31 Fun Walking Trails & Hikes Near Brisbane With Map!

If you’re based in Brisbane or planning a visit, you might be surprised by how many incredible walking and hiking trails are right on the city’s doorstep. From short scenic strolls to challenging summit climbs, with some a short drive away in the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast hinterlands.

The tricky part for first-timers is figuring out where to start. With so many trails spread across national parks, mountain ranges, and coastal areas, it can feel overwhelming to choose which walks suit your time, fitness level, or sense of adventure.

Having explored ALL of these trails myself, I’ve pulled together a complete guide with a MAP to make your planning easier. From Brisbane’s city-side walks to iconic hinterland hikes, this post will give you everything you need to find the perfect trail for your next adventure.

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Best Places to Hike near Brisbane & Map

Matt and I have been hiking in the region for more than 25 years. So, whether you’re a seasoned hiker, or just getting your feet wet in the outdoors, Brisbane & Southeast Queensland offers plenty of options to get out and explore!

⏱️ Short on Time?

So what are my Favourites? Well, if your short on time and out of everything mentioned in the list today, here are my “Top 7 Hikes” around Brisbane, Gold Coast & Sunshine Coast:

• 1. Mt Coot-tha Summit Lookout Hike (Brisbane) – The city’s most iconic hike, with panoramic views over Brisbane.
• 2. Natural Bridge (Gold Coast) – Famous for its cave waterfall and glow worms at night.
• 3. Burleigh Heads National Park (Gold Coast) – A coastal trail with ocean views and rainforest sections.
• 4. Kondalilla Falls Circuit (Sunshine Coast) – A popular hinterland hike leading to a large waterfall and swimming hole.
• 5. Mount Ngungun (Sunshine Coast) – One of the Glass House Mountains’ easiest and most rewarding summit hikes.
• 6. Noosa National Park (Sunshine Coast) – A coastal walk with turquoise bays, wildlife spotting, and headland lookouts.
• 7. Mount Coolum (Sunshine Coast) – A steep but short climb with incredible 360-degree views over the coast and hinterland.

Need help finding them all, then please click here for my specially pinned map on todays selection, to open or apply directions from your location.

If this has you intrigued, then please read on for more detailed information and plenty more attractions to see.

➡Brisbane City & Outer Suburbs!

1. Mt Coot-tha Summit Lookout Hike

One of the best things to do at Mount Coot-tha is try out one of the 50 different hikes to suit almost everyone. These vary from Short Hikes at a few hundred metres, to longer hikes and joining several trail together. Even novice options to advanced ones that challenge your limits.

Personally, if you’re after views or a lookout across Brisbane city, then you can’t miss the Summit Track, which starts from JC Slaughter Falls and ends at the gorgeous Lookout point over the city.

I’ve actually done this one over 200 times, and the views can change throughout the year.

2. Gateway Bridge Walk

Not a regular hike that everyone would choose and is often used for views or even a cheap way to get from the north side to the south side. The Gateway Bridge Hiking trail is only a small 5-kilometre return walk, or you can find a lot of people riding their bikes.

You can view boats or jet skis travelling along the River, container-carrying ships being unloaded, or watch the sunrise over the water in the early mornings. You get glass windows to look through, plus water stations and resting points along the way.

The entrance point on the north side is Lavarack Ave in Eagle Farm. From the Southside, you will need to go to the Queensport Rocks Park in Murarrie.

3. Mount Gravatt

Mount Gravatt Outlook reserve and very similar to Mount Coot-tha, But on a different side of the City. IT’s home to koalas, echidnas, gliders and more than 75 species of birds.

This includes the Toohey Forest Park which offer heaps of walking tracks with two of my favourites being the Nathan Ridge Track at 2.5 kilometres and the Summit Track at 1.2 kilometres.

The views at the lookout are good, but I often find a bit restrictive with Trees. But, you can always head up there for a coffee or snack at the café.

4. King Island, Wellington Point

Have you ever walked to an Island? Well, this is unique experience can be done getting to King Island, just off the coast of Wellington Point.

