Trip Planner:   South Pacific  /  Australia  /  Queensland  /  Sunshine Coast  /  Maleny  /  Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve

Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, Maleny

4.7
#1 of 6 in Trails in Sunshine Coast
Hiking Trail · Wildlife Area
Create an itinerary including Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve
Explore 55 hectares (136 acres) of subtropical rainforest at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve. Learn about the history of the rainforest on a walk with a volunteer guide, marvel at towering Australian red cedars, and spot wildlife such as kangaroos, wallabies, frogs, and crayfish. Keep your eyes peeled and camera ready for the various colorful bird species that call the reserve home. You might want to visit the Mary Cairncross Cafe before touring the reserve. It opens at 8:30 am for breakfast, and the purple hue of the Glasshouse Mountains and mist surrounding them makes for a prime photo opportunity. The view is remarkable, though, at any time of the day. Using our online itinerary creator, Maleny attractions like Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve can form part of a personalized travel itinerary.
Improve this listing »
Create a full itinerary - for free!

Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve reviews

TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
932 reviews
Google
4.7
TripAdvisor
  • Beautiful walk through the rainforest. We saw a snake, echidna, skinks, birds and pademelons. Mostly accessible track in my electric wheelchair which was really lovely. 
    Beautiful walk through the rainforest. We saw a snake, echidna, skinks, birds and pademelons. Mostly accessible track in my electric wheelchair which was really lovely.  more »
  • The reserve is well worth visiting. We had our morning tea at the very attractive picnic area, which also included a children's playground. The 1.7 klm walk was a very pleasant meander through the.....  more
    The reserve is well worth visiting. We had our morning tea at the very attractive picnic area, which also included a children's playground. The 1.7 klm walk was a very pleasant meander through the.....  more »
  • Visited on Wednesday 14th December. What a great place to take in the amazing views of the Glass House Mountains. There is plenty of parking, a cafe and viewing deck. There is also an information... 
    Visited on Wednesday 14th December. What a great place to take in the amazing views of the Glass House Mountains. There is plenty of parking, a cafe and viewing deck. There is also an information...  more »
Google
  • This is a truly special place. We spent an afternoon/early evening here and loved the education centre and our walk was truly magical with the ancient vines and birdsong of so many birds. We stayed on later when things were quiet and saw many wallabies. The walk was flat and easy, our only disappointment was that one of the loops was closed for improvements so we weren't able to explore it all. One of the most beautiful places we've ever visited, keep up the good work protecting this lovely place.
  • Loved the discovery centre. Looking forward to when the new pathway is opened up. Great for small and big kids, young and old. Had a great time looking around. Got a leech attached to me leg, so wear a tea tree spray or similar to prevent. Had a lovely coffee in the cafe. Nice in warm sunny weather or cold and drizzly. Lots of wildlife and nature to see.
  • Great location. Gold coin donation to enter. Helpful and well informed Staff who seemed to be all volunteers. Neat and tidy facilities including a coffee shop. Amazing collection of natural fungi that I have not seen elsewhere. Relaxing and educational destination for all ages.
  • Came here on a school trip. The volunteers were absolutely amazing, the kids loved the play centre, and there was a vast array of wildlife all around within the forest area. Bus parking seemed short, but overall an excellent experience. 10/10 would recommend.
  • One of the best rainforests I’ve ever been in. Absolutely packed with beautiful wildlife, native plants, fungi- you name it! An incredibly special experience. We loved the education centre and the walls were well maintained! The best place and a must do if in the area.

Plan your trip to Maleny

  • Get a personalized trip
    A full day by day itinerary based on your preferences
  • Customize it
    Refine your trip. We'll find the
    best routes and schedules
  • Book it
    Choose from the best hotels and activities. Up to 50% off
  • Manage it
    Everything in one place. Everyone on the same page.