Bluap

2024 walks and events program

For those new to Horizon Guides – welcome - It will be great to meet you on a walk soon. Horizon Guides has been sharing the Scenic Rim with walkers since 2008 – we love our back yard! Our walks are all about enjoying being outside – observing the worlds about us, learning about the life we encounter, enjoying the views, breathing deeply and carrying some of that peace back home. They are also about learning how to bushwalk safely and managing ourselves in different conditions with small groups of like-minded souls. By hiking regularly, over time, you’ll develop a great repertoire of skills and grow in confidence for future adventures. The Scenic Rim offers a tremendous variety of bushwalking challenges and is an excellent place to truly become a ‘bushwalker’!

As a thank you to our guests we are GIVING AWAY a Helinox Chair ZERO (RRP $199.95) to one lucky person – wow! At only 500gms, this is an accessory you will quickly find is your best friend – and it will stay in your pack and go with you everywhere ? We will draw this on  30 June - so you still have time to enter...
 
The offer is simple and works as follows:
- Make a reservation and pay for two of the walks in advance.
- The first 25 people to do this will be in the draw to win the chair! You can either drop in to Far Outdoors in Boonah to collect, be united with it on your first bushwalk or we will post it to you.

This program is for our walks from June - November 2024. Most are Sunday walks but look out for the Wednesday ones - lovely mid-week escapes!

Contact us if you have any queries about particular walks or concerns about your ability to participate.

To reserve your walks: Send us an This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with your preferred walks and attach your completed reservation form. You can download the PDF reservation / medical consent form and T&Cs from the links below. Don’t take too long to decide as the walks generally book out very quickly (some within a few days!). Once we have received your reservation request we will respond to confirm your booking.

SPOTS AVAILABLE from current program WALK 15: Campbell’s Folly (Private Property) Approx 5 hrs walking + lunch time. GRADE: Challenging – rough off-track. Cliff edges in places. 
Sunday 16 June Cost: $95 pp ($10 pp donated to the property owners)
Some places are just magic and ‘The Rock’ property is one of them. Towering above the family home are tremendous cave-dotted cliffs, home to peregrine falcons, rock wallabies and many unique plant species. Geologically it’s part of the Mt Gillies Rhyolite unit, outliers to Mt Barney.
The approach is through rolling green paddocks with awe-inspiring views of Mt Lindesay from every angle. Making our way up the wooded western slope of the peak we eventually reach the top – and the wonderful vista. We return by the same route.
  

WALK 1: Paddy’s Ridge area explore (Mt Barney NP) Approx 8km 5 – 6 hrs. GRADE: Moderate +

Sunday 30 June  Cost: $85 pp
This off-track bushwalk southwest of Mt Maroon to Paddy’s Falls is an adventurous outing in the heart of wild country. We have options for a loop walk that takes in nearby ridges and features. There are interesting cliff areas and magnificent views that you won’t see on a regular excursion into this area. NB We cross Mt Barney Creek near the trail-head at the start and finish of the walk. Note: The trip will suit bush walkers with some experience keen for a real ‘off-track’ adventure. You must be confident walking on natural terrain (no track).

*** JUST 3 PLACES LEFT *** on our  Introduction to Navigation Course with Caro Ryan from Lots of Fresh Air - an excellent course for everyone who loves to go bush! 13 - 15 July 2024

WALK 2: Mt Matthieson Circuit (Main Range NP) 8km. Approx. 6 hrs GRADE: Moderate track with some short, steep rough sections.
Sunday 21 July Cost: $95 pp
There is nothing quite as magical as being in the bush as day gives way to the night – especially on a full moon!  Mt Matthieson is a favourite circuit walk and one of the most diverse and historically interesting circuits on the Range. Starting at the Spicer’s Gap picnic area near the pioneer grave site the track climbs gradually through rainforest before coming onto a ridgeline of open eucalypt forest. From Mt Matthieson (752m) the track follows a sharp ridge with bird’s eye views of the Great Divide. Small volcanic cliffs add variety with ferns and orchids sheltering in their crevices. Turning southwest the track meanders through rainforest before opening out onto old logging tracks and joining the historic basalt-cobbled pioneer road. This takes us back to the start via the Governors Chair lookout where we will have dinner and watch the moonrise from 5pm. From here it’s about a 30-minute walk to the vehicles.

WALK 3: Waterfall Gorge – Mt Greville (Moogerah Peaks NP) 7+ hrs. GRADE: Challenging. Rough and rocky.
Sunday 4 August Cost: $95 
This rugged little peak is one of the gems of the Fassifern. It has such wonderful diversity of habitat, flora and fauna that every turn in the track is a surprise. The route ascends the peak via Waterfall Gorge threading through a jumbled array of rocks between narrow towering cliffs that protect Piccabeen palms and giant White Beech trees. Emerging from the Gorge the route crosses the forested ridge to a magnificent lookout before joining the walking track to the summit. The return route to the vehicles brings us back through heath-land and over rhyolite slabs that support many wildflowers, ferns and orchids and on through open forest to complete the circuit.