It’s only a very short 2-kilometre return hike, and most of the locals use it for their daily exercise, weekend hangouts, or somewhere to walk the dog.

What’s interesting, though, is you can only do this walk at low tide! This means low tide can bring some exploration for the kids with crabs in the mangroves or finding the local birds on the island itself. 

Read More here: Best Free Things to do in Brisbane

5. Kangaroo Point Cliffs

Kangaroo Point Cliffs is a remarkable spot overlooking the Brisbane River. Through its rocky steep cliffs, many locals and tourists use the stairs to exercise or just to admire the views while walking the street.

The bottom of the cliffs is also an option and walking along the waters edge. Find the many Water Dragons and other birds as you walk from Captain Burke Park all the way into South Brisbane! 

Or using it in conjunction with the Bridge crossings around the city

6. Sandgate

The Sandgate Foreshore is one of my favourite go to spots for an afternoon stroll, offering plenty of opportunities to get out and exercise on the waterfront.

You can easily spend hours walking around here, with the smooth pathways winding around the entire length of the coast.

It’s also popular amongst dog owners who can bring their four-legged companions along for exercise. It’s also for those passionate about fishing, and you’ll often see wind surfers in the distance. 

7. Redcliffe

Get that little bit further out of the city and venture to Redcliffe with walks along the foreshore and esplanade. This stretches from Woody Point, all the way to Scarborough and out on one of the jetties.

Along with the fantastic views and plenty of activities to see and do. You can walk up to 10 km, taking in sights like shops, cafes, and another cool swimming spot at the Settlement Cove Lagoon.

Do you need help planning your trip to Queensland? Book a one-on-one consultation call with me, to get your questions answered & personalised help!

8. Arbour Walkway

The Arbour Walkway is about 1 kilometre long, but what it lacks in size it makes up in beauty and originality. It’s a scenic walking path in the Southbank precinct and a gateway to many of the inner city’s most popular tourist hotspots and attractions.

This ranges from botanic delights, man-made beaches, foodie hotspots to modern music venues. 

Visits throughout the year can change the walkway dramatically, especially with special events and nightly festivals. And views along the way are captivating with either fairy lights, Japanese lanterns, or seasonal flowers. 

Read More here: Brisbane at night, Fun things to see and do

9. Walkabout Creek Walking Loop

The Walkabout Creek Loop at Enoggera Reservoir is ideal if you were looking for a fun and easy 5-kilometre loop around one of Brisbane’s sections of bushland?

It’s a great walk that will take about an hour to complete as you wander through peaceful surroundings, spotting birds and other wildlife.

However, when you finally make it to the finish line (or starting point), you will be rewarded with one of the best places in Brisbane to go swimming. 

10. Brisbane City walking Loops

The Brisbane City Walking Loops stop or start at various points throughout the city. I’m not sure if you’re aware but there are 14 bridges crossing the river and at least 9 of them are relatively close to the CBD.

These loops allow you to pick and choose the length and time of your path and explore the different parts of the CBD. This includes Brisbane City, Kangaroo Point, New Farm, South Brisbane, and Southbank.

The Kangaroo Point Cliffs Walk provides panoramic views of the skyline while weaving through parks and pathways. Nearby, the New Farm Riverwalk takes you over the Brisbane River on a floating walkway, with stunning views of the Story Bridge and cityscape.

For a quieter escape, the City Botanic Gardens loop offers a peaceful stroll through Brisbane’s oldest urban garden, while the Mangrove Walk at North Quay combines a modern riverside boardwalk with an educational focus on the city’s unique mangrove ecosystems.

The experience varies depending on the direction taken, so it feels like a new journey every time. You can even combine it with the City Cat public Ferry transport, or the Free Kitty Kat Line.

11. Boondall Wetlands

The Boondall Wetlands cover about 1500 hectares of tidal flats, mangroves, salt marshes, melaleuca wetlands, and grasslands. Getting around is easy with the help of boardwalks and bitumen pathways that guide you through the diverse ecosystem.

