The western section, from Hampton to the end of a spur of the Great Dividing Range, was also developed to facilitate the harvesting of timber.

Prior to European settlement the rich volcanic soil on the ridge supported a sub-tropical rainforest, which contained timbers that were in high demand, including red cedar, tallowwood and hoop pine.

[4] The road later provided access to cleared land that was used for dairying and beef cattle grazing.

[5] This section provides access to Ravensbourne National Park, which preserves a remnant of the rainforest.

The road is now a popular tourist drive, particularly as part of a round trip from the Brisbane area to the Toowoomba district.