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Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, Maleny

4.8
#2 of 48 in Wildlife in Sunshine Coast
Must see · Hiking Trail · Wildlife Area
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.
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Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve reviews

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TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
896 reviews
Google
4.7
TripAdvisor
  • By Fiona C
    We have been visiting the Reserve for 20 years and still love going as everytime you get to experience something new- a new sighting of a paddymelon or a bird and the diversity of flora too. An easy.....  more »
  • By Renee C
    Beautiful rainforest walk great for younger kids as not too long and the interactive info centre was really great for everyone in the family to learn about the area and helpful staff. Lots of people....  more »
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Google
  • By Robert Deslauriers
    Absolute gem of an experience. Interactive, informative, fun, beautiful & well worth a couple of hours plus lunch at the cafe. A little piece of tropical rain forest with easy walking tracks & the chance to see wildlife in its natural habitat. Highly recommended with just a gold coin donation to enter & friendly, informative staff to help you make the most of your visit. The view of the Glasshouse mountains from the observation deck is just stunning. Don't miss it!
  • By Jenny Watson
    Awesome new visitor centre with cafe overlooking the Glass House Mountains. Visitors centre has rotating exhibits on loan from the Queensland Muesem. They are interactive and the kids love them. Some walks have been sealed and are wheelchair, wheelie walker, and pram accessible. There is a playground, a big grassy lawn to play sports on, and BBQ area w gas barbies. A great spot to take visitors and/or have a family day out. Breathtaking views make this a must visit place when on the Sunny Coast.
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