Some of the trails are for both Bike and Walking, so just be on the lookout. There is also an information centre located at the main entrance near the entertainment centre.

I have used the Bikeways a lot too, but mosquitoes can get pretty bad in certain weather conditions, so apply repellent before you go.

Something very unique and rarely occurs is when the water turns a light pink shade. This is due to a combination of algae and bacteria that thrive in salty conditions.

➡Gold Coast Region!

12. Moran’s Falls

Nestled in the heart of Lamington National Park, Queensland, Moran’s Falls stands tall at an impressive height of 80 metres with a single majestic drop.

The track is a 3.7 km return route, offering hikers a moderate (Grade 4) challenge.

It takes approximately 1.5 hours, allowing ample time to soak in the lush surroundings of the rainforest. Plus you have different trails that go to the lookout points and allow you to step onto the falls itself.

Conveniently, you can park at O’Reilly’s Rainforest retreat with a standard vehicle and pass by the health spa along the way. You can watch my video here on Moran’s hiking Trail.

13. Elabana Falls

Elabana Falls is another favourite of mine, but it is a little more difficult to get to. It’s also located in the heart of Lamington National Park and the return walk covers a distance of about 7.6 kilometres and typically takes around 2–3 hours to complete.

If you starting out first thing in the morning, I suggest watching out for the spider webs crossing the track. These can often catch you by surprise, but watch for the famous lamington lobster.

Apart from that, the hike there is mostly downhill, with the return that will get your heart pumping. The Falls are not the easiest to access, having to rock hop over boulders, but definitely worth it for views and serene surroundings.

You can watch my vide here on the Elabana Hiking Trail.

➡  Book Tours to Lamington NP HERE with GYG, or HERE with Viator.

14. O’Reilly’s Tree Top Walk

Did you know that the Gondwana Rainforest consists of the First Tree Top Walk that was built in Australia? Then this gives you another reason to visit the Lamington National Park.

The Tree Top or Booyong Walk is a shorter and more family-friendly trail that starts from O’Reilly’s Rainforest retreat and accommodation.

You embark on 60-metre-long suspension bridges, climb towers that top the trees, and admire the rainforest floor and wildlife from above. You can watch my video HERE from the Tree Top Walk.

15. Natural Bridge

Springbrook National Park is still part of the UNESCO Gondwana region. There’s no better way to experience the park than by hiking around the Natural Bridge Waterfall.

➡  Compare Natural Bridge Tours HERE with GYG, or HERE with Viator.

The track passes through subtropical and temperate rainforests, giving visitors a glimpse at all of the lush vegetation.

As you make your way along the 1 kilometre loop track, you’ll stop to view the Falls from above and below.

Plus, one added benefit of this cave and finding thousands of Glow worms.

16. Purling Brook Falls

The Purling Brook Falls hiking trail is a 4-kilometre loop that takes you through more lush rainforest of the Springbrook National Park.

When the weather has been especially wet, or the temperature rises during summer, the falls become a fantastic sight as water rashes over the cliff into a long drop. 

Any time of year is excellent for this hike, but come prepared with extra water and supplies if visiting during summer, as it can get quite hot. Also, take your time, as there’s no need to rush when surrounded by this beauty!

17. Curtis Falls Track

The Curtis Falls Track in Tamborine National Park has the most amazing sounds I’ve ever heard on a southeast Queensland trail.

This 1.1 kilometres return track is graded as Grade 3, offering a gentle yet engaging walk through a wet eucalypt forest. It features gum trees, striking basalt columns and serene rock pool at the end with Curtis Falls.

But know, this waterfall isn’t for swimming.

Along the way, visitors might encounter an array of wildlife, including fish, eels, basking turtles, and even the enchanting glow-worms if you’re around in the evening

My biggest tip would be to arrive as early as possible to secure parking, as the area can get really crowded.

