On a sunny morning we packed a picnic and headed north along the Bruce Highway to Mapleton. In town we took Obi Obi Road to reach Mapleton Falls.

This national park protects riparian rainforest as well as open eucalypt forest that once covered this area. The falls is the result of the Pencil Creek plunging some 120m into the valley. Unfortunately it was very dry when we visited so there wasn’t even a trace of a waterfall.

The park is small and for day use only. It shelters a magnitude of bird species such as the peregrine falcon, eastern whip bird and wompoo fruit-dove. Species we took photos of include the pacific baza, spangled drongo and white breasted wood swallow.

The main activity is walking and there are a few tracks to choose from. About 50m from the car park you’ll find Mapleton Falls Lookout. This is wheelchair accessible. It provides panoramic views across the Obi Obi Valley and the waterfall. During the months of August and September you should keep an eye out for peregrine falcons as they roost on the cliffs near the falls.

The shortest walking track is the Wompoo ciruit. It is 1.3km long and winds through rain- and eucalypt forest. Via this circuit you’ll reach Peregrine Lookout which provides a beautiful view of the Obi Obi Valley.

The slightly more energetic hiker can do the 2.1km one way walk to Delicia Road. At the upper end of the Wompoo circuit the Great Walk track leads west out of the park onto Daymar Road. Follow Daymar Road to Delicia Road Reserve. The experienced hiker can walk the 5.1km (one way) from Mapleton Falls to Flaxton walkers’ camp.

Remember to bring insect repellent, your own drinking water and rubbish bags as no bins are provided. There are a large grass area with picnic benches and toilets. No barbeques.  More photos.

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