The Best Trails For Hiking In Brisbane

Get those legs moving all while exploring more of Queensland’s natural beauty.

Brisbane is full of incredible restaurants, a bustling cafe scene and ample things to do, but sometimes a break from the chaos of city life is needed and your body craves an escape to nature. And what better way to do that than hiking in and around Brisbane?

Well, put those walking shoes on because we’ve found all the best hikes near Brisbane for any skill level.

1. Summit Track, Mt Coot-tha

People standing at Mount Coot-tha Lookout at sunset hike in Brisbane — With views that go on for days, this walk is well worth it. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Friends, lovers, families, dogs – everyone in Brissie knows this iconic peak for its cracking views of the city.

Mt Coot-tha Lookout has sweeping views of Brisbane City, Moreton Bay, and around to the Tweed Volcano, Main Range and Mount Barney and Flinders Peak.

This track leads from the JC Slaughter Falls picnic area to the lookout and is just a 15-minute drive from the CBD.

Difficulty: Easy-moderate.
Terrain: Hilly.
Distance: 1.9 kilometres one way.
What to bring: Water, camera, sun protection.

2. North Gorge Walk, North Stradbroke Island

Kangaroo on North Gorge Walk — You’ll spot some wildlife on land. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

One of the must-dos on North Stradbroke Island, the North Gorge Walk follows the headland of Point Lookout all while showing off breathtaking ocean views.

If you do it between June and November, you might even get to see migrating humpback whales, as the Gorge Walk is the best vantage point.

Difficulty: Easy-moderate.
Terrain: Boardwalk.
Distance: 1.2 kilometres.
What to bring: Water, camera, sun protection.

3. Natural Bridge circuit, Springbrook National Park

Waterfall coming from natural bridge above in Springbrook National Park — Glow worms and a waterfall? Yes, please. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

The Natural Bridge circuit walk is a sealed circuit track that takes you through the forest, across Cave Creek and into the arched cave to witness the waterfall plunging from above.

Not only that, but at night you’ll be blessed with the tiny green lights of thousands of nocturnal glow worms! Glow worms are visible year-round; however, their display is significantly reduced during the winter months.

Be careful walking at night and make sure you bring sufficient lighting. There are also some restricted access areas to keep in mind when planning your hike.

Difficulty: Easy-moderate.
Terrain: Asphalt track, but due to long sets of stairs, it is easier to walk this track in a clockwise direction.
Distance: One kilometre.
What to bring: Mosquito repellent, drinking water, torch.

4. Tamborine Mountain

Woman standing in front of Curtis Falls — Stop at the beautiful Curtis Falls on your way. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Walking tracks are provided in six sections of Tamborine National Park . Most of them are short and relatively easy, although some have short, steep sections.

The hiking trails range from grade 1 to grade 4, so you can choose the track you want to take based on your fitness capabilities.

Difficulty: Easy-moderate.
Terrain: Some steep sections.
Distance: Ranging from 400 metres to 4.8 kilometres.
What to bring: Water, sun protection.

5. Northbrook Gorges, D’Aguilar National Park

Ferns in Northbrook Gorges near Brisbane — This hike is suited for more experienced hikers. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Bring your swimmers for this next hike! You’ll have to swim through two freshwater gorges as part of this trail.

You’ll come across rock pools along the journey, with the longest measuring about 15 to 20 metres.

But the highlight of the Northbrook Gorges hike is the large, almost crystal clear, rock swimming pool, complete with a short waterfall, found in the second gorge.

The majority of the hike will take you over rocks, boulders, and rough and slippery terrain, making it best suited for fit and experienced hikers.

Difficulty: Moderate.
Terrain: Wet!
Distance: Six kilometres.
What to bring: Swimmers, drinking water, sun protection.

6. Kondalilla Falls circuit

Bottom of Kondalilla Falls hike near Brisbane — Take a dip at Kondalilla Falls on your hike. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Located on the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, the Kondalilla Falls circuit is a stunning hike surrounded by lush rainforest.

You’ll follow the Picnic Creek circuit down the escarpment, go past rock pools and a lookout with views of Kondalilla Falls, all the way down to the base of the waterfall and continue back up the ridge.