WALK 4: Rocky Knoll - Goolman Lookout Circuit, Hardings Paddock. 7.5km 4 - 5 hrs GRADE: Moderate
Sunday 18 August Cost: $85 

"The Flinders-Goolman conservation estate is over 1900 hectares in area supporting extensive forests and rugged volcanic peaks and slopes including Flinders Peak, and Mounts Blaine, Catherine and Goolman. The Estate is an important wildlife refuge supporting 136 bird, 25 mammal, 13 reptile and 8 amphibian species as well as 531 different flora species. The multi-user Goolman Lookout trail winds its way to Goolman Lookout where you enjoy spectacular views of Mt Goolman and Ivory's Rock, Scenic Rim and Brisbane. On a clear day, it's possible to see the Pacific Ocean." (Tourism & Events Qld) The trail is wide and straightforward and it's a lovely walk practically on the doorstep of the city.

WALK 5: Boonah Border Gate to Kinnanes Falls (Main Range NP) 7.5km 5 - 6 hrs + travel time. GRADE: Moderate/Challenging OFF TRACK. 
Sunday 25 August Cost: $95 pp
Today’s bush walk begins with some very scenic driving to position cars at the end of the walk on the Head Road then driving up Carney’s Creek Road to the Rabbit Fence where we will begin the walk.
The first few kms provides easy going (up and over a couple of knolls) along the Fence with tall forests all around. The point where we begin the descent to Kinnanes has panoramic views across the Fassifern – a good spot to stop for a snack. From here it’s ‘off-track’ all the way and great attention to what’s underfoot will be needed! The grass is long and rocks are plenty… fortunately, the views are splendid and we will pause often enough to enjoy them. Wilson’s Creek is reached via a beautiful grass-tree covered spur and it’s from here that the waters spill over multi-tiered Kinnanes Falls – one of the most beautiful sights in the Main Range. Then it’s a VERY steep descent to the Head Road and our cars.
We can make this a round-trip scenic trip by driving up the Head Road and back to the Border Gate via White Swamp.

WALK 6: Cascades Circuit (Main Range NP – Goomburra) Approx. 6.5km return 5 – 6 hrs. GRADE: Moderate
Sunday 1 Sept Cost: $95 pp
This is a very lovely walk that commences at the Manna Gum camping area and follows the course of Dalrymple Creek up to its headwaters. There is plenty of opportunity to enjoy the cascades and pools along the ascent track. There are some steep sections but there's no rush! The circuit is completed via old logging trails that follow the ridge before dropping steeply back down to the trailhead.

WALK 7: Secret Spring (Mt Maroon foothills) Approx. 10 km 4 - 5 hrs GRADE: Easy / moderate. Through walk on fire trails.
Sunday 8 September Cost: $85 pp
Mt Maroon has many secrets and today we visit a sweet spring that runs tea-coloured clear all year round – even during the deepest drought. Most of our walk is through eucalypt forest and along the way vistas open out on to the peaks and valleys of the Mt Barney area. Being in the foothills the terrain is undulating so you can expect some short ascents and descents. Our walk starts at Cotswold Rd and ends at Mt Barney Creek. A car shuffle is required.

WALK 8: Caves Track – 3km and Gwongoorool Pool – 5.8km return Elev. +/- 250m (Lamington NP – Binna Burra) 6 – 7 hrs GRADE: Moderate (there are many stairs!!)
WEDNESDAY 18 September Cost: $85 pp
What a lovely treat to go for a beautiful bushwalk on a Spring Wednesday! Today is a link up of two of the Lamington’s classic short walks. Beginning near the Binna Burra Teahouse the graded track is an intriguing journey through different forest zones thriving on steep western slopes above the Coomera River valley. As the track loses altitude eons of volcanic geology are revealed culminating in spectacular caves carved out of the escarpment. The track takes us up to the Visitor Centre then onto the Gwongoorool Pool track. This return track culminates in a gorgeous pool on the Coomera River.

WALK 9: Lizard Point (Main Range NP) Approx. 12km / 9 hours return. Steep & rough terrain. Challenging. 
Sunday 22 September Cost: $95 pp
Lizard Point juts from the Main Range as a prominent shelf on the skyline north of Mt Roberts. It’s quite a spectacular view-point from which to survey the headwaters of Carneys and Wild Cattle Creeks and many of the peaks of the Fassifern. This ridge walk through dense rainforest is rough and challenging. From Teviot Gap it involves a steep climb following the line of the old rabbit fence to gain the ridgeline and then takes a rough rocky foot track through rainforest and over Mt Roberts (1327m) before the trail brings us out to Lizard Point. We return by the same route.

