Strangler Cairn
Discover Andy Goldsworthy's Strangler Cairn, a unique art piece slowly reclaimed by nature in Queensland's lush Conondale National Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful nature
Strangler Cairn
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful nature
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Andy Goldsworthy's Strangler Cairn, a unique art piece slowly reclaimed by nature in Queensland's lush Conondale National Park.
"A unique granite sculpture by Andy Goldsworthy, slowly being reclaimed by a strangler fig in the rainforest."
🚗 4WD Recommended
Creek crossings are common; a 4WD is best for accessing Booloumba Creek directly.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The hike can be challenging with stairs and uneven terrain. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Strangler Cairn
Conondale National Park
A unique granite sculpture by Andy Goldsworthy, slowly being reclaimed by nature. A testament to regeneration and art's place in the wild.
Booloumba Creek
Conondale National Park
The scenic creek offers opportunities for rafting and a refreshing dip after your hike to the cairn.
Rainforest Trails
Conondale National Park
Immerse yourself in lush subtropical rainforest with well-maintained tracks, offering a peaceful escape and wildlife spotting.
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Planning Your Visit
Accessing Strangler Cairn
Best Time for Your Visit
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Insider Tips
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🚗 4WD Recommended
Creek crossings are common; a 4WD is best for accessing Booloumba Creek directly.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The hike can be challenging with stairs and uneven terrain. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Pack plenty of water and snacks, especially if planning a longer exploration or picnic.
⏰ Allow Ample Time
The walk to Strangler Cairn is about 2.5 hours return. Factor in travel time and potential stops.
Tips
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🚗 4WD Recommended
Creek crossings are common; a 4WD is best for accessing Booloumba Creek directly.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The hike can be challenging with stairs and uneven terrain. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Pack plenty of water and snacks, especially if planning a longer exploration or picnic.
⏰ Allow Ample Time
The walk to Strangler Cairn is about 2.5 hours return. Factor in travel time and potential stops.
🌿 Respect Nature
This is a conservation park. Stay on marked trails and leave no trace.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the unique artistic and natural beauty of the Strangler Cairn, highlighting the immersive rainforest experience. While the hike can be challenging, the reward is a profound connection with nature and art. Some find the access difficult without a 4WD.
"Beautiful views, the food there is yummy, but I do wish they had a few more salads and healthier options. Thus the 4 stars. Being a diabetic you are always looking for healthier options. The staff were helpful and friendly and the atmosphere is just lovely. The walks 🚶♂️ through the reserve are beautiful. My advice is to go slow, so many people miss interesting stuff because they are in too much of a rush. Things like the trap door spiders and the worms /grubs that drag green sticks into there underground holes munching on the end until they disappear down the hole. There is a hanging birds nest over the creek that no one much seems to notice. Beautiful, peaceful walk!💖"
Debra Pickering
"It is a conservation park located on the Blackall Range east of Maleny, in the Sunshine Coast Region, Queensland, Australia. It is about 90 minutes from Coolum beach by car. Public transport takes longer. The reserve is located in the mountain rainforests of the Maleny region overlooking the Glass House Mountains. The 55-hectare reserve consists of subtropical rainforest, which are mainly located in the north-east parts of Australia. The Cairncross reserve has an area of 530,000 square metres and reaches a peak canopy of 440 m. The main species of tree is the Australian red cedar. Strangler figs and fungi are some of the other plants found here. You can spend several hours here depending on your interests. Popular place, lots of tourists and locals. Uneven terrain, lot of walking, mostly under tree shade. You will likely see small wildlife along the tracks as you wander about. Animals include about 140 birds. There's a large car park, barbecue and a cafe. Toilets available. Entry fees apply. Gift/souvenir shop available on site. Friendly staff and great service. Wear comfy shoes, take water, wear hat, sunscreen. Great place for photography."
s vivekananda
"Family outing - visitors from Vancouver BC - an educational experience for children and adults.
Interesting displays - friendly staff - a great walk through the forest. Met up with one of the volunteers - Carmel - thank you for explaining a lot of interesting facts about the plants and birds. A well run and organised Tourist Attraction!"
Linda Hansbauer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Strangler Cairn is located in Conondale National Park. Access to the Booloumba Creek day-use area, the trailhead for the Strangler Cairn walk, often requires a 4WD vehicle due to creek crossings. If you don't have a 4WD, you may need to park further away and hike in, or consider alternative access points. 
Public transport to Conondale National Park is very limited and not a practical option for reaching Strangler Cairn. It's best to have your own vehicle, preferably a 4WD.
