Every Scenic Rim Mountain: A Complete Guide to the Mountains of South East Queensland's Scenic Rim

The Scenic Rim is home to some of Queensland's most spectacular mountain landscapes. Stretching south-west of Brisbane, this diverse region features ancient volcanic peaks, dramatic escarpments, rainforest-clad summits and rugged national parks that attract hikers, photographers and nature lovers throughout the year.

From the towering cliffs of Mount Barney to the distinctive peaks of Mount Maroon and the rainforest-covered summit of Mount Tamborine, each mountain offers its own unique landscape, history and outdoor experiences.

This guide brings together the major mountains of the Scenic Rim, providing an overview of each destination and helping you plan your next adventure in one of South East Queensland's most scenic regions.

Mount Barney

Elevation: 1,359 metres

Mount Barney is the highest mountain in the Scenic Rim and one of Queensland's most iconic peaks. Located within Mount Barney National Park, its twin summits dominate the surrounding landscape and are renowned among experienced bushwalkers.

Highlights

• Highest mountain in the Scenic Rim

• Challenging summit hikes

• Ancient volcanic landscape

• Outstanding panoramic views

• Exceptional landscape photography opportunities

Best For

• Experienced hikers

• Landscape photography

• Wilderness experiences

Mount Maroon

Elevation: 967 metres

Mount Maroon rises prominently above the surrounding farmland and is one of the region's most recognisable volcanic peaks. The steep summit walk rewards visitors with expansive views across the Scenic Rim.

Highlights

• Steep summit climb

• Volcanic history

• Panoramic summit views

• Popular sunrise destination

Mount May

Elevation: Approximately 836 metres

Often overshadowed by its larger neighbours, Mount May provides a quieter wilderness experience within Mount Barney National Park.

Visitors should be experienced in remote bushwalking, as tracks are limited and navigation skills may be required.

Mount Lindesay

Elevation: 1,175 metres

Mount Lindesay's distinctive volcanic plug forms one of the Scenic Rim's most striking landmarks near the New South Wales border.

While climbing opportunities are limited, the mountain is an impressive feature viewed from surrounding lookouts and rural roads.

Mount Ernest

Elevation: Approximately 873 metres

Mount Ernest forms part of the volcanic landscape surrounding Mount Barney and contributes to the dramatic scenery of the southern Scenic Rim.

Mount Clunie

Elevation: 1,177 metres

Located within Main Range National Park, Mount Clunie is one of the region's highest and most remote mountains, surrounded by subtropical rainforest and World Heritage-listed wilderness.

Mount Superbus

Elevation: 1,375 metres

Mount Superbus is Queensland's highest peak south of the Great Dividing Range and one of the highest mountains in South East Queensland.

Located within Main Range National Park, it is renowned for ancient Antarctic beech forests, cool mountain climate and diverse birdlife.

Highlights

• Queensland's highest mountain south of the Great Dividing Range

• World Heritage rainforest

• Excellent birdwatching

• Remote hiking opportunities

Mount Cordeaux

Elevation: 1,135 metres

Mount Cordeaux is one of the Scenic Rim's most accessible high mountains, with a well-maintained walking track leading through subtropical rainforest to scenic lookouts overlooking the Fassifern Valley.

Bare Rock

Elevation: Approximately 1,160 metres

Bare Rock offers spectacular views across Main Range National Park and neighbouring peaks, making it a favourite destination for experienced hikers.

Mount Mitchell

Elevation: 1,168 metres

Mount Mitchell features one of Queensland's classic summit walks, with breathtaking views across Main Range National Park and the Scenic Rim.

Mount Greville

Elevation: 767 metres

Famous for Palm Gorge, Mount Greville offers one of the Scenic Rim's most distinctive hiking experiences.

The summit provides panoramic views over Lake Moogerah and surrounding mountain ranges.

Mount Edwards

Elevation: 654 metres

Overlooking Lake Moogerah, Mount Edwards is popular for its rewarding summit views and moderately challenging walking track.