WALK 10: PROPOSED Pack trek on Rabbit Board Fence. Approx. 45km over 3 days Easy/moderate.
Saturday 5 - Monday 7 October. COST: TBA
We are taking expressions of interest in this fun trek involving self-supported hiking - that is carrying all your own kit! A great introduction to multi-day pack walking in a supportive environment.

WALK 11: Dave’s Creek Circuit (Lamington NP, Binna Burra Section) 12 km Approx. 5 – 6hrs. Moderate.
WEDNESDAY 16 October Cost: $85
This walk is a wonderful introduction to the botanical diversity of the eastern Lamington Plateau and the geology on which it thrives. Beginning on the Border Track the track “descends through the head of Kurraragin Valley out into Daves Creek country. The circuit passes through several distinctive vegetation types: warm and cool subtropical rainforest along the Border Track; warm temperate rainforest, containing many examples of ancient angiosperms such as coachwood Ceratopetalum apetalum, in Nixon Creek's headwaters; and wet sclerophyll forest with giant New England ash Eucalyptus campanulata.” (NPRSR track note) Besides the vegetation, panoramic views and interesting geologic features such Molongolee Cave and Surprise Rock make this walk intriguing at every turn.
A variant for the return trip will take us off the Border Track along the Tullawallal Track to stand in an ancient grove of Antarctic Beech (Nothofagus moorei).

TASSIE TRACKS: Southern Sojourn To round out your year of walking why not join our 10 day Tassie Tracks: Southern Sojourn 9 -18 November! Full details are almost finalised... our itinerary takes in iconic walks at Tasman Peninsula - Huon Valley - Bruny Island. Carry only a day-pack - head down to Tassie this summer and breath deep of that glorious southern air!

NB Please remember the program is SUBJECT TO CHANGE FOR A VARIETY OF REASONS, including adverse weather forecasts, at the discretion of our guides.

ABOUT OUR WALKS Our day-long eco-interpreted bushwalks are open to anyone with an urge to get out and experience the magnificent Scenic Rim region – and beyond. Groups are small and walks are spaced out to allow time for recovery (and training) for the next walk. You can do as many or few walks as you wish but bear in mind that it’s a good idea to keep up regular walking in between to maintain fitness for the next hike. The hikes offer a range of challenges so read the notes carefully before reserving your place.

These are group hikes and natural history interpretation is an integral part of the guided experience. You are expected to stay with the group. These are NOT fast-paced races to a destination!    No drones please. 

Our aim is to get out and explore the many facets of our amazing region, note the changes and develop a deeper understanding of the natural richness on our doorstep and, of course, become walking fit with a wonderful group of like-minded bushwalkers.

The nature of the Scenic Rim terrain means that there are few ‘easy’ walks on graded trails. The majority of routes feature uneven ground and ascents and descents, often with rocky sections. The gradients are sometimes very steep. We always allow plenty of time to complete walks so that there is not the necessity to speed through walks or to feel you are not keeping up.

PLEASE NOTE: Participants transport themselves to the start of the walk after meeting at the pre-arranged rendezvous point for the day. (Usually an optional car pool is arranged on the day.) Details of the meeting place and times are emailed one week prior to the walk, along with the names of fellow walkers and a list of necessary items to bring.

Come walking with Horizon Guides this season! 
See you all very soon - yours in bushwalking.

Yours Guides,

Teresa and Sally

Feel like you need a long walk in high places?  Treat yourself to a very special Scenic Rim journey this walk season!
The Border country between Queensland and NSW offers many magnificent and intriguing walking opportunities. Our three-day adventure traces the watershed along the spine of the McPherson Range. Taking in remote sections of the historic Rabbit Board Fence this route is one that few people know but the stories from history resonate at every turn and the modern settlers have tales to tell. The forests are lush and alive with bush fragrance, rich colours and birdsong, including the elusive Albert’s Lyrebird.

The journey is vehicle supported, so you need only carry a day pack with personal gear for each day. Camps are on private property where we will be the only guests.

Day 1 (Approx. 11km) The first day begins in the foothills east of towering Mt Lindesay. The Old Highway Road is but a dirt track through grassy paddocks leading to King George Gate and into NSW. To the south lies the Border Ranges NP. Turning left along the Rabbit Board Fence, the roller coaster trail stretches on through many forest types with spectacular viewpoints.
 
Skirting the precipitous peak of Glennies Chair we arrive at a palm-fringed oasis for morning tea. A short steep climb brings us back to the Fence and our trail rolls on through eucalypt forests and magnificent sections of rainforest. On our northern side, part of Mt Barney NP protects the steep upper catchments flowing to Palen Creek.
 
