Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve Tours
2 Reviews

There’s more to Queensland’s Sunshine Coast than suntans, surfboards, and shoreline, although given the wealth of white sand beaches and places to bake in the sun, it’s easy to see why the forested interior can sometimes be overlooked. At the Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, travelers are reminded how Queensland’s interior has an endemic beauty of its own. These hills that rise behind the Glass House Mountains were once covered in rainforest—parts of which are still visible on the reserve’s 135 acres. Stroll along miles of wooden boardwalk past red cedar and ginger, and listen for the mating call of green catbirds and they flit high in the treetops. While silently strolling the shaded trails, keep an eye out for red-legged padmelon as they scurry and forage through the underbrush. These small wallabies have lost much of their habitat due to surrounding deforestation, although still survive on this small refuge that’s been called an “ecological island.” There are playgrounds and barbecues for family outings as well as an education center, or simply sit at the small café to enjoy a tea in the forest.
Practical Info
The Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve is located one hour from Brisbane, one hour from Noosa, and 30 minutes from the Sunshine Coast. The education center is open from 9am-5pm from September-May, 9am-4pm from June-August, and the rainforest trails are open for hiking during regular daylight hours. While there is no official admission to the reserve, a gold coin donation is graciously accepted.
Address: 148 Mountain View Road, Maleny QLD 4552, Australia
2 Tours and Activities to Experience Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve
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Full-Day Guided Hinterland Adventure Tour in Queensland
Climb aboard and discover the best parts of the Sunshine Coast. Don't follow the leader, be the leader! Our tours put the power in your hands. We provide you with all of the important information en route to your beautiful destinations. Once off the bus, you're free to discover each location, exactly the way that you want to. Either buddy up with your newly made friends or go it alone and find all of the hidden gems. We'll be waiting for you at the pick - up location to get you to your next adventure.
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Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Gear/equipment sanitized between use

Sunshine Coast Hinterland Rainforest, Views and Montville Day Tour Inc. Lunch
Escape the coast and discover the picturesque villages and natural wonders of the Sunshine Coast Hinterlands on this full-day tour. Trek through the rainforest and admire views of the Glass House Mountains in the Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, enjoy free time to explore the hinterland town of Montville, and tuck into a gourmet lunch at a lakeside restaurant. Along the way, stop at scenic lookout points, visit a traditional coffee house, and have fun exploring the Ginger Factory.
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$125.62
From
$125.62
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized
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