Best Brisbane Walks To Explore The Great Outdoors

Soak up that year-round sunshine and legendary vistas along the greatest Brisbane walks.

Lush parklands, Zen-inducing trails and one heck of an inner-city river—the best Brisbane walks showcase the city’s prettiest characteristics. From sweeping views of the water-fronting CBD to secret strolls through incredible native bushland, there’s a tailored expedition for every pace. Grab your sunscreen and lace up tight as we share the city’s well-trodden standouts.

1. The Brisbane Riverwalk

strolling along the Brisbane Riverwalk in the New Farm section — The Brisbane Riverwalk stretches from New Farm to Howard Smith Wharves.

A floating pedestrian (and cycle-friendly) footbridge right over the Brisbane River, the Brisbane Riverwalk is a man-made marvel. Stretching 870 metres from New Farm to Howard Smith Wharves, it’s split into a people and a bike lane, making for seamless scooting, whatever your movement mode.

Expect uninterrupted views of Story Bridge and smooth terrain from start to finish, and don’t forget your hat. Jutting far beyond the riverbank’s trees, this glorious Brisbane walk isn’t sheltered.

Address: Enter at Riverview Court in New Farm or at Howard Smith Wharves in Brisbane City

2. Mount Coot-tha Summit Circuit

a family admiring views from Mount Coot-tha Lookout — Be rewarded with breathtaking views from Mount Coot-tha Lookout. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Get your sweat on at the Mount Coot-tha Summit Circuit. A sealed trail that rewards guests with extraordinary views from Mount Coot-tha Lookout, the Brisbane walk is challenging so you’ll need to be reasonably fit to get involved.

A 12-kilometre loop that’s largely uphill with one particularly steep and seemingly never-ending incline, you’ll be marching alongside a stream of exercisers and bikers.

Address: Enter via the JC Slaughter Falls carpark at the Mount Coot-tha Reserve, 200 Mount Coot-tha Road, Mount Coot-tha.

3. West End River Walk

the West End River Walk in Brisbane — Be hypnotised by tranquil waters along the West End River Walk. (Image: Brisbane Marketing)

Be hypnotised by tranquil waters along the West End River Walk. A Brisbane walk that’s popular with families, it’s dotted with several playgrounds as it extends four kilometres to the gallery-speckled cultural precinct of South Bank.

There are also picnic areas and plenty of grassy expanses to seize, as well as an off-leash dog park. And while the footpath is flat and easy to navigate (with one portion split into cycling and pedestrian lanes), you’ll be tempted to halt your adventure when you spy the sloped picnic benches that angle out towards the river.

Address: Enter via the Orleigh Park ferry terminal, corner Orleigh and Hoogley Streets, West End

4. Brisbane City Loop

people tackling the Brisbane City Loop — The Brisbane City Loop includes walking over the Victoria Bridge from the CBD to South Bank.

An always-bustling trail, the Brisbane City Loop stretches over the Victoria Bridge from the CBD to South Bank, providing great views of the cultural precinct and easy access to the famous, brightly hued BRISBANE sign out the front of the Queensland Performing Arts Centre.

Wander along the river at South Bank, past Streets Beach, one of the best kid-friendly things to experience in Brisbane, and along the Goodwill Bridge before returning to the CBD at Gardens Point Road.

Address: Enter via the Victoria Bridge at William Street, Brisbane City

5. Banks Street Reserve

For a total bushland immersion, head towards the Bank Street Reserve, a 30-odd-hectare forest that flows with beautiful flora and fauna. Wander the cooling oasis’ zigzagging pathways as the natural playground sings with diverse wildlife, including owls, rosellas, water dragons and kingfishers. Spotted gums run rife, as do big open grass patches perfect for kicking a ball or spreading a picnic across. Dogs are welcome but must remain on a leash.

Address: Enter via Banks Street, Alderley

6. Shorncliffe Walk

the Shorncliffe Pier in Brisbane — Stretch your legs all the way up to the Shorncliffe Pier. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Strapped for time? The 2.5-kilometre-return Shorncliffe Walk in Sandgate packs a punch for such a little stretch, boasting spectacular Moreton Bay views and proximity to coastal cafe culture. You’ll hug the Moreton Bay foreshore as it wraps around to Shorncliffe Parade and then Park Parade, home to a string of eateries and great coffee, before stretching your legs all the way up to the Shorncliffe Pier for even more sensational views.