Descending from the Fence the track brings us to a lush Rabbit Board Reserve paddock where we’ll enjoy lunch and cuppa before heading down a steep spur to meet with our support van for the short drive to Campbell’s Folly, our campsite for the evening. Clyde and Kym Bignall beautifully maintain this piece of paradise and warmly welcome us to their place.
 
Day 2 (Approx. 12km) The dawn chorus of birds and a hot cuppa by the campfire sets the tone for the second day of our walk. After packing lunch and enjoying a hearty breakfast prepared by our hosts we return to where we left off yesterday for the invigorating climb back up to the Fence. Much of this section is through rainforest at altitudes ranging from 650m to 782m. There are some spectacular outlooks and some challenging ‘Big Dippers’ as the Fence dives down steep slopes to a saddle below then climbs back up again to regain the meters lost!
Soon after this we pass through private property and take in panoramic views over the Finger Lime orchards. From here we can look back and trace the ranges that we’ve traversed since beginning our walk.
Continuing on the fence we take an access road that brings us to Wild Mountains camp - a welcome sight! Richard and Susan Zoomers are our hosts here and they will give us a tour around before we settle in to our tents and relax around the campfire until 'sundowners', then dinner, a short stroll away in the main hall.
 
Day 3 (Approx.16km) After a hearty breakfast and a fond farewell we retrace our steps from the previous afternoon and greet our now-familiar Fence. This part of the trail is adjacent to Lever’s Plateau in the Border Ranges NP and small sections of Chinghee NP on the Queensland side. Long Creek rises here and on our way we pass the cascades and ravines of Long Falls. Our rollercoaster walk continues with many knolls and saddles to cross however we are loosing altitude all the way down to the Lion’s Road on the Qld/NSW Border. Spectacular views open up to the east as we enter the cleared farmland overlooking Running Creek Road and the Brisbane – Sydney Railway line far below us. Shortly before we end our long walk we cross the railway tunnel beneath the mountain. The Fence continues on past Mount Gipps from Richmond Gap however we will farewell it here and board our van for the return trip to Boonah.

Cost: $TBA per person ex. Boonah Qld $500 deposit required.
Includes: Walking eco-guide, Story guide and tour support guide, all meals (from lunch Day 1 to lunch Day 3), sunset drinks (wine/beer/non-alcoholic) and cheese platter both evenings, use of private camp sites with hot showers, vehicle support and return transport from Boonah.

Special Notes:
- There are many sharp ascents and descents (no stairs) that may not suit a person with knee or other physical issues or heart conditions. Trekking poles are recommended.
- Personal overnight gear is transported to the bush campsites at Campbell's Folly and Wild Mountains. Camping information and a comprehensive packing list will be provided on booking.
- Special dietary requests will be catered for with notice. Meals at Wild Mountains are all vegetarian.

Please respond by This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to make a reservation and receive further details.

Guest numbers are strictly limited to nine people. Your reservation request will be confirmed by return email, then you will receive a booking form as well as a medical consent form. These forms must be competed and signed then returned to Horizon Guides via post or email, along with confirmation of deposit.
In the event that the walk is already fully booked you will be placed on a waiting list for this adventure.

Yours in bushwalking,
Teresa

ABOUT OUR WALKS Our eco-interpreted bushwalks are open to anyone with an urge to get out and experience the magnificent Scenic Rim region – and beyond.

This is a guided group trek and natural history interpretation is an integral part of the guided experience. You are expected to stay with the group. These are NOT fast-paced races to a destination!    No drones please. 

Our aim is to get out and explore the many facets of our amazing region, note the changes and develop a deeper understanding of the natural richness on our doorstep and, of course, become walking fit with a wonderful group of like-minded bushwalkers.

The nature of the Scenic Rim terrain means that there are few ‘easy’ walks on graded trails. The majority of routes feature uneven ground and ascents and descents, often with rocky sections. The gradients are sometimes very steep. We always allow plenty of time to complete walks so that there is not the necessity to speed through walks or to feel you are not keeping up.

Come walking with Horizon Guides this season! 

INTRODUCTION TO NAVIGATION with Caro Ryan of LotsaFreshAir.

To reserve your place, first This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to make sure there is space (if the course is full you can request to be placed on a waiting list).

