Challenging unmarked trail with scrambling sections, boulders climb and adrenaline razorback ridge for experienced hikers. An exciting great track in Mount Barney National Park with spectacular views of Mount Barney and Mount Lindesay.
Mount Ernest. Photo by Author.
The hike is very hard due to the remote location, the trail is not very well marked, scrambling on rocky sections is involved and there is a razorback ridge with a sheer cliff on one side. You must have hiking experience, carry a map or a tracker for navigational aid and a good level of fitness. Ankle-supporting footwear is strongly recommended.
The razorback of Mount Ernest. Photo by Author.
In particular, there are parts of the trail litter with leaves and lots of loose rocks. The rocks can easily roll and they are a hazard for hikers. Pay great attention not to dislodge the rocks and wait to make your next step to avoid the risk of rocks rolling on hikers behind you.
Rocky sections. Photo by Author.
The distinctive peaks of Mount Barney, Mount Maroon, Mount May, Mount Lindesay, Mount Ernest, Mount Ballow and Mount Clunie make up Mount Barney National Park. These rugged peaks are the remains of the ancient Focal Peak Shield Volcano which erupted 24 million years ago.
Mount Barney views from Mount Ernest. Photo by Author.
The summit of Mount Ernest is 964m high, elevation gain is 848m, the length of the trail is 11.4km return. Allow 8 hours, including walking time and breaks.
Mount Ernest in the clouds viewed from Mount Barney, behind Mount Ernest is Mount Lindesay. Photo by Author.
The starting of the hike is at Yellowpinch Carpark, Mount Barney Lodge, 1093 Upper Logan Rd, Mount Barney QLD 4287.
The trail is not contemplated by the National Park, it is a hiking community trail, not very well marked and there is a faint footpad.
There are two ways to access Mount Ernest:
Access the mountain traversing private property. You must have permission for entering private property - call the Rathdowney Information Centre: 5544 1222.
To stay within national park grounds to access Mt Ernest, you have to cross Cronan Creek from campsite 9 and find the logging trail.
If you decide to walk through private property permission need to be requested to the landowners. Photo by Author.
You need to cross the Logan River few times.
Crossing the Logan River. Photo by Author.
Beautiful flowers along the way to Mount Ernest. Photo by Author.
Second crossing on the Logan River.
Crossing the Logan River. Photo by Author.
From the hill the amazing views of Mount Barney. Photo by Author.
There is section of the trail with rocks and loose ground.
Take care along the rocks and the loose ground. Photo by Author.
In some rocky sections, scrambling is required. That is why the hike is hard.
Scrambling is required in some parts of the rocky sections. Photo by Author.
When you are on the ridgeline, take in the beautiful views of the surroundings, mountains and valleys.
Beautiful views from the ridge line. Photo by Author.
Mount Ernest has two peaks, joined together by the razorback.
Zee and Todd are part of the group Hiking South East Qld and More climbing Mount Ernest. In the background is the first peak of Mount Ernest. Photo by Author.
Native flora. Photo by Author.
Flowers on Mount Ernest. Photo by Author.
Taking in the great views. Photo by Author.
The two peaks of Mount Ernest. Photo by Author.
Scrambling up on the rocks. Photo by Author.
Views of Mount Lindesay. Photo by author.
Bring a medium day backpack with 3.0 litres of water, lunch and snacks. Long sleeves and long trousers are preferable.
Pack a raincoat, torch, tissues and phone. During summer, you can bring electrolytes to dissolve in water to compensate for the loss of salts through perspiration.
Put in your backpack first aid kit, insect repellent in form of cream; please avoid the spray since the aerosol created during the spraying is going to spread in the environment.
Walk with family, friends or in a group. Never alone!
The Group Hiking South East Qld and More at the summit of Mount Ernest. Photo by Author.
Admiring the views from Mount Ernest. Photo by Author.
Descending the steep trail. Photo by Author.
Most of Mount Barney National Park is in the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area. It contains rainforest similar to those that once covered the ancient supercontinent of Gondwana.
Today only small pockets of rainforests survive on the east coast and for this reason, they are protected. The rainforest is home to great biodiversity of plants and animals.
The first time I climbed Mount Ernest, I have to stop every few minutes to take photos of the amazing surrounding. There are great views over Mount Barney National park, Mount Lindesay and the New South Wales.
The trail is challenging but it makes Mount Ernest more interesting.
Mount Ernest has two peaks, once you are on the first peak, you have to descend into the saddle and then climb up the boulder section. Then you pass the razorback and continue along the ridge. The top is marked with a cairn.
Descending is hard too because the risk of dislodging rocks and to slide on the dry leaves and loose dirt.
If you start early, you should make it to visit Rathlogan Olive Grove & Shed Cafe.
The Shed Cafe is a family-owned business operated by the Cheevers family located in the foothills of Mt Barney. It is about 17 minutes drive from Yellopinch Carpark and 12 km distance.
An aspect of the Rathlogan Olive Grove & Shed Cafe. Photo by Author.
Otherwise, the country towns of Rathdowney and Boonah offers places to have refreshments.
Blumbergville Clock by Christopher Trotter 2014 in Boonah. Photo by Author.
