Scenic Rim

The Scenic Rim is a broad crescent of mountain country stretching from the McPherson Range on the New South Wales border through Lamington, Mount Barney, Main Range and Cunninghams Gap to the Lockyer Valley in the west. The region covers roughly 4,200 square kilometres and takes in some of the most spectacular and ecologically important mountain landscapes in south-east Queensland. The terrain is dominated by the remains of the ancient Tweed Shield Volcano and the Main Range volcanic province, with peaks exceeding 1,300 metres.

Lamington National Park, on the eastern end of the Scenic Rim, protects one of the largest and best-preserved areas of subtropical rainforest in Australia. The park is split into the Green Mountains (O'Reilly's) and Binna Burra sections, both of which offer extensive walking track networks through ancient Antarctic beech forest, subtropical rainforest and eucalypt woodland. The Tree Top Walk at O'Reilly's is a 180 metre elevated boardwalk through the canopy that has been a signature attraction since it was built. The park is part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage listing.

Mount Barney, at 1,359 metres, is the second highest peak in south-east Queensland and one of the most challenging non-technical summit climbs in the state. The peak is a volcanic plug and the ascent via the South-East Ridge involves steep scrambling through thick scrub. It is a serious bushwalk best attempted by experienced walkers with good navigation skills. The surrounding Mount Barney National Park is wild and largely untracked.

The valleys between the ranges support a thriving agricultural economy, with dairy farms, cattle properties, market gardens, vineyards and orchards. The small towns of Boonah, Beaudesert, Kalbar and Rathdowney serve the farming communities and have developed a growing food and agritourism scene. The Scenic Rim Eat Local Week (held annually) showcases the region's producers, and several farm-gate experiences operate year-round.

The Scenic Rim Trail, operated by Spicers Retreats, is a guided multi-day walk through private conservation land linking luxury mountain lodges. It is one of the premier guided walks in Queensland. The region is at its best in autumn and winter (March to August), when the air is crisp, the skies are clear and the mountain views are at their sharpest. The eastern sections (Lamington, Springbrook) can be reached in about 90 minutes from Brisbane or the Gold Coast.