Day One (Classroom) & Day Two (Field) Sat 13, Sun 14 July 2024

What you’ll learn:

Over two jam-packed days, you’ll learn the foundations of navigating with a map and compass for tracked and untracked areas. Topics will include:

• Reading, understanding (and falling in love with) topographic maps
• Learning to ‘read the ground’
• Demystifying stuff like datums, projections, scales, declination and the ‘3 different norths’
• Becoming best friends with your compass and learning how to use it
• Route planning and finding
• Taking bearings
• How to figure out where you are
• Estimating time and distance

All of this is backed up with practical exercises and workshops in the field. We’ll also briefly touch on:

• Lat Long (Latitude Longitude)
• Smartphone apps and GPS for navigation and hiking

Day Three – putting it all into practice! Mon 15 July 2024

Monday is all about taking your newfound skills and confidence and heading out bushwalking! We will be travelling as a group and taking turns to be on ‘the pointy end’ that is, being the leader and making the navigation decisions! Lots of fun with loads of support to help you along the way.☺

Who is this course for?

Caro will start at the very beginning and not assume any prior knowledge, so don’t feel that you’ll be ‘the dumb one’, ‘or holding everyone up’.

This navigation course is all about the fundamentals and giving you all the tools and theory you need to go out and practice, practice, practice so that you can become more confident in the bush.

So if you’ve never done any map and compass navigation before, or have done some and forgotten it, this course is for you and applicable for:

• Bushwalking and hiking
• Trail-running
• Canyoning
• Rock Climbing
• Adventure Racing
• Rogaining and orienteering
• Ecological surveys

Cost & inclusions – Intro to Navigation Level 1

The three days of training costs $975 pp (A deposit of $350 pp is required on booking. The balance is due 4 weeks out from the course)

The course price includes:

• 3 days of teaching and instruction by the dynamic Caro Ryan of Lots of Fresh Air fame!
• Support and assistance from local bush walking guide Teresa Cause of Horizon Guides based in Boonah.
• Tea/coffee during the theory (indoor) component of the course. Morning tea Day 1 & 2.
• Emergency equipment including group first aid kit and PLB.

Course materials:

• “How to Navigate” by Caro Ryan
• Full topographic map of location
• Protective sleeve for maps
• Silva Ranger Compass
• Romer
• Print copies of class exercises
• ....plus a few surprise extras on the way… think of them as ‘navigation fries with that’.

The tour cost does not include airfares or other associated travel expenses, accommodation, meals, transport, costs of joining the course after it has commenced or leaving it before the end, travel insurance, personal expenses

General notes:

Ivory’s Rock Camping and Events facility: The entire bushland property is extensive and at times 5000 people can be accommodated across all the facilities! Access is through a locked gate only. We will be based in a quiet corner of the property at Jacaranda. The practical components of the course are in bushland adjacent to Jacaranda.

Jacaranda Conference Room is the venue at Ivory’s Rock where we will be based for the course. It is a large comfortable space with verandas on three sides. There is a kitchen area with fridge and sink for use by participants and loos.

Accommodation is not included for this course. The camping facilities at Ivory’s Rock are excellent and may booked directly. The best option for staying onsite is the Sandy Creek Campground (private bathroom for each booking, group camp kitchen with fridge, BBQ, wash up area) Bunkhouse style accommodation can also be reserved. https://www.ivorysrock.org.au/ Ph 07 3077 9668

The town of Boonah has a good selection of accommodation options including two motels as well as great selection of cafes and pubs for meals. The IGA supermarket is well-provisioned and open 7 days. The area has a range of BNBs in rural and village locations. It’s approximately a 25minute drive to Ivory’s Rock from town. Ipswich is about the same distance away to the north with all the usual options and facilities of a small city.

Packing List A detailed packing list will be provided prior with final details for the program.

Meals are not provided (apart from morning teas). You will need to bring packed lunches and snacks each day.

Mobile Phone Coverage is limited on site. WIFI will be available at Jacaranda and at the Green and Yellow campgrounds for campers.

2024 walks and events program

Hello wonderful Horizon Guides bushwalkers!

For those new to Horizon Guides – welcome ? It will be great to meet you on a walk soon. Horizon Guides has been sharing the Scenic Rim with walkers since 2008 – we love our back yard! Our walks are all about enjoying being outside – observing the worlds about us, learning about the life we encounter, enjoying the views, breathing deeply and carrying some of that peace back home. They are also about learning how to bushwalk safely and managing ourselves in different conditions with small groups of like-minded souls. By hiking regularly, over time, you’ll develop a great repertoire of skills and grow in confidence for future adventures. The Scenic Rim offers a tremendous variety of bushwalking challenges and is an excellent place to truly become a ‘bushwalker’!

As a thank you to a lucky guest on this program we are giving away a Helinox Chair ZERO (RRP $199.95) to one lucky person – wow! At only 500gms, this is an accessory you will quickly find is your best friend – and it will stay in your pack and go with you everywhere ?

This offer is simple and works as follows:

- Make a reservation and pay for two of the walks in advance.

