Monto - Scenic Drives

As you journey through the different parts of the region you will always be greeted with a firm handshake, a wide smile and a warm welcome.

Beautiful Betsy crash site
"Beautiful Betsy" crash site

Cania Gorge – Kroombit Tops: Link two National Parks 

For the 4WD enthusiast, the district around Monto offers a voyage of discovery and adventure. Link two National Parks – the rugged red sandstone cliffs of Cania Gorge National Park, through the wilderness country ranges of Mahoon Creek to the lofty heights of the escarpment at Kroombit Tops National Park provide an adventure of a lifetime. The Liberator bomber “Beautiful Betsy” crashed here during the Second World War and stayed hidden for nearly 50 years.

Here the unspoiled beauty of open rainforest overwhelms the visitor. Along the road you will encounter the imposing Grasstrees, spectacular 5-6 metre high Fern Trees, high Piccabeen Palms and gigantic Blue Gums. Explore scenic dirt roads, climb steep slopes and splash through surprising gullies.

Kalpowar State Forest

Kalpowar State Forest
Kalpowar State Forest

Incredible natural beauty! From Monto travel 37km north-east on Gladstone-Monto Road to the turnoff to Kalpower State Forest. The gravel access road to the State Forest is accessible by conventional vehicle, caravans and motor homes. Patches of dense rainforest with towering hoop pines remain between open eucalypt forests and hoop pine plantations in the Forest. Enjoy a picnic or camp for a night under the stars in a tranquil bush setting beside Crane Creek. Camping permits are required and fees apply.

Coominglah State Forest

Driving through Coominglah State Forest is a pleasant way to spend a day. The main entrance is via the Burnett Highway 19km north of Monto or 76km south of Biloela. The Forest has many roads and tracks once used to haul logs to local sawmills.  Some of the tracks are maintained as fire control lines, while others offer visitors a pleasant forest drive.  The nature of the soils throughout the Forest - weathered sandstones and clays - dictate road conditions in wet weather.  Visitors who want to experience forest drives should always check weather conditions before heading off.

Hurdle Gully Lookout
Hurdle Gully Lookout

Whilst there are no walking tracks within Coominglah State Forest, you can stretch your legs at the Hurdle Gully Lookout and enjoy a long breathtaking view into the valley of Three Moon Creek across to the Mulgildie Plateau and the Burnett River catchment.  The lookout has an interpretive display, picnic tables and small parking area, but no water or toilet.

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Monto
Historical and Cultural
National Parks
Water Sports and Recreation