Address: Enter where Sinbad Street turns into Allpass Parade, Sandgate

7. Submariners’ Walk Heritage Trail

Paying tribute to the Aussie and American submariners who were based in Teneriffe during World War II, the Submariners’ Walk Heritage Trail is a lovely river-fronting Brisbane walk steeped in history. While the water views are instantly soothing, there are also a handful of plaques and seating in the shape of navy vessels to take in. Cyclists are also welcome.

Address: Enter at the Teneriffe ferry terminal on Commercial Road, Newstead

8. Kangaroo Point River Walk

biking along the Kangaroo Point River Walk — Pedal your way along the scenic Kangaroo Point River Walk. (Image: Martin K Jacobsen)

Sheltered by overhanging trees, the Kangaroo Point River Walk is a scenic path to Brisbane’s CBD from one of the city’s most prestigious locales and best lookout spots.

You’ll wrap the Brisbane River all the way down as views of the Goodwill Bridge, South Bank, and the city skyline glisten from afar. This Brisbane walk is further beautified by a scattering of thought-provoking sculptures and a picnic area with a public barbecue.

Address: Enter at the Queensland Maritime Museum, 412 Stanley Street, South Brisbane

9. Boondall Wetlands’ Tabbil-ban dhagun Boardwalk

Be transported to another world inside the Boondall Wetlands in the city’s north-east, filled with mangroves, tidal flats, grasslands, eucalypt forest and salt marshes. There are several walking trails to choose but we love the Tabbil-ban dhagun Boardwalk for its deep immersion into mangrove central as it winds around Moreton Bay and Nudgee Creek. Bird life is strong in this sanctuary, so keep your eyes peeled for varieties in trees and stalking the tidal flats for their next meal.

Address: 31 Paperbark Drive, Boondall

10. Rocks Riverside Park Promenade

Located about 25 minutes from the CBD, Rocks Riverside Park is a hidden gem with one beautifully positioned promenade. Stretching out about 800 metres in length, the serene Brisbane walk provides glistening water views amid natural splendour, and once you’re done, there’s a water play area and barbecue facilities to help you lose complete track of time.

Address: 531 Seventeen Mile Rocks Road, Seventeen Mile Rocks

11. Daisy Hill Conservation Park’s Discovery Trail

a woman touching a koala at the Daisy Hill Koala Centre — Daisy Hill Conservation Park’s Discovery Trail protects the habitat of koalas.

A short but sweet Brisbane walk, the Discovery Trail in Daisy Hill Conservation Park snakes through a eucalypt forest to provide instant natural cooling on a hot day.

But best of all, you’ll bump into the Daisy Hill Koala Centre on the way, home to a handful of koalas and plenty of educational displays to remind you how timid and special our little bears truly are.

Address: Enter Daisy Hill Conservation Park’s Car Park 4, Daisy Hill Road, Daisy Hill

12. Gateway Bridge Walk

the Eat Street Northshore during the day — The Gateway Bridge Walk includes a stop at the buzzy entertainment precinct, Eat Street Northshore. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

You mightn’t think anything of the Gateway Bridge in Hamilton, a suburb famed for housing the buzzy entertainment precinct Eat Street Northshore, but if you venture out there one day, you’ll find a one-of-a-kind Brisbane walk.

A five-kilometre return stretch that’s best tackled if you’re quite fit, it features a steep incline dressed with mountainous views before returning you to ground level. If you’re pushing a pram, give this one a miss (or stay put at Queensport Rocks Park where the walk begins); however, cyclists tend to adore it.

Address: Enter at Queensport Rocks Park, at the end of Administration Road, Murarrie

Discover the best things to do in Brisbane.

From the moment you arrive in Moreton Bay, stunning natural vistas, fresh and tasty dining, history and more invite you to stay and play.

Untouched national park, mirror-like lagoons and endless stretches of beaches all make Moreton Bay experiences feel like you’ve stumbled across a secret Queenslanders collectively vowed not to tell. Yet it’s easily accessible. Explore further and discover hinterland farms, ancient rainforest, fresh seafood and more: there’s something on offer for every pace, interest and generation.

Just 20 minutes from Brisbane Airport, it’s hard to believe how underrated this Queensland getaway is. Here’s your ultimate guide to rediscover play with unmissable experiences in Moreton Bay.

1. G’Day Adventure Tours, Bribie Island

G’Day Adventure Tours’ Sea to Table Experience should be your first agenda item in Moreton Bay. Take a 4WD journey through the sandy tracks of Bribie Island’s beaches to the still, glassy waters of the island’s lagoons. Glide over perfect replicas of paperbarks and fluffy blue clouds mirrored in the lagoon waters in your kayak. Listen as native birdsong echoes around you.