- The first 25 people to do this will be in the draw to win the chair! You can either drop in to Far Outdoors in Boonah to collect, be united with it on your first bushwalk or we will post it to you.

This program is for our walks from January to June 2024. We’ll be publishing walks and events for the second half of 2024 in coming weeks. There will also be extended trips and treks offered separately – including our Tassie Tracks: Southern Sojourn in November.

There are a few walks that don’t have details yet as they are new walks and require some reconnaissance. Feel free to book them in because they will be good ones! So…read on for our regular day hikes, treks and other adventures - the first one is a ripper – right in our back yard – and not far off!

Contact us if you have any queries about particular walks or concerns about your ability to participate.

To reserve your walks: Send us an This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with your preferred walks and attach your completed reservation form. You can download the PDF reservation / medical consent form and T&Cs from the links below. Don’t take too long to decide as the walks generally book out very quickly (some within a few days!). Once we have received your reservation request we will respond to confirm your booking.

WALK 1: Paddy’s Falls Explore (Mt Barney NP) Approx 8km 5 – 6 hrs. GRADE: Moderate +

Sunday 21 January Cost: $85 pp POSTPONED DUE FLOODING - NEW DATE 14 April

This off-track bushwalk southwest of Mt Maroon to Paddy’s Falls is an adventurous outing to a swimming spot. We have options for a loop walk that takes in nearby ridges and features. There are interesting cliff areas and magnificent views that you won’t see on a regular excursion into this area. NB We cross Mt Barney Creek near the trail-head at the start and finish of the walk. Note: The trip will suit bush walkers with some experience keen for a real ‘off-track’ adventure. You must be confident walking on natural terrain (no track) and rock hopping along a creek bed.

WALK 2: Cascades Circuit (Main Range NP – Goomburra) Approx. 6.5km return 5 – 6 hrs. GRADE: Moderate

AUSTRALIA DAY Friday 26 January Cost: $95 pp

This is a very lovely walk that commences at the Manna Gum camping area and follows the course of Dalrymple Creek up to its headwaters. There is plenty of opportunity to enjoy the cascades and pools along the ascent track. The circuit is completed via old logging trails that follow the ridge before dropping steeply back down to the trailhead. And there will be a full moon for the drive home… (It’s Australia Day so bring some great Aussie food favourites)

WALK 3: Warrie Circuit (Springbrook NP) Approx. 17km 6+ hrs. Elevation +/- Approx. 300m GRADE: Moderate

Sunday 4 February Cost: $95 pp

A spectacular day out – ‘warrie’ means ‘rushing waters’ to the Yugambeh people. It’s well named, as there are many waterfalls to enjoy on this track as it winds through ancient forests, under waterfall spray, along escarpments and by cooling creeks in the upper catchment of Little Nerang Creek.

WALK 4: Caves Track – 3km and Gwongoorool Pool – 5.8km return Elev. +/- 250m (Lamington NP – Binna Burra) 6 – 7 hrs GRADE: Moderate (there are many stairs!!)

WEDNESDAY 14 February Cost: $95 pp

What a lovely treat to go for a beautiful bushwalk on Valentine’s Day! Today is a link up of two of the Lamington’s classic short walks. Beginning near the Binna Burra Teahouse the graded track is an intriguing journey through different forest zones thriving on steep western slopes above the Coomera River valley. As the track loses altitude eons of volcanic geology are revealed culminating in spectacular caves carved out of the escarpment. The track takes us up to the Visitor Centre then onto the Gwongoorool Pool track. This return track culminates in a gorgeous pool on the Coomera River.

WALK 5: Mt Matthieson Trail Circuit (Main Range NP) FULL Moon – afternoon/evening walk 8km Approx. 5 – 6 hrs. GRADE: Easy – moderate.

SATURDAY 24 February Cost: $85 pp

There is nothing quite as magical as being in the bush as day gives way to the night – especially on a full moon! Mt Matthieson is a favourite circuit walk and one of the most diverse and historically interesting circuits on the Range. Starting at the Spicer’s Gap picnic area near the pioneer grave site the track climbs gradually through rainforest before coming onto a ridgeline of open eucalypt forest. From Mt Matthieson (752m) the track follows a sharp ridge with bird’s eye views of the Great Divide. Small volcanic cliffs add variety with ferns and orchids sheltering in their crevices. Turning southwest the track meanders through rainforest before opening out onto old logging tracks and joining the historic basalt-cobbled pioneer road. This takes us back to the start via the Governors Chair lookout where we will have dinner and watch the moonrise. From here it’s about a 30-minute walk to the vehicles.

