Now closed, the railway line was originally constructed to support small-scale agriculture in the area and to provide access to timber reserves at Blackbutt and Nanango.

It was situated on the branch line that opened from Oakey to Cooyar in 1913 and closed in 1964. Muntapa Tunnel serves as a reminder of the Region's pioneering days and the important role railways played in developing the area.

Muntapa Tunnel was listed on the Queensland Heritage Register on 3 May 2007 having satisfied the following criteria:

• the place is important in demonstrating the evolution or pattern of Queensland's history
• the place demonstrates rare, uncommon or endangered aspects of Queensland's cultural heritage
• the place is important in demonstrating the principal characteristics of a particular class of cultural places
• the place is important because of its aesthetic significance.

The tunnel is located about 40 km north of Oakey or 16 km south-west of Cooyar. The access road (Narko Nutgrove Road) is unsealed.

Google maps:

• Directions from Oakey
• Directions from Cooyar

Due to the isolated location, there is no drinking water supply. Please leave your pets at home.

Muntapa Tunnel Walk

Best for: Bushwalking

Classification: Grade 3

Distance: 1,050m total distance

Walking time: 15 minutes

Description: The trailhead of Muntapa Tunnel Walk is located within the park. The walking track surface consists of natural soil and crushed rock. It has two tracks, one to each end of the tunnel. The northern track has metal stairs that descend to the tunnel. The southern track has a lookout to take photos of the tunnel. Beware of cars when visiting as part of this walk is shared with vehicles.