Mt Coot-tha Summit Lookout – How to get there & Things to do!
The Mount Coot-tha Lookout rises 287 metres above sea level (226 metres high) and is the highest peak in the Taylor ranges near Brisbane. Its FREE to visit and a favourite destination for locals and tourists, providing a stunning vista across Brisbane.
With over 25 years of living in Brisbane, it’s been a favourite of mine as my daily hike, with hundreds of visits over the years. Therefore, todays blog will look into how to get there and the best things you can do there.
This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission. Please read my disclaimer, T&C’s & privacy policy here.
How to get to Mount Coot-tha Summit Lookout
The Mount Coot-tha Lookout is located a mere 7 kilometres from the CBD. It’s a prominent landmark visible from most areas within the city and standing majestically west of Brisbane. Plus, It adjoins the suburbs of Chapel Hill, Toowong, Taringa, Bardon, and The Gap.
1. Drive up by Car
You can drive up Mt Coot-tha by car (Free Parking), via a scenic drive along Sir Samuel Griffith tourist road.
This is where it will wind its way around the mountain, twisting and climbing to the summit.
➡Find your favourite brand & compare prices for your Rental Car HERE
However, note that parking is limited during busy times and you might have to do a few rounds to find one! However, my biggest tip would be to find a space in the restaurant car park, away from the more obvious spaces.
2. Travel by Bus
By Brisbane Translink Bus, route 471, travels from Adelaide Street in Brisbane CBD to Mt Coot-tha every day. For Bus Service stops, times, and schedules, please visit Translink, or use their APP for accessing on your phone!
If you want to know about using the public Transport in Brisbane, you can click here for my YouTube. Under a new government scheme, the current fares will be 50 cents per person for a one-way journey.
3. Taxi/Uber
Travelling by Taxi (Call – 133222, 132227, 131008) or Uber will be the closest and more cost effective from Toowong Railway Station, or take just a bit longer from anywhere in the city.
This will cost somewhere between $15AUD and $30AUD, depending where you start from.
13 Best things to do at Mount Coot-Tha!
Personally, as a Brisbane local, I have been using the Summit Walking trail as my morning exercise for years. I love the heart starter first thing in the morning and the viewpoint reward at the end makes it one of the best lookouts around Brisbane.
1. Watch the Sunrise
If you’re looking for the best sunrise view in Brisbane, then this is your go-to place.
The sunrise colours can surround the city, along with its purple jacarandas (when in season), tall gums, and the hypnotic sounds of the cockatoos.
What makes a sunrise so special? Well, apart from it being a spectacle to watch, sunrise also allows adventure seekers to start their day off with a bang and, even better, get to see it after the Summit hike.
2. JC Slaughter Falls
The JC Slaughter Falls is definitely worth the hike (about 600m way one) but timing to see water coming down the falls, needs to be precise.
The small waterfall provides a tranquil, forested backdrop perfect for picnics, and walks during the summer months.
Generally, only a slight trickle can still be seen running down the falls. But, wait until there’s heavy rain, then you witness nature in full force!
Surprisingly, these waterfalls really come alive, showing off their beauty with water cascading over large rocks set among vibrant green foliage.
Tip: Make sure you use insect repellent here, I’m always getting bitten my mosquitos if I stand still too long.
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!
3. Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium
The Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium is located next to the Botanical Gardens.
It’s an immersive and educational attraction, which incorporates the magnificent Cosmic Skydome (a 12.5 metre diameter projection dome).
Additionally, everyone can marvel at incredible astronomy images captured by Astro-photographers from around the world. I think it’s an exciting venue to explore Brisbane’s night sky or please click here for their current shows and programs!
4. Mountain biking the Trails
The Mountain Bike Trails (while sometimes shared with walking tracks) contain winding paths and dips, and provide an exciting challenge for adventure seekers.
Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned veteran of the sport, there are options to suit every skill level.
On your ride, take in the stunning views of the surrounding rainforest and snap some photos at scenic vista points along the way. Some of these trails are also shared with horses and pedestrians.
5. Summit Walking Trail
The Summit Walking Trail is just over 2 kilometres long (one way) and is an alternative and healthy way to make your ascent to the lookout point.
Plus, feel safer with it being well maintained with easy walking path, and suitable for those with a moderate fitness level.
It’s one of the my favourite hikes in Brisbane, commencing at the JC Slaughter Falls Picnic Area (2nd car park) and arrives at the Mt Coot-Tha Lookout (after the roundabout).
It will take between 40 and 50 minutes one way, but obviously quicker on the way down.
