Hike Queensland's Scenic Rim Trail

Start your adventure in Brisbane. Take the time to settle into your hotel. Make sure you have all the essential items packed for your walk, get some dinner at one of Brisbane’s restaurants and get an early night. Your trip starts early tomorrow.

Meals: –

Meet your guides and fellow hikers at your hotel before heading to Thornton in Main Range National Park. After a brief hike introduction, you’ll follow the Scenic Rim Trail into the Mistake Mountain Range, through dry sclerophyll forest and sweeping valley vistas. The trail climbs steadily, with some rock scrambling, reaching around 1000 metres above sea level. Our pace suits the group and conditions, aiming to arrive by mid-afternoon. Relax in the charming Mount Mistake Farmhouse, a working farmhouse with thoughtful touches and mountain views. In the evening, gather for a daily briefing and a shared welcome dinner.

Meals: L/D

Begin the day with sunrise over Mt Mistake, stepping out to the escarpment as the landscape slowly comes to life. After breakfast, follow the Scenic Rim Trail along an old logging route, climbing gradually before entering the cool shade of Gondwana rainforest. The walking is varied but manageable, with a mix of gentle gradients and flatter sections. As the day unfolds, the trail leads deeper into the forest and on to your eco-camp. Settle into your cabin amoung the gum trees, unwind, and later come together for dinner, with mountain views and a quiet sense of place.

Meals: B/L/D

Wake to the sounds of the forest and take a moment to stretch or simply sit with a morning coffee. After breakfast, the trail begins gently before giving way to more rugged rainforest terrain. The path winds downhill through roots, rocks, and creeks, asking you to slow your pace and watch your footing. At Dalrymple Creek, stop for a well-earned rest in a quiet, shaded setting. By late afternoon, reach your eco-camp among towering blue gums. Spend time unwinding before gathering for a final dinner, sharing stories from the trail.

Meals: B/L/D

Rise early and listen as the forest comes to life around you. After breakfast, begin your final walk, climbing gently before heading into rich rainforest. The track demands care in places, with uneven ground and natural obstacles slowing the pace. Towering trees line the way, some with striking buttress roots, before the trail opens out at Bare Rock with far-reaching views. As you near the end, you’ll notice more walkers, a contrast to the quiet of recent days. A private transfer returns you to Brisbane, where the trip finishes in the early evening.

Meals: B/L

• Four days of guided walking along the Scenic Rim Trail, led by two experienced local guides
• 4 nights eco-conscious accommodations 
• Daily on-trail snacks, including trail mix, muesli bars, and fresh fruit
• Use of hiking poles to support your walk
• Linen provided at each camp, including pillow, pillowcase, and sheet
• Carbon offset for your trip and a native tree planted on your behalf

• Flights and transfers – travel to and from Brisbane is not included.
• Optional porterage service – carrying your luggage between camps is available at an extra cost.
• Beverages – soft drinks, beer, and wine are available to purchase, but not included.
• Travel insurance – not included but mandatory for this trip.

This walk suits travellers with a good level of fitness who are comfortable walking 10-18km a day on uneven terrain. Trails include sustained climbs, descents, rocky sections, and creek crossings. You do not need technical experience, but you should feel confident on your feet and prepared for a physical challenge.

The trail ranges from moderate to challenging. Expect uneven surfaces, exposed roots, loose rocks and some rock scrambling. Weather can affect conditions, with mud and slippery sections after rain. We walk at a steady, manageable pace with regular breaks. More information about our Trip Grading can be found here.

You will stay in eco-conscious camps and a restored farmhouse. Rooms are twin-share, with shared facilities. These are remote, off-grid properties, designed to be comfortable but simple, allowing you to stay close to the landscape.

Yes, in a considered, low-impact way. You will have a proper bed with linen provided, hot showers, and welcoming communal spaces. There is no conventional heating or cooling, though fireplaces, fans, and thoughtful design help manage seasonal conditions.

Meals are simple, nourishing, and designed to support your time on the trail. Expect continental breakfasts, packed lunches, and shared dinners in the evening. Dietary requirements can be catered for with prior notice.

You will need to carry your own equipment including clothing, sleeping bag, towel, snacks, water and personal items in a suitable backpack. Linen will be provided at each camp. We estimate the pack you will carry will weigh approx. 8kg. Portage is available (subject to availability) for up to 12kg of luggage.

Phone reception is limited across the region. Wi-Fi is available in the main lodge areas at each camp, though it can be patchy. Many travellers enjoy this as a chance to switch off and be present.

Bring comfortable walking shoes or boots, layered clothing, a waterproof jacket, sun protection, and a refillable water bottle. In cooler months, warm layers and thermals are important, as temperatures can drop in the mountains.

The Scenic Rim can be walked year-round, though conditions vary. Summers can be warm and humid, while winters bring cooler mornings and evenings. Spring and autumn often offer the most balanced conditions.

You will be led by experienced local guides who know the region well. They manage the logistics, support your safety, and share insights into the landscape, history, and ecology along the way.

While you are never far from support, the trail feels genuinely remote. While hiking, bush toileting will be required. Over several days, you will walk through quiet, less-visited areas, with limited outside contact and a strong sense of immersion in nature. 

Weather conditions can vary and may affect the walking experience. Your guides will adjust plans if needed to ensure safety. Being prepared with appropriate clothing helps you stay comfortable in changing conditions.