Then, it’s on to Fort Bribie. During the Second World War, these concrete bunkers – now slowly being enveloped by the dunes – were the last line of defence for Moreton Bay.

End the day with a sun-dappled beach picnic of locally caught Queensland prawns and famous Moreton Bay bugs. As you head home, watch the dolphins playfully dart in and out of the surf.

2. Morgan’s Seafood at Scarborough

Right on the Scarborough Boat Harbour, you’ll find Morgan’s Seafood . Between the luxury yachts, you’ll also spot trawlers and fishermen delivering their day’s catch right to Morgan’s. The family-owned and operated spot is one of the best places to try the region’s eponymous Moreton Bay bug. Or, sample more of the area’s direct-from-the-boat seafood fresh at their oyster and sushi bar. If you’re lucky, your visit might coincide with a day they’ve caught tuna.

Picture fish caught that day, prepared and then served to you as fresh sashimi as the sun sets over the unique silhouette of the Glasshouse Mountains.

3. Woorim Beach, Bribie Island

On Bribie’s eastern coastline, you’ll find Woorim Beach : aka the closest surf beach to Brisbane. Find a place on the sand by the patrolled area or wander further south to find a quiet spot and while the day away between the shaded dunes, the pages of your book and the peaceful sound of rolling waves.

Ask any local where to grab lunch, and they’ll direct you to Bribie Island Surf Club Bistro . Tuck into a fresh, local seafood platter, just metres from the beach.

4. D’Aguilar National Park

D’Aguilar National Park is a 40,000-hectare slice of greenery that stretches from urban Brisbane right up to Woodford (home of the Woodford Folk Festival). The vast expanse of park is home to ancient rainforests, eucalypt forests and shaded swimming spots hidden within gorges and under waterfalls. The area is significant for the Jinibara and Turrbal people, with ceremonial bora rings and dreaming trails all found within the park.

Carve out some time in your itinerary to explore the park’s many trails. The Maiala day-use area is the perfect starting point for walks for all levels of ability.

5. Arcade Wine Bar

arcade wine bar moreton bay — Sit down to a menu inspired by Italy.

Opposite the Redcliffe Jetty and down a laneway, you’ll find an unassuming wine bar. Venture inside and quickly fall in love with Arcade Wine Bar , one of the region’s most beloved local haunts.

Owners Danilo and Matt have a combined 50 years of sommelier experience, which they have poured into the menu, styling and wine list. More than just a hole-in-the-wall wine bar, Arcade Wine is an enoteca (a wine repository), whose walls are lined with bottles upon bottles of Italian wine varietals from every corner of Italy.

Settle in with a wine and work your way through the menu inspired by Danilo’s native Italy: traditional meatballs, their quick-to-sell-out terrine, or a selection of Italian cheeses, charcuterie and arancini.

6. Wamuran & Loop Rail Trail

Away from the ocean, tucked in the hinterland, is the Wamuran & Loop Rail Trail . Perfect for cyclists or walkers, the trail was built to showcase the history of the Caboolture to Kilcoy rail corridor (last operating in 1964) and makes for the perfect family day out. The trail runs for 10.5km and connects Wamuran and Caboolture via an accessible path.

Pass through former railroad, bridges and shaded bushland as you cut from A to B. Plus, visit in winter for a detour along the way to one of the many pick-your-own strawberry farms.

7. Farm Visits

Beaches, mountains and history make an enticing combination. But Moreton Bay also brings hinterland, family-friendly farms to the table. Trevena Glen is one of the area’s most loved, with bunnies, ponies, sheep, alpacas (and more) available to visit for the kids. For the adults, book a horse-riding session and be treated to a grazing platter as you watch the sun set over the mountains of D’Aguilar National Park.

At White Ridge Farm , find camels, putt-putt, train and tractor rides and all kinds of animals. The entire farm is paved, making it accessible for all.

8. Miss Sprinkles

Miss Sprinkles Gelato moreton bay — Pick your scoop at Miss Sprinkles Gelato.

An ice cream at the beach is one of life’s most perfect pleasures. While in town, stop by Miss Sprinkles for the locals’ pick of homemade gelato on the Scarborough foreshore.

The gelato here is made the authentic Italian way and scooped up just across from the beach. Or, settle in at their kitschy pink wooden tables for traditional gelato in the sunshine. Aside from the homemade gelato, you’ll also find tarts, pies and even doggie gelato.

To start planning your Moreton Bay trip, or for more information, head to visitmoretonbay.com.au.

Notch up steps in style on the 12 best Brisbane walks