The drive involves scenic routes through the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. Be prepared for some unsealed roads and potential creek crossings, especially closer to Booloumba Creek.
Yes, there is a day-use area at Booloumba Creek with parking facilities, which serves as the starting point for the Strangler Cairn walk.
No, the Strangler Cairn is a sculpture located within the rainforest and is only accessible by foot via a hiking trail from the Booloumba Creek day-use area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Conondale National Park is generally free. However, some day-use areas might have associated fees or require a gold coin donation for conservation efforts. It's always a good idea to check the official Queensland National Parks website for the latest information.
Conondale National Park is typically open year-round during daylight hours. However, specific facilities like campgrounds or visitor centers may have different operating times.
No, advance booking is generally not required for day visits to Conondale National Park or the Strangler Cairn walk. However, if you plan to camp, booking is essential.
For day hikes to Strangler Cairn, no special permits are usually required. However, if you plan to undertake longer treks or camping, you will need to obtain the necessary permits.
Visitors can support conservation efforts through gold coin donations at the discovery centre or by adhering to park guidelines and leaving no trace.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The walk to Strangler Cairn is approximately 6km return and takes about 2.5 hours. It's a Grade 3 walk with stairs and uneven terrain, leading you through beautiful rainforest.
You might spot pademelons, various birds, and potentially other native Australian wildlife. The rainforest environment is rich in biodiversity.
The walk involves stairs and uneven terrain, which might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues. It's a moderate hike.
The day-use area typically offers toilets, picnic tables, and BBQ facilities, making it a good spot for a break or a picnic.
Yes, Booloumba Creek is a popular spot for swimming and rafting, offering a refreshing way to cool down after your hike.
📸 📸 Photography
The Strangler Cairn itself, with its interplay of stone and fig tree, is a prime subject. The surrounding rainforest, Booloumba Creek, and the general lushness of Conondale National Park also offer stunning photographic opportunities. +1
Early morning or late afternoon can offer beautiful, soft light filtering through the rainforest canopy. Midday sun can be harsh, but can also create dramatic shadows.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. However, a wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the scale of the rainforest, and a polarizing filter can help manage reflections on water.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits, so it's best to check with park authorities if you plan extensive filming.
Focus on the details of the stone sculpture being enveloped by the strangler fig, the textures of the rainforest floor, and the reflections in Booloumba Creek.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Conondale National Park offers other family-friendly options. The Booloumba Creek day-use area is a great spot for picnics and has facilities like toilets and BBQs. Kids can enjoy playing by the creek, and with a bit of luck, you might spot some local wildlife like pademelons. Consider visiting Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve near Maleny instead if you're looking for easier walks suitable for all ages. It offers beautiful rainforest trails, a discovery centre, and stunning views of the Glass House Mountains, making it a more accessible nature experience for families.
🚗 Adventure Seekers & 4WD Enthusiasts
+1Beyond the Strangler Cairn, explore other tracks within the park that are more suited to 4WD vehicles. The Conondale Range Great Walk offers extensive trekking, and the park is known for its opportunities for activities like rafting down Booloumba Creek.
Remember to check track conditions and carry appropriate recovery gear.🌿 Nature & Art Lovers
+1Take your time on the walk to truly absorb the details of the artwork and the environment. The sounds of the rainforest, the textures of the moss-covered trees, and the play of light through the canopy all contribute to the magical atmosphere. Consider visiting during quieter times to fully appreciate the tranquility.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Strangler Cairn
+1Goldsworthy's work often emphasizes the relationship between art, nature, and time. The Strangler Cairn is a prime example, showcasing how natural processes can transform and integrate man-made structures. Visitors often describe it as a 'magical' or 'surreal' experience, a quiet testament to nature's ability to reclaim and adapt.
+1This piece is more than just a sculpture; it's a conversation between art and the wild. The slow, inexorable growth of the fig tree around the stone serves as a powerful reminder of nature's resilience and its ability to find a way, even in the most unexpected places. It encourages contemplation on themes of growth, decay, and the cyclical nature of life.
Navigating Conondale National Park
+1For those seeking adventure, the Conondale Range Great Walk offers multi-day trekking opportunities, showcasing the park's varied landscapes. However, for a more accessible experience, the day-use areas like Booloumba Creek provide picnic spots and shorter walks. It's crucial to be prepared for the conditions, especially regarding vehicle access and weather.
+1When planning your visit, always check the official Queensland National Parks website for the latest information on track conditions, road closures, and any necessary permits. Being well-informed ensures a safer and more enjoyable exploration of this beautiful natural area.
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