Search bushwalks Page 16

Starting from Christmas Creek Road, Lamington, this walk takes you to Larapinta Falls, following Christmas Creek and exploring the dense rainforest of Lamington National Park. An absolutely stunning waterfall over 30 metres high, Larapinta Falls truly feels out of this world. Don’t be shy, take a dip in this epic setting as you listen to the hypnotizing sound of the gushing water. Even though there are other waterfalls on your way here, none of them can prepare you for this beauty. As you’re making your way through the forest, keep an ear out for the tunes of different bird species and try to single them out. You’ll also pass by Westray's Grave, where you can read about the unlucky death of the englishman. Be careful whilst rock hopping as the rocks can become extremely slippery when wet. If you get lost, try to realign with the creek and look for the pink tape on the trees. Bring lots of water and snacks. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Larapinta Falls Track

8 km return

5 h to 8 h

Larapinta Falls Track

Environment

Bunyaville CP Southern Circuit

Bunyaville CP Southern Circuit

8 km circuit

2 h 15 min to 3 h 30 min

8 km

Circuit

Walk

2 h 15 min to 3 h 30 min

Mtb

Run

1 h to 1 h 45 min

Starting from the Bunyaville Picnic Area, Bunya, this walk takes you on a circuit in the southern woodland of Bunyaville Conservation Park, crossing Albany Creek twice along the way. You’ll be heading along well-maintained tracks that provide plenty of shade as you explore the peaceful forest around you. The shared-use trails are great for mountain biking as well. Notice the diversity of the Eucalyptus trees, and keep an eye out for koalas on top of them. The laughing kookaburras and pied currawongs can be heard throughout the track. The picnic area at the end can make for a tasty finish. Look out for snakes in warmer months, especially the mesmerizing carpet python. Be aware of the mountain bikers and try to make way for them. Come early to minimize the amount of riders and traffic noise. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Environment

Simpson Falls from The Gap

Simpson Falls from The Gap

8 km return

2 h to 4 h

Starting from the end of Paten Road, The Gap, this return walk takes you to the Simpson Falls Picnic Area through the eucalypt forest, visiting the waterfall itself along the way. Formerly home to the Turrbal Aboriginal people, Mount Coot-tha is home to more than 350 species of wildlife. From gliders and possums to various birds of prey, you’re almost bound to see an interesting specimen. Best viewed after decent rainfall, Simpson Falls sits beautifully amidst the eucalypts. Listen to the gushing of the water as you enjoy the refreshing ambiance. The picnic area midway can be a perfect spot to have a small feast with modern BBQs and other amenities. Don’t worry if you eat too much and that lactic acid kicks in, as you can easily make this a one-way trip if you arrange transport. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Pets

Waterfall

Environment

Woonoongoora to The Settlement

Woonoongoora to The Settlement

8.2 km oneway

4 h to 5 h

Starting from the Woonoongoora walkers’ camp, O’Reilly, this walk takes you to The Settlement Day Use & Camping Area via the third and last section of the Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk, visiting Warringa Pool and Purling Brook Falls along the way. This walk will surprise you with the picturesque views it offers, from ancient plants that are older than dinosaurs to volcanic rocks and peaceful bodies of water. Going up & down in the ancient Gondwana rainforests will feel 'timeless', so take your time and observe the environment before running into man-made structures. Remember to bring your jumpers as there are several pools on your way, including the well-known Warringa. The Purling Brook Falls look gorgeous both from the suspension bridge at the bottom and the lookout at the top, but the feeling of cool water spraying your face can make you spend a bit more time than planned below the waterfall. Take extra care when crossing Little Nerang Creek. Beware of snakes, especially in warmer months. Let us begin by acknowledging the Bundjalung people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

Carnarvon Gorge Amphitheatre

Carnarvon Gorge Amphitheatre

8.2 km return

3 h to 5 h

Starting from the Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Centre, Carnarvon Park, this walk takes you to the Amphitheatre of the Carnarvon Gorge and back via the Big Bend Walk, optionally visiting the Moss Garden along the way. You’ll be dazzled by the colossal sandstone walls around you as you walk into this acoustic chamber. You’ll be able to listen to the reverbing sounds of nature if there’s no one else in there with you. And by any chance you’re with a person who can sing, sit back and enjoy the natural surround sound system. As a plus, this little haven of a place is significantly cooler than the main gorge. Other than that, notice the diversity of the vegetation as you take in the scenery throughout the walk. Keep in mind that there is a steep tiered ladder and a narrow crevice you need to pass to access the Amphitheatre. Bring some insect repellent to protect yourself from the mozzies(Australian slang for mosquitoes) and expect to get wet feet. Let us begin by acknowledging the Bidjara & Karingbal people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

