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

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

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

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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.

Ancient rainforest, coral reefs, laid-back luxury and adrenaline-fuelled adventures, Port Douglas offers a side of Australia unlike anywhere else.

Mornings in Port Douglas start with a beautiful symphony. As day breaks, the lyrical calls of Rainbow Lorikeets, cries of the sulphur-crested cockatoos and rhythmic Coral Sea waves create a colourful soundtrack for Tropical North Queensland’s sunrise. If there’s one place in Australia that captures the sweet spot between luxury and laid-back living, it’s here. This small, seaside village has just enough glamour to feel indulgent and just enough barefoot charm to make you feel like you’ve escaped the chaos of everyday life.

Whether you’re diving into the warm waters on Four Mile Beach or enjoying an ice-cold drink and a Barramundi burger overlooking the marina, Port Douglas offers more than just a seaside holiday.

Local gourmet goodies

Nautilus restaurant port douglas — Nab an open-air table beneath a canopy of palms at Nautilus. (Image: Toby Stanley)

The tropical food scene in Port Douglas is influenced by the rich agricultural regions surrounding it, with fresh produce arriving daily from nearby farms and tropical growers across the region. At Nautilus – a hidden, palm-fringed restaurant just off Macrossan Street – the menu showcases regional flavours. Its Signature Nautilus Mango Soufflé is a long-time favourite.

Nearby, Hi-Tide by the Beach offers a relaxed way beachfront dining experience overlooking the Coral Sea. From crocodile and lemon myrtle spring rolls to wild barramundi and a volcanic hot stone steak, taste the diverse flavours of Tropical North Queensland.

Visitors can also explore the region’s local markets. Port Douglas Markets offers artisan products and tropical treats each Sunday, while the Saturday morning Mossman Markets is the place for fresh local produce from the surrounding farming community.

Just outside of Port Douglas, Ospreys at Thala Beach Nature Reserve has one of the region’s most memorable dining outlooks. Perched on a small headland between rainforest and sea, take in views across the coastline and mountains while you dine. The seasonal menu highlights local seafood, tropical fruits and native ingredients sourced from across the region

Travelling with young humans

Hartley's Crocodile Adventures port douglas — Catch a spectacle at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures. (Credit: TTNQ)

Port Douglas caters for all types of visitors, but families especially love the walkable streets, wide beaches and range of activities nearby. An attraction that never fails to delight all ages is Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures – a wildlife sanctuary and ecotourism park with some of the region’s largest crocodiles. Here, you’ll also find koalas, cassowaries, turtles and other Australian wildlife.

For something slower paced, sit back and enjoy a tranquil visit aboard the historic Lady Douglas River Cruise. Glide along the calm waters of Dickson Inlet, keeping an eye out for birdlife and estuarine crocodiles along the mangroves. Children can take part in activity sheets onboard and even have the opportunity to help steer the boat.

This region is also deeply connected to Indigenous culture, and a Dreamtime Walk is one way to learn about it. Discover the stories, traditions and connection to Country of the local Kuku Yalanji people from local Indigenous guides, while exploring the rainforest and waters of Mossman Gorge.

Exploring local waterways

Coya Beach port douglas — Walk along the peaceful Cooya Beach. (Credit: TTNQ)

Join a guided tour with Walkabout Cultural Adventures to explore the peaceful Cooya Beach. Led by deeply knowledgeable local Aboriginal guides, try seasonal local bush tucker, take in the beautiful landscape and gain insight into the history, culture and traditions of this land.

Surrounded by dense canopy and ancient species, nearby Hartley’s Creek Falls are at their finest after rain. These beautiful falls are reached via a lush rainforest walk that winds through creek crossings, towering greenery and moss-covered boulders.

To swim where the locals swim, head out past local farms and into the foothills of the Mossman River to Shannonvale – a low-key freshwater swimming hole surrounded by sun-warmed rocks and deep pockets of clear water. It’s a quiet area to spend a few hours retreating from the world.

Adrenaline adventures

Take to the ocean with Sailaway Port Douglas. (Credit: TTNQ)

One of the most high-octane ways to enjoy the nature of Tropical North Queensland is white-water rafting down the impressive Barron River. With Grade two and Grade three rapids, expect plenty of splashing, some teamwork, and a few moments where everyone in the raft screams and laughs at the same time.

Join Back Country Bliss for the most unique floating experience you’ll ever encounter. Head into the rainforest and float along the serene Mossman River on your individual board, taking in the sights and sounds of the ancient landscape around you.

If you prefer ocean swimming, Sailaway Port Douglas explores the idyllic Low Isles and the outer reef on their snorkelling tours. Enjoy the Great Barrier Reef from above or below and look out for coral gardens, giant clams, colourful reef fish and, if you’re lucky, sea turtles.

For land-lovers, the Devil’s Thumb is a challenging but rewarding hike with incredible views over the coast and endless cane fields. This 10km return hike will take around six to eight hours, so leave a whole day and pack snacks!

Experiences that give back

Skyrail Rainforest Cableway port douglas experiences — See the rainforest from above on The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. (Credit: TTNQ)

With two UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites – the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics of Queensland rainforest region – it’s not surprising Tropical North Queensland is a hub for eco-tourism. The stunning Daintree Ecolodge was founded on the principles of minimising environmental impact, supporting the local community and teaching guests about the local Indigenous culture. Their elevated rainforest-style ‘bayans’ are tucked among the trees, bringing nature into every part of a guest’s stay.

Further down the coast, the luxury bungalows and treetop hideaways of Thala Beach Nature Reserve are dotted across 45 acres of protected headland, forest and beach. The property’s design intentionally preserves large areas of native vegetation and beachfront ecosystem, while conserving the surrounding habitat. The private beach and various swimming pools offer a cool retreat from the heat of the day, while the main lodge offers the perfect place to read and relax.

The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, a 7.5-kilometre cableway between Cairns and nearby Kuranda, has won multiple tourism and environmental awards. It’s also the first tourism attraction in the world to achieve Platinum EarthCheck Accreditation, for its long-term environmental management and sustainability initiatives.

Start planning your Port Douglas adventure at tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au.

Sunshine Coast Hiking Route: Six Mountains in One Day