18. Burleigh Heads National Park

Burleigh Heads National Park is situated on the southern Gold Coast area. The Headland walk is a 2.3-kilometre loop track that promises an exhilarating journey through ancient eucalypt forests.

It’s a moderate difficulty, suitable for most fitness levels, with well-maintained paths, some inclines, and a series of steps.

One of my favourite highlights is the walk to Tumgun Lookout, which offers stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. You can see Tallebudgera Creek from here and even whales breaching in the distance from June to November.

➡Hikes Off the coast!

19. The Gorge walk

The Gorge Walk is located on North Stradbroke Island, and is one of the most exciting walks you’ll ever experience in the area. It’s a 1.2-kilometre track through gorges, bushland, and topped off with coastal headlands views.

➡  Compare Straddie Day trips HERE with GYG, or HERE with Viator

This leisurely-paced walk allows plenty of time to enjoy the stunning scenery and is conveniently built with an easy boardwalk path. Plus, Straddie worth seeing from June to October, with the added benefit of whale watching and seeing them breach in the distance. 

20. Harpers Rock

Harpers Rock is located on Morton Island and is known as a spectacular geological marvel that will astound any sightseer. Its vivid sand formations and peculiar rock sculptures appear as if they were formed on an alien planet! 

➡  Find Moreton Day trips HERE with GYG, or HERE with Viator.

To ensure an enjoyable experience, wear closed-in shoes to keep your feet comfortable, as the terrain can be quite uneven. Options for accommodation are with Beach Camping (if you have the gear) or by staying at the famous Tangalooma Island Resort. 

➡Sunshine Coast Region!

21. Bribie Island

As we start to get further out of the city, it’s worth checking out Bribie Island. You can stroll the waterfront of Pumicestone Passage or use the Bribie Island Bridge to meander back and forth from the mainland.

Along the way, keep your eyes peeled, and you’ll spot jet skis and boats from all directions. On the island itself, you’ll find crystal clear waters begging for a dip on those hotter days, heaps of attractions, or restaurants perfect for relaxing after a big day out in the sun. 

My favourite time of day is at Sunrise or sunset and use the daytime for swimming at the beach.

22. Kondalilla Falls Circuit

The Kondalilla National Park is alive with native animals, including wallabies, platypi, goannas, and many different species of frogs and birds. You can try the 4.7-kilometre Kondalilla Falls Circuit hike & swimming hole, which will see you exploring winding wooden pathways and towering trees.

What’s great about this hike is you can enjoy a quick dip in the freshwater rock pools of Skene Creek, perfect for cooling down on a hot summer’s day. Above all, being ‘family friendly’ with some rock stairs and a formed path.

23. Mount Ngungun

If you want the ultimate views over the Sunshine Coast, then you can’t pass up the summit hike to Mount Ngungun. This would have to be one of my personal favourites and hugely popular with the locals for weekly exercise. 

The track itself is only 2.8 kilometres return, and you’ll need a maximum of 2 hours to climb ( I took about 1.5 hours to complete). The path is nicely formed but does have a lot of rocky stairs, and it’s the perfect heart starter with increased elevation.

24. Mount Beerburrum

The Mount Beerburrum Summit Hike in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland is an exciting and challenging adventure. I can’t stress the word “Challenging” enough, as the constant incline can turn a few people away.

However, the scenic beauty of the area from the Fire Lookout platform, combined with the very steep and heart-pumping terrain, makes it very rewarding.

Although the return track is 3.5 kilometres, you can complete it in about 1.5 hours and I always find it better first thing in the morning.

25. Noosa National Park

The entire Noosa Coastal walk is impressive, but you can single out sections for shorter walks like visiting Tea Tree Bay Beach, the lookout point to see Dolphins, Hell Gate, Alexandria Bay and finding the Noosa fairy pools.

These can all range from 30 minutes to a couple of hours and some hikers even walk to the end at Sunshine Beach to catch a bus back to where they started.

However, keep in mind if you want to swim in the rock pools, you need to visit around Low tide. Apart from that, this has one of the best coastal trails in the area.