But bear in mind there are over 300 stairs on the Kondalilla Falls circuit, so you need to be reasonably fit. Always come prepared , and allow enough time to finish your walk in daylight hours.

Difficulty: Moderate.
Terrain: Stairs.
Distance: 4.7 kilometres.
What to bring: Water, sun protection, camera, swimmers.

7. Araucaria track, D’Aguilar National Park

Turtle sitting on log at Araucaria track near Brisbane — Spot turtles, among other wildlife. (Image: Matthew Taylor/Tourism and Events Queensland)

The Araucaria track is a delightful trail that meanders through open eucalypt forest, winding along the forested shores of picturesque Enoggera Reservoir, before looping back around one of the reservoir’s peninsulas.

Head out early because the trail gets quite busy later in the day, and keep an eye out for brown snakes, and dress accordingly – long pants, good shoes, etc.

Difficulty: Moderate.
Terrain: Hilly.
Distance: Five kilometres.
What to bring: Swimmers, drinking water, sun protection, camera, binoculars.

8. Mount Ngungun, Glass House Mountains

Standing at the top of Mount Ngungun at sunrise near Brisbane after hike — The views from the top of Mount Ngungun are well worth the tough hike. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

If you prefer your hikes a little more rugged, up the ante at Mount Ngungun .

Located in the iconic Glass House Mountains, this short trail begins in an open forest and has some unbelievable views of Mount Tibrogargan, Mount Coonowrin and Mount Beerwah from the summit.

You should be moderately fit to do this grade 4 hike, and it passes close to cliff edges so be careful.

Difficulty: Moderate-hard.
Terrain: Steep.
Distance: 2.8 kilometres.
What to bring: Water, sun protection, supportive shoes.

9. Mount Maroon

Man standing at the top of Mount Maroon after doing hike — You’ll be feeling Mount Maroon in your legs. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Mount Maroon is a great warm-up climb if you’ve ever wanted to tackle the neighbouring Mount Barney.

It’s steep from the get-go, and the hike will test those leg muscles on a number of occasions. But even though it’s an intense track, the views are well worth it. But only if you are an experienced hiker.

Offline navigation is strongly recommended for this one. And as always, let someone know where you are and when you plan to finish the hike.

Difficulty: Moderate-hard.
Terrain: Steep.
Distance: Six kilometres.
What to bring: Lots of drinking water, sun protection and a personal locator beacon (PLB) is recommended.

10. Mount Barney

Two men at the top of Mount Barney after hike in Brisbane — Mount Barney is not for the faint-hearted. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

The mother of all Brisbane hikes really takes it up a notch at Mount Barney – South East Queensland’s second-highest peak.

There are four walking tracks at Mount Barney, all classified as grade 4, but varying in length. Yellow Pinch, Lower Portals, Cronan Creek and Upper Portals.

Remember to stay safe at all times , only choose activities that suit the skills, experience and fitness of your group, never walk alone and make sure someone knows where you are, and what time you plan to finish hiking the trail.

Difficulty: Moderate-hard.
Terrain: Rugged.
Distance: Two kilometres return (Yellow Pinch), 7.4 kilometres return (Lower Portals), eight kilometres return (Upper Portals) and 12 kilometres return (Cronan Creek Falls).
What to bring: Lots of water, chemical tablets to treat water, a raincoat, a PLB is recommended, bushwalking equipment and all your sun protection goodies.

As the cooler weather rolls in, head to this popular Sunshine Coast destination to enjoy stunning natural beauty, culinary wonders and mild temperatures.

As southern Australia’s weather starts to cool – the frost visiting every morning and the evening chill descending at dusk – you might reach for your thickest cable knit sweater and warmest blanket. But why not reach for your suitcase and sunglasses and book a ticket to Noosa in winter instead?

Sure, it’s a favourite destination for sun-seeking summer travellers. But as locals will readily tell you, winter is the best time to uncover hidden gems across the region – not only is the weather mild and enjoyable, but the beaches and hinterland are picture-perfect, too. You might even spot a whale or two if you visit from June to September.

Discover how to spend your winter surrounded by Noosa’s stunning natural beauty.

Noosa Rivermouth And Main Beach — Make the most of mild temperatures of Noosa in winter.

