Introduction to today's journey
Perched atop the Mount Mee plateau, lush green farmland rolls over the hills like a patchwork quilt thanks to the rich agricultural history which has shaped this picturesque landscape. As you traverse the winding roads, the vibrant hues of rolling pastures dotted by healthy cows create a scenic tapestry as far as the eye can see. The air is filled with the gentle aroma of freshly tilled soil mixed with the fresh fragrance of wildflowers. The fertile soil has been cultivated for generations dating back to the early European settlers who recognised the agricultural potential of this haven elevated above the humidity of the coastal lowlands. Historic homesteads and rustic barns dot the landscape tucked away beside the wilderness of the national park.
Today's journey starts from The Gantry following the gravel road down to Bull's Falls and lookout before continuing to Neurum Creek Camp where I cross the creek before heading up Top Road out of the national park entering the fertile farmland of Mount Mee. I follow Settlement Road to the village, and continue along Mount Mee Road to end the day with a sunset at Dahmongah Lookout Park with a view down to the Glasshouse Mountains.
Distance hiked today: 26.9km
Total distance hiked: 184.3km
Today's Journey
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Rain is steadily falling as I set out from The Gantry, with the thick misty clouds shrouding the plateau in an ethereal veil. It’s shortly after sunrise, and the air is filled with the rich, earthy scent of the rainforest. I’m start the day following the short Piccabean Circuit through dense, ancient rainforest that feels alive with history. The towering Piccabeen palms stretch upward, their fronds glistening with droplets of water. |
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After completing the enchanting Piccabean Circuit, I follow the gravel path of Neurum Creek Road, winding its way off the top of the plateau descending into the lush valley below. After about a kilometre, I divert onto the Bulls Falls Track, a short trail to a lookout. The clouds are beginning to peel away from the plateau on the opposite side of the valley, revealing the rugged landscape beneath. |
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From the lookout, I continue following the track towards the nearby Bulls Falls, a small waterfall plunging down the steep rock face into the gorge below. |
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From the falls, I return to the gravel road to continue descending into the heart of the valley. The road mostly falls, but occasionally rises, eventually taking me down to the Neurum Camping Ground. Here, I rest before continuing along the track. |
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Not long after leaving the camping ground, I reach a raised ford crossing Neurum Creek. This is a surprisingly small stream given the depth and grandeur of the valley it has carved, dramatically cutting the Mount Mee plateau in half. |
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Once across the creek, the road begins to rise again, leading me to a junction just before the picturesque Rocky Hole. Here, I follow the Top Road firebreak, which cuts through dense scrub as it ascends the side of the valley up to the southern side of the Mount Mee Plateau. The trail is moderately steep and stretches over quite a distance, winding through a regenerating forest that is teeming with life. I am regaining nearly all the elevation I had lost this morning since departing The Gantry. |
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The trail ends at a T-junction with Centipede Road crossing over. I follow this new track, continuing to ascend steadily until reaching a gate marking the end of the National Park. I have now walked the length of this park from Enoggera Reservoir, offering a rich tapestry of landscapes and history. From here, I am back in civilisation following the sealed Settlement Road through privately owned farmland for the nine kilometres to the Mount Mee village. |
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After hiking along the road through fertile farmlands, I reach the Mount Mee Cemetery. This serene resting place is located about halfway between the national park and the village. The cemetery is steeped in history, serving as the final resting place for many of the area’s early settlers and their descendants.
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I continue following the road, winding through picturesque lifestyle farms nestled in this tranquil countryside. The fields are a vibrant green this summer, a lushness owed to the current La Niña weather pattern. South East Queensland is experiencing one of its wetter cycles, which typically last one to three years, bringing abundant rainfall painting vibrant landscapes. This is in stark contrast to the dry, parched conditions of the El Niño years, which can stretch for seven to eight years, leaving the grass brittle and brown. |
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As I continue following the road, cows watch me from the lush pastures. This fertile plateau is home to a thriving beef and dairy industry. The rolling hills are dotted with cattle grazing on the bright green grass. |
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Eventually, I reach Mount Mee Village, the first village I have hiked through since leaving Mount Glorious. This quaint settlement is no more than a small hall, a school, and a church, all nestled amidst picturesque lifestyle farms. From here, I follow the busy Mount Mee Road, winding its way through the lush countryside. |
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Eventually, I reach the Dahmongah Lookout, a perfect spot to conclude today’s hike safely off the busy road. The lookout offers a breathtaking panorama, and as I am settling in, the sky begins to transform with the colours of the setting sun filtering through the clouds. The golden rays of sunlight cast a warm glow over the plateau, stretching back towards the national park. From this vantage point, I can see as far as the Somerset Escarpment, where I had been exploring just yesterday afternoon. |
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