TA K E A H I K E I N T H E H I N T E R L A N D with Andrea Taylor
Gheerulla Falls Mapleton National Park GHEERULLA Falls are located in the beautiful Mapleton National Park. There are a few ways to get to the falls but my favourite was starting at the end of Sam Kelly Road off Kenilworth Rd. Allow yourself six hours for this 14kms return trip. I advise you to keep an eye on the weather, as if there is too much rain it will be flooded. There are toilets located at the Gheerulla Camp Ground 1.2km from the start. I started my day early at 6am and parked the car at the entrance to the National Park. As you walk in there is a Trail Bike map, go right following The Great Walk sign crossing over the first of four creek crossings. From there follow the trail about 1km, you will reach a sign pointing you in the direction of the falls. It is absolutely beautiful walking along the creek listening as the stream burbles over the rocks, and you hear more birds than you see. This time of year with the rain the park is alive with mossy rocks, trees and the fungi is abundant. Around every corner you are overwhelmed with beauty and it really feels like you have found paradise and secret places. I saw three people the day I went so the serenity is heaven. The creeks were up, but I managed to keep my feet dry on the way there but didn’t bother on my return trip. I also didn’t have any issues with leeches but I know they are there. The Gheerulla Falls were pumping as we had just had some good rain! Nothing like the sound and power of the water thundering over the crest falling into the plunge pool below. Take your time to really take them in. Feel the mist from the falls while you sit and refresh with your snacks, water or cup of tea. You can either return the same way or make your way to the Day Use area at Mapleton. You would need someone to drop you off and pick you up. I also walked into multiple spider webs and ate one bug Hahahaha! You can also enter from Mapleton at the Mapleton Day use Area and it’s
approximately 15km return. This walk is through the forest and parts are shared trails so you may come across horses and bikes. On part of this trail you are on The Sunshine Coast Great Walk. You can also go in from Mapleton on Delicia Rd at Linda Garrett circuit which is also a part of the Great Walk. Ubajee walker’s camp is 5.1km where there is a viewing platform looking over the stunning valley and Gheerulla falls 7.3km(14.6km return) If you go a little further up Delicia Rd on the right you will see another smaller entrance. This is only about 2km to the falls although it is quite steep. The Mapleton Day use area has picnic tables and toilets and is well maintained.
I have already started to explore the other trails in Mapleton National Park and will share them with you soon. Remember to take plenty of water on this trail, sunscreen, hat and first aid kit. I would recommend that a good level of fitness is needed and plan your trip. Maps are available on Great Walk Sunshine Coast Hinterland. I think children over 10 would be fine to take along. But remember to be patient when taking your children and add a little more time to your trip. Also if you are keen you could throw an overnight camp in at Ubajee walker’s camp or Gheerulla camping area.
The Park is alive!
Happy Hiking
March 2022 Your Local Lifestyle | Page 35