Where to eat in Noosa

Known for its dynamic cuisine, Noosa is an overflowing foodie destination. Whatever your tastebuds fancy, the region has it covered.

There are the classic eateries, like lively beachfront Bistro C (try the caramelised pork belly), popular Season Restaurant on Hastings Street (order the spanner crab pasta) and stylish Locale (our pick is the slow roasted White Pyrenees lamb shoulder).

There are also chic new restaurants offering tasty dishes, like the Mediterranean fare at Pelis , Cantonese-inspired dim sums at Sabrosa , organic sourdough pizza from El Capitano , traditional recipes and tequila at Dona Cocina Mexicana and modern Italian-Australian creations from Lucio’s Marina .

diners at Lucio's Marina in noosa in winter — Taste modern Italian-Australian at Lucio’s Marina. (Image: Nickolas May)

Where to stay in Noosa

Once you’re full, you’ll need to find a place to lay your head, and Noosa has no shortage of accommodation options. From five-star resorts with palm-fringed lagoon pools to self-catered apartments and family-friendly budget options, stays in the heart of the action on Hastings Street to sleeping steps from the beach or in more spacious and relaxed accommodation along the river, Noosa offers something for everyone.

There’s the laid-back luxury of Netanya Noosa overlooking Noosa Main Beach, which offers studios, two- and three-bedroom apartments, or the family-oriented Ivory Palms Resort in Noosaville, with its three pools, jumping pillow and playground. Guests also love the versatile RACV Noosa Resort and its numerous pools, waterslides and tennis courts.

For a wildlife experience, hop on a ferry and travel to the eco-friendly Senses Noosa North Shore . Surrounded by 16 hectares of native bushland, the beautiful architect-designed property blends indoor and outdoor living and offers three stunning pools and a spa. Guests can even spot kangaroos and rainbow lorikeets from shaded verandahs.

a beachfront swimming pool at Netanya Noosa — Gaze over Noosa Main Beach at Netanya Noosa. (Image: Lumea Photo)

Things to do on land

There’s no denying it, the main beach – with its creamy-coloured sand, consistent breaks and epic coastline views – is Noosa’s shining star attraction. Bordering this is the wildly popular Noosa National Park, where you can explore over 15 kilometres of walking tracks, including options like the Coastal Walk, Tanglewood Walk and Palm Grove Walk.

A short stroll away is busy Hastings Street, which is full of life during the day and long into the night. Enjoy a little shopping, a late brunch, dinner out and a cocktail as the sun goes down.

Climb onto a fully electric tuk tuk with Noosa e-TukTuk to get an insider’s tour of the region. For a more in-depth exploration, book a bespoke tour with Joel’s Journeys and head to the lush green hinterland, or discover the rugged landscapes of Great Sandy National Park with Sunny Jeeps to spend the day with the wind in your hair and sand underfoot.

woman enjoying the view after hiking through Noosa National Park, noosa in winter — Take in views of the beautiful Noosa Hinterland. (Image: Demy Gavin)

Things to do in the water

Noosa isn’t just about the beach, the national parks and shopping; one of the most popular ways to embrace winter is to explore on water.

You could brave the waves on a surfboard, explore the languid Noosa River on a stand-up paddleboard or even head to the Noosa Everglades for a day adventuring on a boat, canoe or kayak.

Enjoy the winter sunsets aboard the newly launched HV Stillwater , a luxury, hybrid-powered catamaran that glides silently along Noosa’s waterways. You can also book a table on the only floating restaurant on the river – Noosa Cruiser – and dig into freshly cooked cuisine.

For a little more adventure, head out with Kingfisher Safari Co and cruise around the Noosa River Inlet and Lake Cootharaba. Or search for whales and dolphins (from June to September) on a small charter boat tour with WhaleSongs Noosa ; with an onboard researcher to explain what you’re seeing, as well as a hydrophone, you’ll be able to listen to the haunting songs of some of the world’s biggest animals while enjoying a winter’s day in the sun.

women kayaking through Noosa everglades noosa in winter — Explore the gorgeous Noosa Everglades. (Image: Emily Redfern)

Book your winter getaway in Noosa at visitnoosa.com.au.

10 best trails for hiking in Brisbane (no matter your skill level)