WALK 6: Cronan Creek Falls (Mt Barney NP) 12km return 6+ hrs GRADE: Easy +

Sunday 3 March Cost: $85 pp

From Yellow Pinch Trailhead the well-graded footpad leads up a wooded spur to the fire trail where a short steep track ends at Yellow Pinch Lookout – one of the best views of Mt Barney! Back on the fire trail it’s a scenic walk to the falls. There are about nine creek crossings and only two of these have culverts so depending on water levels you’ll be getting your feet wet! Cronan Falls were once a ‘secret’ spot – now it’s much easier to find – and the forest is grateful that visitors are not longer ‘bush bashing’ to find it … After enjoying a dip in this sweet pool we retrace our steps to the trailhead.

WALK 7: Cleared Ridge – Mt Montserrat Lookout (1012m) – Upper Portals – Yamarah Ck. (Mt Barney NP) Approx 11km 7-8 hrs Elevation +/- 600m GRADE: Moderate + 


Sunday 24 March Cost: $95 pp

This excellent circuit begins on Cleared Ridge overlooking the Burnett Valley. From Yamahra Creek we gain the west spur of Montserrat, continuing until the rocky summit is reached. The views of Mt Barney are superb. Descent is via a steep spur that brings us to the junction of Yamahra Creek and Mt Barney Creek. After lunch at the Upper Portals we take the fire trail back along the valley floor, criss-crossing Yamarah Creek as Montserrat has a remote feel and with most of the walking on single trails, you’ll feel like you’ve been on a real ‘bushwalk”.

WALK 8: A new ‘easy’ level hike in a new location near Killarney.

Easter Monday 1 April Cost: $95 pp

UPDATE: too overgrown at this stage.

WALK 9: Albert River Circuit (Lamington NP, Green Mountains Section) 21.8km 7 – 8hrs GRADE: Moderate.

NEW DATE Sunday 28 April Cost: $95 pp

“We start out along the famous Border Track and at the 5km mark begin to descend through forests of Antarctic beech to a lush rainforest gully featuring Echo Falls. This is the perfect spot to take a break by the sweet mountain water. It’s uphill from here, following a branch of the Albert River upstream to Echo Point lookout. Enjoy panoramic views from Mount Wupawn to Mount Durigan on the McPherson Range and south to the Tweed Range. These peaks are all part of the erosion caldera that surrounds Mount Warning, once a central volcanic plug. Traditional Owners of the Bundjalang language group call this mighty plug 'Wollumbin' (cloud-catcher). Continue east along the Queensland–New South Wales border to Cominan lookout and then turn north-west to connect back up with the Border Track. In September when the beech orchids Dendrobium falcorostrum are flowering, this circuit takes on a particular charm, with the delicate orchids contrasting with the massive trunks to which they cling.” Source: adapted from QPWS website.

WALK 10: Boonah Border Gate to Kinnanes Falls (Main Range NP) Approx 7.5km 5 - 6 hrs. OFF TRACK. Through-walk (car shuffle required). GRADE: Moderate - Challenging

Sunday 21 April Cost: $95 pp

Today’s bush walk begins with some very scenic driving to position cars at the end of the walk on the Head Road then driving up Carney’s Creek Road to the Rabbit Fence where we will begin the walk.

The first few kms provides easy going (up and over a couple of knolls) along the Fence with tall forests all around. The point where we begin the descent to Kinnanes has panoramic views across the Fassifern – a good spot to stop for a snack. From here it’s ‘off-track’ all the way and great attention to what’s underfoot will be needed! The grass is long and rocks are plenty… fortunately, the views are splendid and we will pause often enough to enjoy them. Wilson’s Creek is reached via a beautiful grass-tree covered spur and it’s from here that the waters spill over multi-tiered Kinnanes Falls – one of the most beautiful sights in the Main Range. Then it’s a VERY steep descent to the Head Road and our cars.

We can make this a round-trip scenic trip by driving up the Head Road and back to the Border Gate via White Swamp.

WALK 11: Mt Gipps via the Rabbit Board Fence from Richmond Gap. 9km return Elevation gain/loss 425m around 5hrs. GRADE: Moderate +

ANZAC DAY Thursday 25 April Cost: $85 pp

This is a straightforward walk though it’s got some sharp hills so we will take our time. Beginning at Richmond Gap where the Lion’s Road crosses to NSW we walk east on the Qld side of the Border beside the historic Darling Downs-Moreton Rabbit Board Fence. Traces of history are a feature of the walk though it’s the vistas that will most often capture your attention! Tall trees dwarf the walker and there are splendid views north across Christmas Creek and to Lamington NP.