26. Mount Coolum

One of the most popular treks on the Sunshine Coast is the Mount Coolum Summit Track and one of the more recent ones that Matt and I have completed.

It’s renowned for its challenging climb to the summit, but well worth it for beachside views. The track itself is a 1.6-kilometre return hike that usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to complete, depending on your pace.

While the distance may seem short, the trail’s steep ascent makes it a moderately difficult trek, suitable for hikers with a good level of fitness.

Get in early and complete it before the day heats up too much, but this is also a busy time and much harder for parking.

27. Booloumba Falls

Booloumba falls is one of my favourite swimming spots, but also harder to get to, needing a four wheel drive vehicle. It’s about a 3-kilometre return walk and relatively easy that we have completed it in slip-on shoes.

Walk beneath the towering canopies of ancient trees, and feeling the cool, damp air filled with the scent of earth and foliage. The trail leads you to a couple of rock pools, where water cascades down rock faces, perfect for a refreshing pause and a brilliant day trip from the city.

28. Wild Horse Mountain

Wild Horse Mountain Lookout is a must-visit nestled among the tall pine trees between Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast. The trail is a 1.4 kilometres return journey, taking approximately 30 minutes to complete.

The highlight of this walking trail is seeing the volcanic Glass House Mountains in the distance.

The path is well-maintained and clearly marked, ensuring a pleasant experience. As you reach the summit, you’ll be greeted with a stunning 360-degree views, which is ideal around sunset with the light disappearing behind the mountains.

➡Scenic Rim & Stanthorpe!

29. Queen Mary Falls

Located in Queensland’s Main Range National Park, the Queen Mary Falls is one of my favourite waterfalls in Queensland. The top section is easy to follow, short, and suitable for almost everyone.

Within minutes, you’re gifted with a lookout point, the raging waterfall sounds, and a mist covering the entire valley. 

The entire loop hike meanders down into the canyon below and the bottom of the waterfall. Summertime is especially great for a visit here, with fresh air and clear blue skies that really make the deep gorges stand out in beautiful contrast.

30. The Pyramid Hike

As we travel further west to a place called Stanthorpe, you’re introduced to a granite-built region with hiking in the Girraween National Park. The first today is called the Pyramid Hike, which is another favourite of mine.

This stunning 3.6 kilometre return trail includes a stretch taking you through the serene wilderness, climbing up and over huge boulders until you reach a massive granite peak – yes, it’s The Pyramid! 

The last section is steep and definitely exercises your quads, but when you reach the top, the jaw-dropping views are well worth it.

31. Sphinx and Turtle Rock Hike

The Sphinx and Turtle Rock hike provides an exciting natural experience within a few kilometres of walking. Never in my life have I heard so many Cicadas, and they were so incredibly loud and mesmerising. 

The walk begins with a gradual ascent, which eventually leads to some steep areas with stairs to climb. At the peak of turtle rock ( If you climb up), you will inevitably be impressed by the expansive panorama of ancient volcanic mountains and valleys.

How to get around?

When it comes to transport to Brisbane Hiking spots, then car hire is your best option (or having your own car) to get around. This gives you the flexibility on location and time, primarily when no other choice exists.

While some tours are available to the area, they might not let you complete the full hike as desired. But, they might check out some of the lookout points.

➡Find your favourite brand & compare prices for your Rental Car HERE

Public transport is always limited to the best hiking trails in and around Brisbane. However, you will definitely find some options available closer to the city-based tracks.

Wrap up!

Thanks for reading today’s blog post on the best places to hike in and around Brisbane. I hope you found the information you were looking for. But, if you’re still researching, please find my other Brisbane information here for inspiration and planning.

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• 5 Day Brisbane Itinerary in South East Queensland
• Closest Motels/Hotels to Brisbane Airport
• Brisbane Vs Gold Coast – Which one is better to visit?
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• Things to see on a Brisbane to Cairns Road trip
• Sydney Vs Brisbane – Which is Better to visit?