Backyard Tourist: The southeast’s best hidden waterfalls and secret waterfalls at Mt Barney

LOVE waterfalls but think you’ve seen all we have to offer? Think again. This week we look at where you can find all the region’s best hidden waterfalls and watering holes.

Cronan Creek Falls at Mount Barney National Park. Picture @kenwarephotos

Cronan Creek Cascades Walk

They don’t call it the Scenic Rim for nothing.

Chock full of fabulous pastoral scenes, it’s also home to some of our best hidden waterfalls and secret waterholes.

Cronan Creek Falls at Mount Barney National Park. Picture @kenwarephotos

One of the best — and most easily accessible — is Cronan Creek Cascades, deep in the heart of Mt Barney National Park.

The falls are located near the end of the Cronan Creek Track, which starts at the Yellow Pinch Reserve car park. A lovely 13km return hike that takes you from open bushland to rainforest, it’s a long walk but not difficult.

There is one steep section near the beginning and numerous creek crossings, some of which will require that you get your feet wet — so bring some spare socks.

Cronan Creek Falls is a popular tourist spot Picture @kenwarephotos

Start by heading up the hill towards South Ridge, turning left through the swing gate. When you reach the junction with a sign marking the start of South Ridge, turn left and walk another 3.5km along the fire trail.

Near the top of a shady uphill section, listen for the sound of the waterfall to your left. If you’re lucky you’ll spot a little rock cairn indicating where to turn off. You’ll need to descend down into the creek (off track) for about 100m until you find it.

Mt Barney. Photo Chantay Logan.

If you’re at the end of the fire trail then you’ve gone too far by a few hundred metres — turn around, listen closely and then engage in that little bit of bush bashing.

You’ll know you’ve arrived when you see one of the most perfect waterfall swimming holes.

This deep (and cold) pool has a flat underwater rock shelf at both ends, one actually under the waterfall — allowing you to sit or stand directly under the cascading water.

The cliffs and overhanging trees provide shade on one side and plenty of sunny spots on the other to dry out after your swim.

Eat and drink: You can’t go past the fantastic coffee and cake at the family-owned Shed Cafe, nestled in the foothills of Mount Barney, five minutes from the town of Rathdowney. Open weekends from 8am to 4pm, you can also get your fix of country crafts — from soaps to jewellery to bags.

You can get plenty of tasty food.

The cafe is part of Rathlogan Grove, which contains 1200 fully mature olive trees. From olives to olive oils, balsamic vinegar and local honey, you can have a free taste-test of the grove’s produce at The Shed Cafe every weekend. All of this plus breathtaking views of the mountains as well.

Discover: Mount Barney is home to more than 34 mammal, 182 bird, 40 reptile and 71 frog species as well as countless insects and other invertebrates.

Kangaroo. Photo: Chantay Logan

Six wildlife species, including the eastern bristlebird and the Coxen’s fig-parrot, are listed as endangered, while as many as 13 species of animals are regarded as near threatened. So tread lightly and have your camera ready. Some of the most common critters to see include wallabies, lace monitors and kangaroos. Could this bush bash be anymore true blue Aussie?

While you’re there … do: Mount Barney is just under two hours drive from the Gold Coast, which means you can make it a big day trip or stay overnight. For the former, try to get on the road before the sun (harder now we’re heading into summer) and you’ll be greeted by the mountains of the Scenic Rim bathed in dawn’s pink light.

Cronan Creek Falls @andrew.meadows7

If you’re keen to do an overnighter, you can’t get more convenient than Mount Barney Lodge. From campsites to a Queenslander homestead, you’ll feel right at home. Plus staff can give you extra tips on finding your way on those secret walks.