6. Other Walking Trails
With names like the Mahogany Trail, the Ghost Hole Track & Simpsons Falls Track & Honeyeater Track, you will find a walk that will suit your abilities. T
hey also have the Currawong trail, which was renamed the Kokoda trail in honour of the Australian soldiers who marked the Kokoda Track during World War II.
For more information on these paths, Click here to download the walking trail guide!
7. Dine at the Summit Restaurant & Bar
The Summit Restaurant & Bar has recently been refurbished and offers up a variety of options for dining, whether it be lunch, afternoon tea, or dinner. In addition, you have the option of dining inside or relaxing outside in order to take in the views.
Facilities are available for group functions, special occasions, and birthdays, and they will even provide a cake if required. Christmas & New Year events are very popular, but you would be advised to book well in advance!
8. Grab a coffee at The Summit Café
Grabbing a coffee at the café, makes for that morning fix!
A quick stop-in for a bite to eat or a snack with fresh local ingredients, can make all the difference, especially when you’re on your feet all day.
It will give you the pick-me-up needed to enjoy the beautiful view of downtown Brisbane and let your worries drift away. Then, top it off with an ice cream while you take a quick break, and you have yourself one delicious treat that is sure to brighten your day.
Tip: Don’t want to coffee, then they have a menu available with snack food and other drinks!
9. Bring your own Picnic Lunch.
After trying some of the walking trails, seeing waterfalls and wildlife, you might like to add to the experience and bring your own picnic lunch.
Take advantage of the 9 picnic areas available, providing BBQs, toilets & tap water, and plenty of greenery to be enthused in nature.
10. Night time Lookout Point
Mount Coot-tha provides an unbeatable lookout point to capture the best of Brisbane City – especially at night! So, it’s lucky that the lookout point can be accessed 24 hours hour a day and you can snap those amazing Instagram shots anytime.
11. Botanic Gardens
Located at the foot of Mt Coot-tha, the Botanic Gardens is Free to enter and a magnificent area cover 52 hectares. This include Japanese Gardens, Bonsai House, Fern House, and Cactus. You will also enjoy the coolness of the Australian Rainforest and the Exotic Rainforest.
Pick or choose certain collections, or bring some good walking shoes to wander around the gardens. It’s open from 8am-5pm daily, so you can plan your perfect outing.
12. Tropical Display Dome
The large, distinctive Tropical Display Dome is definitely worth checking out in the Botanic Gardens.
It’s a giant geodesic structure made of metal and glass that creates a delightful climate-controlled space, perfect for exploring the beauty of tropical plants and flowers.
The tropical dome features stunning exotic foliage, stunning water features, fish, and birds singing above your head, all in a picturesque, light-filled setting.
13. The Library
The Library is located within the gardens, but, you will not find a general collection.
Instead, this library hosts a special books about astronomy and botany to reflect the surrounding installations. The opening times are generally 10am to 3 or 4 pm every day, and admission is free.
Can you take dogs?
Yes, your allowed to take your dog to both the Mount Coot-Tha Lookout and walking with them on the trails all over the mountain!
But, important to remember that they must be kept on a lead at all times, As well as always picking up after them! This ensures their safety and for the other visitors while also protecting the wildlife.
Interesting Facts & History Facts!
- In 1927, Mount Coot-tha was graced by the visit of the Duke and Duchess of York, who would later become King George VI and Queen Elizabeth.
- It was originally called One Tree Hill after one large Eucalypt Tree at the top. When the aboriginal people came to the area to collect ‘ku-ta’ (honey) from a native bee, it was changed to Honey Mountain.
- During World War II, Mount Coot-tha played a strategic role when the United States Seventh Fleet occupied the mountain as a magazine depot.
- The site has seen various developments, including the erection of four television network towers in the 1960s, which are still a significant feature today.
- In 1995, Mount Coot-tha Lookout was placed on the permanent heritage register, recognizing its cultural and historical significance to Brisbane and its communities.
Wrap up!
Thanks for reading this blog post today on the Mount Coot-tha Lookout in the Queensland capital of Brisbane, and I hope you found the information you were looking for. However, if you’re still researching, please dive deeper into Brisbane posts HERE for inspiration.
- Brisbane at night, Fun things to see and do
- Skip the Brisbane Airtrain: Save Using my Airport Hack
- Closest Motels/Hotels to Brisbane Airport
- Best Day Trips from Brisbane & South East Queensland
- Best Areas to Stay in Brisbane: Neighbourhood Breakdown
- Best Free Things to do in Brisbane
- Best Things to do at Southbank Brisbane
- 5 Day Brisbane Itinerary in South East Queensland
