The north face of Mt Beerwah
Closed for almost two years, the Mount Beerwah track and lookout in the Glass House Mountains National Park is expected to re-open in early August 2010 according to the Queensland Department of Environment and Resource Management.
Last open on 5 June 2008, the track has been closed due to a 30 ton rock fall and minor landslide out of concern for the safety of visitors .
Located on the Sunshine Coast hinterland about nine kilometres from the Glass House Mountains township and approximately 30 kilometres from Brisbane, Mt Beerwah is popular among bush walkers and climbers all year round.
It’s the highest of the series of steep sided 20 million year old volcanic plugs that comprise the Glass House Mountains and is rich in Aboriginal history.
A trip to Mt Beerwah will be an learning adventure for the whole family learning about the unique cultural significance of this area to its original inhabitance, the Gubbi Gubbi Aboriginal people.
Avid bushwalkers Todd and Kirinya Reynolds have been waiting patiently for the track to re-open and are excited about the prospect of finally conquering the 556 metre summit.
“We can’t wait to see what the view’s like”, Todd Reynolds said.
The Department of Environment and Resource Management advises the trek to Mt Beerwah’s summit is a category class 5 climb which means it’s steep and difficult and recommends bushwalkers and rock climbers have a high level of fitness.
However, while initially daunting, the track is only 2.6 kilometres return and takes around 3 – 4 hours to complete.
If you can brave a few steep rocky sections that require some scrambling like a mountain goat, the breathtaking views across the Sunshine Coast are your reward. In fact, you’ll be on cloud nine!
How to get there:
Mt Beerwah and the Glasshouse Mountains are approximately 30 kilometres from Brisbane with access via the Bruce Highway.
Walk hints:
- This challenging climb is recommended for experienced climbers only.
- It is very steep and should not be attempted in wet conditions.
- Leave early in the day and allow plenty of time to return in daylight.
- Take plenty of drinking water and wear a hat and sunscreen.
- Wear sturdy shoes and be careful walking on loose scree.
- Never climb alone. Make sure you let a responsible person know your plans and who to contact should you fail to return on time.
- Be sure to observe and comply with all regulatory signs.
Useful links:
The Department of Environment and Resource Management: http://www.derm.qld.gov.au/water/index.html
