Mapleton Falls

If there is one thing the Sunshine Coast hinterland isn’t lacking, it is short walks to waterfalls!

Not far from the coast, near the quaint village of Mapleton, you will find Mapleton Falls National Park.

Just 50m from the car park there is a lookout that offers spectacular views over the Obi Obi valley and the canopy of the rainforest below.

To the right, the Mapleton Falls cascade 120 metres down to Pencil Creek. Unfortunately our visit was after months and months of dry conditions so we could barely see a trickle of water.  I can imagine the falls seriously flowing after some rain!

After you have taken in the view from here, you can head around on a short 1.3km walk along Woompoo Circuit which takes you through the upper parts of the rainforest here.

The pathway is not very long compared to some other coast walking tracks and it is well marked, with plenty of signs pointing out the different flora and fauna found in the area.

Along the way, you will see some of the biggest trees in the area, reaching for the skies, and hear the sounds of many birds.

You will have to be still and quick with the eye to spot some of the small black and yellow birds. They are so quick, darting here, there and everywhere, that there was no chance of capturing a picture of them flitting about the rainforest floor.

The walk will only take you 45mins to an hour, depending on how much time you spend taking it all in. There are a few steps but nothing overly strenuous.

Once you are done walking and exploring Mapleton Falls National Park, you take the time and have a picnic. There are picnic facilities not too far from the car park.

There is no overnight camping in the park but you could choose to stay some nice in Mapleton if you wanted to spend more time exploring the area.