Sunsine Coast Hiking Route: Six Mountains in One Day

Travel used to be simple: photographs in front of famous monuments or tasting the local cuisine. Now we need to be the fastest, walk the longest, or climb the highest for the ultimate bragging rights.

Put your body on the line and go through a guided tour to climb six Sunshine Coast Mountains in only one day. Experientia Sunshine Coast is the only tour company that provides such an adventure. With the guides Melinda Bingley and Blase Grinner taking you from mountain to mountain, this will test all your limits.

Are you ready?

The Tour Guides

Experientia Sunshine Coast — You’ll be guided up the mountains by two extremely experienced hikers, Blase Grinner and Melinda Bingley.

If there were ever a poster child for personal challenges it would be the woman who is following close behind me, Melinda Bingley. When she reached Santiago de Compostela (Spain), 27 days into her solo pilgrimage along the Camino de Santiago she still didn’t feel done and hiked onwards to Muxia – another 118.5 kilometres.

She’s trekked through the Kokoda, scaled Mount Kilimanjaro and hiked to Everest Base Camp. Meanwhile, on her days off she likes to climb Mount Tibrogargan – the hulking ‘gorilla’ of the Glass House Mountains – solo, regularly.

For the past 10 years, Bingley has been helping her personal training clients overcome challenges – their own inner Camino – even if that’s just running 10 minutes on a treadmill without stopping. Now, with her partner, Blase Grinner, they’ve made their favourite outdoor adventures into active escape packages under Experientia.

Stop 1: Wild Horse Mountain

The sunrise is glorious from atop Wild Horse Mountain.

The trek is starting at the smallest of the Glass House Mountains (blessed) with Wild Horse Mountain. The tip of the summit will give you a western view of the Sunshine Coast, with panoramic views of the Pumicestone Passage, as well as Bribie and Moreton Islands. The only way up is via a steep 700-metre paved pathway, which is the easier of routes on this journey.

Height: 123m

Distance (return): 1.4 kilometres

Stop 2: Mount Beerburrum

Mount Beerburrum is almost an identical hike to that of Wild Horse Mountain. The steep walkway winds through rainforest and eucalyptus woodlands. If you’re feeling a bit sluggish there are seats along the way to get a quick rest in. South-Eastern Queensland is the setting for the view and boy, it sure is pretty. But this stop is definitely a calf-burner.

Height: 150m

Distance (return): 1.4 kilometres

Stop 3: Mount Ngungun

Now that you’ve gotten the smaller mountains out of the way (phew!) Mount Ngungun (pronounced Noo Noo) is not out here to play. Wind up through the man-made path and you’ll be zipped straight into forestry of floral plant life. Beautiful ferns and Aussie bush will line the walkway to the top. From there you’ll be able to see a close-up view of Mount Tibrogargan, an ancient volcano that dried up 27 million years ago.

Height: 253m

Distance (return): 2.8 kilometres

Stop 4: Mount Cooroora

The highest mountain is here and we’re about the conquer it. Aptly named ‘The King of the Mountain’, this climb involves metal stairs, a chain to hold yourself up (very useful on the descent) and a bush trail. While you’re walking just cast your mind to the reward at the top, uninterrupted views of the Sunshine Coast’s vast hinterland.

Once you’ve reached the top, sit back and enjoy the deliciously pre-prepared snacks and lunch provided. Serving us icy-cold orange segments and latte-flavoured bliss balls for a little well-deserved nibble. Afterwards, we devoured organic falafel wraps and coconut water. This made the experience feel less boot camp and more five-star wellness retreat.

Height: 446m

Distance (return): 2 kilometres

Stop 5: Mount Ninderry

You’re almost there, just two more gruelling hikes to go. Mount Ninderry is tucked away in the inland of Coolum, and along the way, you’ll get to see the Maroochy River and the Pacific Ocean. The track has been recently upgraded so you won’t be free-climbing thankfully.

Generally, this mountain remains a bit forgotten, most of the visiting climbers tend to head straight for Mount Coolum, so this will be a little slice of serenity.

Height: 304m

Distance (return): 2.5 kilometres

Stop 6: Mount Coolum

Mount Coolum Sunshine Coast QLD — The final stop on the adventure, Mount Coolum

Right about now you’ll all feel pretty weary, but determined to push through and finish on a high. It’s quick and dirty, and the reward is an endless vista to the north and south drinking in the Sunshine Coast in its entirety.

Height: 203 metres

Distance (return): 3.2 kilometres

Final Thoughts

Our group made it through each climb and descent with time left over to rest and refuel. Samantha Lippiatt (Director of Health & Fitness Travel ) put it as, “You’ve got this huge goal that maybe once seemed impossible, that not only are you going to have passed, but then you’re going to have a once-in-a-lifetime trip as well."

Whenever I head towards Noosa I give Cooroora a nod; on the beach, I gaze to the top of Coolum and across to Ninderry. And when I’m driving towards Brisbane I give Beerburrum, Wild Horse and Ngungun all a wave. I can’t help but smile and a feeling of achievement washes over me.

Even though I’ve done some of these hikes before, everything has changed. I’m seeing with new eyes and a refreshed mindset. And there ain’t no mountain high enough to keep me from losing this high.

The Details

How to do it

Get up early and bring your emotional A-game. Experientia Sunshine Coast’s Six Mountains in One Day kicks off at 6 AM and includes transport to all summits, qualified and personable guidance and Brisbane, Queensland motivation, and delicious paleo snacks and lunch from local suppliers. The cost is $299 with a maximum of 10 people in the group.

Getting there

Jetstar, Qantas and Virgin Australia fly to Sunshine Coast Airport in Maroochydore from Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide. From Brisbane, it’s a 70-minute drive to Caloundra to meet your pick-up.

Staying there

Rumba Beach Resort puts you right on the waterfront at Caloundra with views over some of your conquests beyond the Pumicestone Passage. To stay among the mountains, sleep in a converted train carriage or church at Glass House Mountains Ecolodge .

Staying in the Sunshine Coast? Head here for our curated guide on everything you need to know.

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.

Sunshine Coast Hiking Route: Six Mountains in One Day