Mount French

Elevation: 579 metres

Known internationally for rock climbing, Mount French forms part of Moogerah Peaks National Park and overlooks the Fassifern Valley.

Mount Moon

Elevation: Approximately 784 metres

Mount Moon is a rugged volcanic peak that attracts experienced hikers seeking quieter trails and expansive views.

Mount Tamborine

Elevation: Approximately 525 metres

Unlike the isolated volcanic peaks found elsewhere in the Scenic Rim, Mount Tamborine is a broad plateau renowned for rainforest walks, waterfalls, wineries, galleries and spectacular lookouts.

Highlights

• Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk

• Curtis Falls

• Cedar Creek Falls

• Scenic lookouts

• Boutique wineries

• Galleries and cafés

Mount Chinghee

Elevation: Approximately 718 metres

Located near Rathdowney, Mount Chinghee is a distinctive peak that contributes to the dramatic mountain scenery of the southern Scenic Rim.

Moogerah Peaks

The Moogerah Peaks include several volcanic mountains surrounding Lake Moogerah, including:

• Mount Greville

• Mount Edwards

• Mount French

• Mount Moon

Together they create one of the Scenic Rim's most recognisable landscapes.

Best Mountains for Hiking

If you're planning a walk, consider:

• Mount Cordeaux

• Mount Mitchell

• Mount Greville

• Mount Edwards

• Mount Barney (experienced hikers only)

• Mount Maroon

Best Mountains for Photography

Outstanding photography locations include:

• Mount Barney

• Mount Maroon

• Mount Superbus

• Mount Greville

• Mount Tamborine

• Bare Rock

Sunrise and sunset often provide the most dramatic light, particularly during the cooler months when atmospheric clarity is at its best.

Family-Friendly Mountain Destinations

For visitors seeking easier experiences, these destinations combine mountain scenery with accessible facilities:

• Mount Tamborine

• Mount Cordeaux

• Queen Mary Falls (near Main Range)

• Cunningham's Gap lookouts

When to Visit

The Scenic Rim can be visited year-round, but the cooler months from autumn to spring generally provide the most comfortable hiking conditions and the clearest views.

Summer often brings lush landscapes, flowing waterfalls and dramatic afternoon storm clouds, while winter mornings can produce beautiful mist-filled valleys that are especially rewarding for photographers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the highest mountain in the Scenic Rim?

Mount Superbus (1,375 metres) is the highest mountain within the broader Scenic Rim region, while Mount Barney (1,359 metres) is the region's most iconic and one of Queensland's premier hiking destinations.

Which Scenic Rim mountain is best for beginners?

Mount Cordeaux and Mount Tamborine are among the most accessible mountain destinations, offering rewarding scenery without the technical difficulty of more remote peaks.

What is the most photographed mountain in the Scenic Rim?

Mount Barney is widely regarded as the Scenic Rim's most photographed mountain, thanks to its distinctive twin peaks and dramatic volcanic landscape.

Are all Scenic Rim mountains suitable for hiking?

No. While many mountains have established walking tracks, others are remote, untracked or require advanced navigation and bushwalking experience. Always research track conditions, weather and park alerts before setting out.

Discover the Mountains of the Scenic Rim

The mountains of the Scenic Rim are among South East Queensland's greatest natural treasures. Whether you're seeking challenging summit hikes, peaceful rainforest walks, panoramic lookouts or outstanding landscape photography, the region offers remarkable diversity within a relatively short drive of Brisbane.

As you explore these mountains, take the time to appreciate not only their beauty but also their geological history, rich biodiversity and cultural significance. Each peak tells part of the story of an ancient volcanic landscape that continues to shape one of Queensland's most spectacular destinations.

About the author

Ross Langdon is an award-winning aerial landscape photographer specialising in South East Queensland. He has spent years documenting the region's landscapes through drone photography and creates the destination guides and photography articles published on this website. Learn more about Ross.

Mount Barney

Mount Edwards & Lake Moogerah

Mount Mitchell