbane at Maiala National Park. Situated on the border of the Moreton Bay Region in Mount Glorious, the park enables visitors a chance to immerse themselves in nature and wildlife whilst mountain hiking.
The walk is classified as a grade 3 track with some bushwalking experience recommended. The track itself is a mix of natural bush track, boardwalk and stone/timber steps with some short steep hill sections, rough surfaces and many steps. It is recommended that walkers wear running shoes in dry weather, however, if it is a muddy or wet day, hiking boots/shoes are recommended for best performance.
The walk is well signposted with distinct tracks and junctions labelled clearly. This particular walk is a medium length walk (4.3km) and will take the average person 2 to 4 hours return. Unfortunately, the walk is not pram friendly and isn’t recommended for young children due to its length.
Upon arrival, the best place to park is in the Maiala car park, adjacent to the picnic grounds. There is a large amount of parking available for visitors, however, it has been noted that the earlier hours of the day attract fewer visitors, giving you the opportunity to enjoy the serenity.
The Maiala park was named after the aboriginal word for ‘quiet place’, however, the land was actually used for logging. Following this, in 1930, Maiala became the first national park declared on the D’Aguilar Range. To the left of the entrance is a partially buried boiler, a remnant of the saw-milling industry that once dominated that same spot. Luckily for Maiala and its visitors, it has restored it’s traditional ‘quietness’ that it was historically known for. If you’re looking for an opportunity to hike near Brisbane, this is an unmissable opportunity.
The Greenes Falls track oversees rainforest pools and ends at a lookout above Greenes Falls. If you’re left with more time to explore the mountain hikes, the Cypress Grove Circuit (2km) and Rainforest Circuit (2.5km) are connected to the Greenes Falls walk for those eager to see it all. Although the Greenes Fall is not one of the biggest waterfalls in the region, it is ultimately the journey rather than the destination that makes this mountain hike so spectacular.
Wildlife1 is one of the main highlights of this track as well as the various fungi and wide fig trees (where the roots are bigger than the bodies). However, the flora and fauna are not the only exciting features of this beautiful walk. After a number of heavy days of rain, the waterfalls are gushing and provide visitors with many photo opportunities. Additionally, you’ll notice the large range of bright Fungi is more noticeable after rain too.
1Please be aware that there are many leeches on this trail. Although leeches are harmless, it is recommended that visitors wear socks with rid sprayed on to deter them.
At the beginning and end of the trail there is a large picnic area and BBQ’s. This area has lots of shade and is well maintained, perfect for families to set up a picnic and enjoy a nice morning/afternoon. If you haven’t planned that far ahead, the Elm Haus Café is a 350-metre walk down the road from the Maiala carpark.
Thanks to a partnership between Google and Queensland National Parks you can now explore Greenes Falls trail virtually before you embark on the physical hike. Take a look at the trail conditions virtually here.
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