10 things to do within the Scenic Rim for free or almost free

When it comes to chasing waterfalls, you’re absolutely spoilt for choice in the Scenic Rim, and if your trickiest decision is which one to visit, you’re in for a ripper day, no matter the choice. Beat the heat and take to the Morans Falls track in Lamington National Park for a sunrise. It’s ideal to be armed with supplies for this 1.5hr, grade 4 hike, but the view from the 80m waterfall is well worth the climb.

For something a little less strenuous, yet equally majestic, Curtis Falls in Tamborine National Park is where you’ll want to head. Take the 30min family-friendly stroll through the rainforest while keeping an eye out for turtles, fish and platypus in the rock pools while you walk. Pack a picnic rug or a camp chair and spend the afternoon relaxing by the falls or visit in the evening for your best chance at spotting glow worms.

If you’re looking to camp out a little further off the beaten path, Ngumbi Base Camp is exactly that. Only accessible by foot or water, it’s the perfect spot for those seeking a quieter adventure with a side of solitude. The campsite is a two-hour hike from the car park, so you’ll need to pack adequately. Onsite there are toilets, picnic tables and a rainwater tank, you’ll need to bring your own supply of drinking water.

Set up camp on the water’s edge of Lake Wyaralong for ideal stargazing. Lakeside camping in the Scenic Rim doesn’t get better than this.

Spending a day at Cedar Creek Falls is one of those moments you just know will become core family memories, cherished for years to come. This much-loved swim spot is just a short stroll from Thunderbird Park, gifting views of the open canyon, the waterfall and of course, plenty of rock pools to cool off in.

Pack a picnic lunch and find yourself soaking in one of the best picnic spot views in the Scenic Rim, with the cooler mountain climate providing a refreshing afternoon. Please keep in mind that while the falls are great for all ages, there are many steps along the walk and the section of track from the lookout to the rock pools is not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs.

Grab your tote, we’re going shopping! Weekend markets in the Scenic Rim are sure to add a little whimsy to your shopping adventures. As one of Australia’s most delicious food bowls, discover unmissable country markets brimming with award-winning food and drinks. Whether you’re looking to gather local produce, shop handmade goodies, or simply peruse the local art, enjoy live music, and embrace the warm country spirit, you’ll find it at the markets.

Regular markets worth paying a visit to include The Green Shed every Sunday at Tamborine Mountain Showgrounds, Boonah Country Markets – the second and fourth Sunday of each month and Tambourine Mountain Country Markets every second Sunday.

Seasonal favourites include Darlington Community Markets, Winter Harvest Festival, and The Vintage and Country Brocante.

After one of the best picnic spots in the Scenic Rim? Step out of the pages of your current read and into your own romcom moment overlooking the Fassifern Valley from Mount French. Roll out a picnic rug or snag a picnic table and soak in the panoramic views while munching on some pre-packed goodies.

If you’ve already checked Mount French off your budget-friendly must-do bucket list, not to worry, set off on a side quest for your next idyllic picnic spot in the Scenic Rim.

Step inside the wonderland of Tamborine Mountain Botanic Gardens and find yourself whisked away to exotic locations from the sub-tropical rainforest to temperate gardens, and garden beds overflowing with exotic species like camellias, azaleas and perennials.

Wander along the many walkways within the garden, taking your time to soak in the love and care that the passionate local volunteers have poured into the flourishing greenery.

Adjust your gaze to the treetops, and you’ll find O’Reilly’s Treetop Walk nestled within the World Heritage-listed Lamington National Park. Wind your way along a collection of nine suspension bridges elevated up to 16m above the ground, keeping an eye out for elusive wildlife tucked away in the rainforest canopy.

For a more daring view, climb to the two observation decks constructed in a Strangler Fig, with the highest viewpoint being 30 metres above the ground. While the O’Reilly’s Treetop Walk is a free activity, donations for maintenance to the Green Mountains History Association are appreciated to keep this wonder accessible for all.

Say g’day to the stars of Summer Land Camels, the camels themselves. Give them a friendly pat and snap a selfie before exploring the farm for free at your own pace, enjoying the beautiful backdrop of Flinders Peak. The farm is Australia’s largest camel dairy farm, cultivating milk-based skincare, farm-gate products and even an award-winning world-first camel vodka.

Make the most of your visit with paid experiences on offer like a guided tour, a camel ride around the property, or head to the Homestead Cafe for a bite to eat.

How about a journey back in time to the 17^th century? Step inside the German Cuckoo Clock Nest and find yourself whisked away to a time where hearing a cuckoo bird was a sign of good luck.

Explore charming storytelling within the nest and treat your eyes to some of the finest craftsmanship from cuckoo clocks, to grandfather clocks, wall clocks and even German watches.

If you want to do more than window shop – take home a souvenir to adorn your walls or put your fresh knowledge to the test, trying to spot the Chalet Clocks from the Cuckoo Clocks. Hint: Chalet clocks are inspired by the chalets of Southern Germany and often feature moving characters that tell a story about village life.

For those with little adventurers in tow Mountview Alpaca Farm is a must-visit. Get to know the friendly alpacas on the farm, greeting each of the 50+ fluffy residents by name. For the adults, you’ll be pleased to know the farm is tucked within O’Reilly’s Canungra Valley Vineyards with plenty of room to throw down a rug and unwind.

If you’re here for the romance, it doesn’t get more romantic than an evening picnic as the sun dips below the horizon. However, pair that with the panoramic views of Tamborine Mountain from the Knoll Park Lookout and you’ve got yourself the perfect date night courtesy of mother nature.

Pack a picnic, read a book, do some birdwatching or simply sit back and soak in the moment.

Spend the day perusing the Emporium for quirky finds, Kalbar’s very own treasure trove of vintage, handcrafted, new and everything in between. Held within the landmark Wiss Emporium building, built in 1909, the walls of the building hold stories of their own. Paying homage to the heritage of the building, the design of the Emporium was curated to feel like an old-fashioned general store.

Whether you’re window shopping or looking to buy, you’ll find everything from homewares to gardenware, skincare, art, jewellery and clothing mixed among the collectables and antiques on display.

Feeling inspired to spend a little more time in the Scenic Rim? Check out some of the best places to picnic or cool off in the Scenic Rim.