WALK 12: The Steamers (Main Range NP) 8 + hrs GRADE: Challenging

LABOUR DAY PUBLIC HOLIDAY Monday 6 May Cost: $95 pp

A two-hour drive (last bit requires 4WD) brings us to the start of this walk however it’s worth the journey to visit one of the most dramatic geologic features in SE Queensland! The Steamers rise as steep cliff sections atop a ridge to the west of the Main Range NW of Mt Superbus. They are named the Prow, Funnel, Mast and Stern for their resemblance to a massive ship. The view from the western end of the Stern is one of the best in the region. There is not really any track so be prepared for steep climbs and rough ground with a section of steep scree as we head up on to the ridge and traverse the various features of the Steamers.

** There is an option to return to the start point by a different route to make this a circuit hike.

NB The final section to the view point off the end of the Stern involves an exposed and very narrow short section of ridge. Extreme care is required and this part is not recommended for those nervous of heights. The walk is still very rewarding without this final scramble.

ART@WORENDO – LOST WORLD VALLEY – Drawing and painting (with some walking) retreat –

Friday 10 – Sunday 12 May Cost: $1,375 pp  ($500 deposit required) Details are all here: Art @ Worendo

WALK 13: Mt May – Drynan’s Hut Traverse (Mt Barney NP) Approx. 12km / 7+ hrs Elevation +/- 500m. GRADE: Moderate-Challenging (Car shuffle required)

Sunday 19 May Cost: $95 pp

An off-track bushwalk that begins at Waterfall Creek Campground and first ascends the main track to the Mt May ridge. From here we stay atop the ridge of open woodland with an understory of Kangaroo Grass allowing panoramic views of nearby peaks. Our route links up to the country above Paddy’s Creek and a steep spur takes us to its headwaters. At this point we pick up the fire trail for an easier jaunt down the valley, passing the dramatic Paddy’s Waterfall on the way. At the end we cross Mt Barney Creek near Drynan’s Hut and the end of the track.

Walk 14: Ships Stern Circuit (Lamington NP – Binna Burra) Approx. 19km 7-8 hrs. GRADE: Moderate +

Sunday 26 May Cost: $95 pp

This is one of the classic hikes on the plateau and deservedly so. The well-graded track drops down to the rainforested headwaters of Nixon Creek before gradually ascending to the Ships Stern and culminating at Kooloobano Point. From here the track traverses the eastern escarpment before swinging SW back into rainforest and then joining the Border Track north for the return to Binna Burra. The ever-changing forest types and cliff top sections affording extensive views of the Numinbah Valley make this an engaging outing. There are caves along the way and several interesting side-tracks including to Charraboomba Rock and Nagarigoon Falls.

WALK 15: Campbell’s Folly (Private Property) Approx 5 hrs walking + lunch time. GRADE: Challenging – rough off-track. Cliff edges in places.

Sunday 16 June Cost: $95 pp ($10 pp donated to the property owners)

Some places are just magic and ‘The Rock’ property is one of them. Towering above the family home are tremendous cave-dotted cliffs, home to peregrine falcons, rock wallabies and many unique plant species. Geologically it’s part of the Mt Gillies Rhyolite unit, outliers to Mt Barney.

The approach is through rolling green paddocks with awe-inspiring views of Mt Lindesay from every angle. Making our way up the wooded western slope of the peak we eventually reach the top – and the wonderful vista. We return by the same route.

NB Please remember the program is SUBJECT TO CHANGE FOR A VARIETY OF REASONS, including adverse weather forecasts, at the discretion of our guides.

ABOUT OUR WALKS Our day-long eco-interpreted bushwalks are open to anyone with an urge to get out and experience the magnificent Scenic Rim region – and beyond. Groups are small and walks are spaced out to allow time for recovery (and training) for the next walk. You can do as many or few walks as you wish but bear in mind that it’s a good idea to keep up regular walking in between to maintain fitness for the next hike. The hikes offer a range of challenges so read the notes carefully before reserving your place.

These are group hikes and natural history interpretation is an integral part of the guided experience. You are expected to stay with the group. These are NOT fast-paced races to a destination!    No drones please. 

Our aim is to get out and explore the many facets of our amazing region, note the changes and develop a deeper understanding of the natural richness on our doorstep and, of course, become walking fit with a wonderful group of like-minded bushwalkers.

The nature of the Scenic Rim terrain means that there are few ‘easy’ walks on graded trails. The majority of routes feature uneven ground and ascents and descents, often with rocky sections. The gradients are sometimes very steep. We always allow plenty of time to complete walks so that there is not the necessity to speed through walks or to feel you are not keeping up.

PLEASE NOTE: Participants transport themselves to the start of the walk after meeting at the pre-arranged rendezvous point for the day. (Usually an optional car pool is arranged on the day.) Details of the meeting place and times are emailed one week prior to the walk, along with the names of fellow walkers and a list of necessary items to bring.

Come walking with Horizon Guides this season! 
See you all very soon - yours in bushwalking.

Yours Guides,

Teresa and Sally