Brisbane’s Best Walking Trails and Hikes

Discover your next adventure without having to venture too far from the city.  The Brisbane region is full of lush native bush trails, wildlife, natural waters and stunning peaks and views – so get out there and explore, and still be home in time for dinner.  Here is our list of must-do walking trails and hikes near Brisbane:

Mt Coot-Tha

It almost goes without saying, but the Summit walk at Mt Coo-Tha is a must-do in Brisbane. And it’s practically in the city!  Every visiting friend and family member of a Brisbanite must undertake this rite of passage at least once, if not every time they visit.  Friends visiting from southern states? Show them how we like to start the day with this easy inclined 1.9km bushwalk leading to the ultimate city views with a well-earned breakfast.  Little ones or elderly in company?  You can always drive them straight to the finish line where the Summit restaurant awaits.

Walkabout Creek

At the other end of the spectrum is the challenging Holmans Break hike located at the Enoggera Reservoir.  This four-hour hike meanders through lush bushland hemming in the dam where you might be lucky enough to spot turtles in addition to the multitude of lizards and birds.  As well as the wildlife, you’ll find sweeping views of The Gap in this pocket of calm.

Springbrook National Park

Just an hour south of Brisbane is the incredibly proportioned Springbrook National Park, spanning 6500 hectares.  This park is home to the famous Twin Falls, a rewarding end to a four kilometre wander through the leafy greens.  Don’t miss the Canyon lookout on your way home, and pay attention to the ground dwellers too for some pleasing glimpses of native fauna.  There are many trails to try in this enormous park, so make your pick and you’ll want to return again and again.

Lamington National Park

Beyond the city traffic, on SEQ’s doorstep is the World Heritage listed Lamington National Park.  Head for Canungra Creek for a variety of trails, a large picnic area and winery to visit on the way home at O’Reilly’s Canungra Valley.  Travel south to find the Moran’s Falls, a picturesque 80m waterfall – that will make the schlep of even the most reluctant hiker worthwhile – and if the weather’s right, jump in for a dip!

D’Aguilar National Park

Out past Mt Glorious and Samford is the D’Anguilar National Park at Mt Nebo.  For a two hour trip, take the Morelia walking track for a 6km walk to the Mt Nebo lookout, where you’ll find your reward of stunning views of the Samford Valley and eastward.  For endurance trainers or those who want to spend more time in the wet eucalyptus forest, take the 17km Cabbage Tree Range Loop.  Lose yourself in the beauty here but take care not to get lost in the wilderness.  Make sure you take a good map and plenty of water.

Mt Gravatt

The origin of the hilly suburb and university campus namesakes is worth an explore now and then.  Follow a trek from the base to summit to discover Mt Gravatt in an easy 3km round trip.  There are loads of well sign-posted tracks, and parking at the Gertrude Petty Place Picnic Area.  Bring your pooch or your bicycle and take in the peaceful quiet and solitude.=

Mt Warning

As I’ve said before, if you’re no newbie to hiking and love the rush of fresh air, the sense of achievement and the breathtaking views that the wilderness offers at these altitudes, the five-hour Summit Track at Mt Warning is one for you.  Experience the unique panoramic views stretching from the Gold Coast to Byron Bay, and if you’re early, a bonus: an amazing sunrise to eclipse all others.

Inspired by these adventures?  Now’s the perfect weather to get your friends, family or fur baby together and head for one of these bush walks to get back in touch with nature.

Image: @naturallysoph