Boondall Wetlands Bikeway/Walkway

Boondall Wetlands Bikeway/Walkway

8.3 km return

2 h to 3 h 15 min

Starting from Stanford Road, Boondall, this walk takes you through the Boondall Wetlands via the singular Boondall Wetlands Bikeway, optionally visiting Anne Beasley’s Lookout along the way. This area features heaps of wildlife as migratory and native bird species are known to rest and feed here. Possums, flying foxes, squirrel gliders and various reptiles are also some of the animals you can come across. The paved bikeway/walkway is wide, flat and wheelchair accessible. It’s suitable for both a cardio exercise and a stroll with the kids. As a plus, you’ll be able to bring your dog with you as well. Regardless of the season, remember to take mozzie(mosquito) repellent with you. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Pets

Environment

Tibberoowuccum and Tibrogargan Circuit

Tibberoowuccum and Tibrogargan Circuit

8.4 km circuit

2 h 45 min to 4 h 30 min

8.4 km

Circuit

Walk

2 h 45 min to 4 h 30 min

Starting from Marshs Road, Beerburrum, this walk takes you on a circuit around Tibberoowuccum and Tibrogargan mountains, visiting more than 5 viewpoints and crossing a creek along the way. With an optional side trip, you can visit the summit of Tibberoowuccum as well. You’ll find it hard to remember all the exceptional views you’ve encountered after this trip, so get ready to take some photos. Expect to see all the way over to the Sunshine Coast from atop Tibberoowuccum as you catch your breath. The other viewpoints along the way provide you unique angles of the surrounding Glass House Mountains, rewarding you well for your effort. If lucky, you may spot some yellow-tailed black cockatoos or even a Wedge-tailed eagle. Keep in mind that there is a little bit of rock scrambling involved near the summit of Tibberoowuccum, but it’s not mandatory to get a good view over the land. An insect repellent will come in handy against the mozzies(Australian word for mosquitos). Try to avoid wet conditions as the track gets slippery. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

Starting from Mount Cougal Trailhead Carpark, Dungay, this hike/climb takes you to the summits of Mount Cougal via the Cougar Track, skirting the QLD-NSW border. Expect to be hypnotized by the spectacular views over the Gold Coast and Currumbin valley, along with the rest of the country. The scramble for the top may seem hard, but it’s surely worth the gorgeous landscape. As you hike through the rainforest that’s teeming with wildlife, you may run into some cute koalas chilling on trees. Don’t forget to explore the cave hidden behind the rock formation just before the top to get the full experience. Wear long pants to avoid scratches and ticks. You’ll need grippy shoes to safely climb up and down the mountain. The rocks become slippery and dangerous when wet, so please check the forecast beforehand. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Summits of Mount Cougal

8.4 km return

3 h 30 min to 5 h

Summits of Mount Cougal

Environment

Barker Creek Scenic Circuit

Barker Creek Scenic Circuit

8.4 km circuit

2 h 30 min to 4 h

Starting from the car park at the end of Bunya Avenue, this walk takes you on a circuit in the Bunya Mountains National Park, crossing multiple creeks and visiting several lookouts & waterfalls along the way. You’ll have the option to visit the Barker Creek Lookout and a colossal strangler fig that you can literally go through. Expect a leisurely hike that pushes you just the right amount as you go through the dense subtropical rainforest. From lovely waterfalls to panoramic picturesque views, this quiet walk through nature disconnects you from the thrum of modern life with ease. The area is home to colourful bird species such as Pittas and a dab of the exceptional Victoria’s Riflebird. The waterfalls are best viewed after some decent rainfall, but this leads to an increased number of leeches. Remember to bring a raincoat regardless of the forecast. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

