8 Reasons to Go Chasing Queen Mary Falls
The waterfall chasing in Killarney is next level, with the popular Queen Mary Falls, part of the world heritage listed Main Range National Park, providing plenty of great reasons to jump in the car…despite what TLC may have told you.
1. Only two hours from Brisbane
Image by @lisa.whitham via Instagram
If you’re driving from Brisbane or the Gold Coast, it will only take about two hours to get to Killarney, with plenty of open roads, sprawling landscapes and cafe stops along the way. We recommend take the scenic route, through Beaudesert and Boonah.
2. Walking trails for everyone
Image by @chey_ennes via Instagram
Queen Mary Falls offers two walking tracks. If you’re wanting to take it easy, head off on the easy 20 minute Cliff Circuit (400m return trip), which takes you to a viewing platform to watch the falls tumbling down the mighty 40m cliff. If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, take the 2km return Queen Mary Falls Circuit, a 40 minute walk that takes you from the lookouts at the top to the base of the waterfall and back.
3. Make new friends
Image by @lusischramm via Instagram
After a morning of waterfalls and walks, check out the friendly locals across the road at Queen Mary Falls Tourist Park. Buy some bird seed and you’ll be besties in no time with the kind parrots and crimson rosellas.
4. Check out all 3 waterfalls
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But wait, there’s more! Along with the popular Queen Mary Falls, you can also check out Browns Falls and Daggs Falls as well! Each of the waterfalls are well signed, but if you’re after clear directions, head off on the Falls Drive, which takes in all three waterfalls and some lookouts too!
5. Plenty of Places to Hang Out
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There’s plenty of space to hang at Queen Mary Falls, with a large picnic area and amenities right near the car park. All that walking will make you hungry so be sure to check into the many cafes around the area. Just up the road is Spring Creek Mountain Café, directly across the road is Queen Mary Falls Tourist Park or, you can travel into the quaint little town of Killarney for some more options. From quirky cottages to camping spots the town has a range of accommodation, so why not hang for a little while longer?
6. Photographer’s dream
Image by @emiliebrooke via Instagram
Queen Mary Falls is totally #instaworthy so be sure to snap pretty of pics and tag us @SouthernDownsandGraniteBelt. You don’t have to be a pro to take spectacular pics, with the greenery, wildlife, viewing platform and tumbling water providing plenty of good backdrops!
7. Cool off nearby
Image by @sammi_stefanie via Instagram
Although you can’t swim at Queen Mary Falls, nearby Browns Falls is a quick 600m trek through the bush to a beautiful swimming area. Please note, there is no distinct walking trail here and there is rock scrambling involved, but the swim at the end definitely makes it #worthit.
8. Glow worms and fireflies
Image by Stephen Reid Photography
From late October to November, the National Park turns into a fairy forest, with fireflies and glow worms coming out to play at dusk. Check in with the Queen Mary Falls Caravan and Tourist Park first before heading off for some local tips.
How to get to Queen Mary Falls
The Queen Mary Falls section of Main Range National Park is just over 2 hours from Brisbane and is best reached by travelling through Boonah (not suitable for caravans). If you’re travelling from Warwick, follow the signs to Killarney. Once you’re getting close, follow the signs for the Falls Drive to take in all the waterfalls.
While You’re Here
Make a weekend of it by checking out these other things to do in the area:
- National Park lover? Make sure you check out Girraween or Sundown National Park as well.
- Travelling in Spring or Summer? Here’s our top 7 must visit waterholes to check out.
- If you have the kids in tow, make sure you check out these 20 family activities in the Southern Downs and Granite Belt.