Mount Allan from Charlie Moreland Campground

Mount Allan from Charlie Moreland Campground

8.5 km return

2 h to 3 h 30 min

Starting from Sunday Creek Road in Charlie Moreland Campground, Kenilworth, this walk takes you to the summit of Mount Allan and back via the Mount Allan Fire Trail, exploring the woodlands of Imbil State Forest and Conondale NP. Take in the rewarding 360 views over the pine forest after you conquer the challenging ascent. The cozy fire tower atop the summit lets you enjoy unimpeded views of the surrounding area. You may come across wallabies and crimson rosellas as you make your way through the dense forest, along with a nice surprise of monarch butterflies if you’re lucky. The sound of cicadas will accompany you if you’re here in summer. In fact, don’t forget to bring your swimmers as the campground features a beach-like sandy area near the waterhole along Little Yabba Creek. The wide, well-formed track gives you a great leg workout on the ascent, and tests your knees and ankles on the way down. Therefore, proper hiking boots with ankle support can come in handy along with hiking poles to ease the pressure on your knees. An above average level of fitness is recommended. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Swim

Environment

Dularcha NP Eastern Circuit

Dularcha NP Eastern Circuit

8.6 km circuit

2 h to 4 h

Starting from the corner/intersection of Beech Road and Cunningham Avenue, Landsborough, this walk takes you on a circuit in the diverse woodland of Dularcha National Park, going through a historic railway tunnel along the way. Also known as the North Coast Line No 1 : Mooloolah Tunnel, this heritage-listed tunnel is home to large-footed bats and blue/purple moths. Besides the historic tunnel, expect an adventurous hike through the mixed forest that will push you at times. The tracks are well-shaded and provide you glimpses of the surrounding area between the trees. You’ll be sharing the tracks with mountain bikers and horse riders, so keep an ear out at all times. Try to schedule the journey on a dry week as it can get quite muddy and slippery after some rain. Keep quiet and avoid using your flashlight etc. whilst in the tunnel to not disturb the wildlife inside. The signposts along the track can be misleading, therefore a printed map or a gps device is recommended. Hiking poles may come in handy for steep parts as well. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Ruins

Environment

Starting near James Cook University, Smithfield, this walk takes you to the summit of Saddle Mountain and back, exploring the rainforests of Smithfield Conservation Park. You will be rewarded by some spectacular views of the northern beaches as well as the Lambs Head and Double Island. There is also a weather station at the top, along with a large boulder that you can sit on and enjoy the landscape. The rocks and the track gets slippery when wet, so a good pair of grippy shoes/boots and gloves are recommended. Trekking poles will also help on the way down. Keep an eye out for snakes on and around the track, but don’t be afraid, they are just out to get some sun. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Saddle Mountain Track

8.7 km return

3 h to 5 h

Saddle Mountain Track

Environment

Yul-Yan-Man and Soldiers Settlement Circuit

Yul-Yan-Man and Soldiers Settlement Circuit

8.8 km circuit

2 h 45 min to 4 h

Starting from the car park at the end of Mount Beerburrum Access Road, Beerburrum, this walk takes you on a circuit in the varied woodland of Glass House Mountains National Park via the Yul-Yan-Man and Soldiers Settlement tracks, optionally visiting the Jack Ferris Lookout along the way. This well-marked scenic circuit features different types of terrain underfoot, and provides you distinct views of the surrounding Glass House Mountains. Starting with a scramble at the base of Mt Beerburrum, you’ll then dive into the lively woodland. Expect to see lots of wild flowers, and some sunbaking(Australian slang for sunbathing) lace monitor lizards along the track. The pretty scenery continues throughout the track, and there are many spots for you to just stop and take in the view. Grippy footwear is recommended. Take plenty of water as the track is quite exposed, with rocks soaking up all the sunlight. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

Starting from the J.C. Slaughter Falls Picnic Area, Toowong, this walk takes you on a circuit in the Mount Coot-tha Reserve, visiting the said mount’s summit and J.C. Slaughter Falls along the way. This nice loop in nature provides you with all kinds of visual and aural features. You’ll be hearing birdsong throughout the journey, with the complementing sound of burbling water near the waterfall. Expect to see spectacular views over the city of Brisbane from the summit. There is a cafe and a restaurant at the top where you can take a break and enjoy a good meal, or just a coffee to sip on whilst savoring the views. This route can make for a great family trip with all the amenities provided throughout, or you can come solo and make it a fun trail run. The area tends to be busy, so come early to avoid the crowd and protect yourself from the midday sun. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Mount Coot-tha Circuit

8.9 km circuit

2 h 45 min to 4 h 30 min

Mount Coot-tha Circuit

8.9 km

Circuit

Walk

2 h 45 min to 4 h 30 min

Run

1 h 15 min to 2 h 15 min

Environment