Search bushwalks Page 17

Starting from the end of Boscombe Road, Mount Coot-tha, this circuit walk takes you to the southern foreshores of Enoggera Reservoir via the Boscombe Road Trail, South Boundary Road and the Reservoir Track. Let the constant breeze cool you off as you hike towards the scenic reservoir, only to find a gorgeous body of water that you can swim in. After the peaceful swim, remember to check out the different views of the dam as you hike along the Reservoir Track. The tracks are suitable for running and mountain biking as well, so keep an ear out for them throughout the track. Remember to take plenty of water as the area is humid and relatively hot, even in winter. Trekking poles may come in handy in steeper parts. 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

Mtb

Run

1 h 15 min to 2 h 15 min

Swim

Environment

Starting from the Ewen Maddock Dam car park off Connection Road, Landsborough, this explores the northwestern foreshore of Ewen Maddock Dam Reservoir. An extremely scenic and well-maintained set of shared use tracks will let you better focus on the picturesque environment around you. Expect to be dazed by the tranquil views of nature all over the reservoir. You’ll see lots of bird species along with goannas and dragonflies near the tracks. You can choose how you want to get around the reservoir as there are multiple options available. The tracks are used by mountain bikers and horse riders as well, so keep an ear out. Remember to bring an insect repellent to protect yourself from the ‘mozzies’(Australian slang for mosquitoes) and wear some proper hiking boots if you’re going to hike under wet conditions. Look out for snakes in warmer months. Keep in mind that the reserve closes at 8PM. 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

Ewen Maddock Dam North

9 km return

2 h to 3 h 45 min

Ewen Maddock Dam North

Environment

Lake Coombabah East Circuit

Lake Coombabah East Circuit

9 km circuit

2 h to 3 h 45 min

Starting from the car park on Shelter Road, Coombabah, this walk takes you on a circuit in the Coombabah Reserve, exploring the diverse vegetation whilst being able to spot lots of wildlife. You’ll be able to see lots of koalas and wallabies, with the occasional koala on treetops. If lucky, there’s even a chance for you to see the mysterious tawny frogmouth or a cute little echidna. Notice the change in vegetation as you go through gorgeous trees and mangroves. Featuring a flat, well-signposted set of tracks that you can pick to your liking, this walk can make for a great lakeside family trip. Let your kids ride their bikes as you enjoy a peaceful stroll in nature. Mozzie (mosquito) spray is crucial, especially around sunrise/sunset. Keep an eye out for snakes. 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

Birdwatching

Environment

Urban

Bus

Camp Mountain & Bellbird Grove Circuit

Camp Mountain & Bellbird Grove Circuit

9 km circuit

3 h to 4 h 30 min

1 h 30 min to 2 h 30 min

Starting from South McLean Road, Camp Mountain, this circuit walk takes you to the summit of Camp Mountain and Bellbird Grove Day Use Area, exploring the woodland of D’Aguilar National Park along the way. You’ll be welcomed by the exceptional views of Brisbane and Moreton Bay from the lookout, along with the gorgeous Samford Valley in the distance. Remember to lift your head up every once in a while as you hike along the scenic tracks and keep an eye out for the beehives on trees. You can stop for a peaceful picnic in the Bellbird Grove area and make use of the big space with your kids/friends. There may be closures of certain tracks due to controlled burns, so please check them beforehand. Look out for cars along the narrow twisty road section of the track. 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

6 h 30 min, 9 h to 2 days

The Stinson Wreckage

9.1 km return

6 h 30 min, 9 h to 2 days

Starting from Christmas Creek Road, Lamington, this return hike takes you to the Stinson Crash Site, visiting Westray’s Grave midway through. The walk also features lots of creek crossings along with a couple of waterfalls, and involves a decent amount of rock scrambling/hopping. In February 1937 a Stinson Model A airliner disappeared after taking off from Brisbane. It had set course for Sydney, but was nowhere to be found as the people of Australia remained shocked. The news made it to Lamington after a week, and Herb O'Reilly told his brother Bernard about it, along with where he thought it could be. Bernard climbed to the summit of Mount Throakban after spending a long night in the dense rainforest, and luckily spotted a burnt tree in the distance. He hastily made his way to the area in 3 hours, and heard a ‘Cooee’(a shout originated in Australia to attract attention) that alarmed him. He found Joe Binstead and John Proud, surprisingly alive after 10 days of being stranded. Four other men were there, lying dead on the ground. The surviving two told Bernard that Jim Westray - the englishman which was also on the plane with them - had gone to get help. Bernard left the men to seek aid. As he was making his way along Christmas Creek, he unfortunately found James Guthrie Westray’s lifeless body. He had fallen over a waterfall. He was buried by Christmas Creek, and the memorial commemorating him is still there to this day. Explore the gorgeous scenery as you delve into the saddening story of these people. The journey may be challenging, but the experience is well worth the hassle. Keep in mind that you can stay at the campsite near the wreckage and make this a multiday hike. Grippy trekking shoes are a must. Long sleeves and pants may also come in handy, as the track can be overgrown in parts. 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 Gravatt from Toohey Picnic Area

Mount Gravatt from Toohey Picnic Area

9.2 km circuit

2 h 45 min to 4 h 30 min

9.2 km

Circuit

Starting from Toohey Picnic Area car park off Toohey Road, Salisbury, this circuit walk takes you to Mount Gravatt Lookout and back, visiting the Sandstone Lookout, Western Outlook and Griffith University along the way. Mt Gravatt offers a breathtaking panoramic view of central Brisbane and beyond. If the weather allows, you can even see the Moreton Bay islands from here. The journey is on well-maintained, clearly-signposted and shady tracks. More than 400 native animals, such as the short-beaked echidna, red-browed finch or rainbow lorikeet, call Toohey Forest their home. Dogs are allowed on-leash. There is a cafe located at the midway point, Mount Gravatt Lookout, for a quick refreshment break. However, be aware that the lookout can get busy during the afternoon. 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

Bus

Starting from Ironbark Gully Car Park off Samford Road, Ferny Hills, this walk takes you on a circuit in the woodland of Samford Conservation Park, visiting 2 picnic areas along the way. A picturesque forest that’s quite close to Brisbane, Samford CP has an extensive web of shared tracks that are used for hiking training/workouts regularly. The area is home to kookaburras, and you’re almost guaranteed to hear the birdsong as you make your way through the eucalpyt forest. Keep an eye out for cute little fairy doors set into the tree bases. After decent rainfall, you may cross some minor creeks that are nothing but pleasant tranquilizers in nature. Feel free to stop and listen to the burbling sound of water if you come across one. Have a picnic in the Ironbark Gully after the hike, and maybe get a coffee from the coffee cart that’s set up in the car park. Some parts of the track may have some loose gravel/dirt, so grippy footwear is recommended. The School Break section is a bit steep, therefore hiking poles may come in handy. Come early to minimize the amount of mountain bikers and the noise pollution coming from the road. 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

Samford CP Circuit

9.2 km circuit

3 h to 4 h 30 min

1 h 30 min to 2 h 30 min

Cafe

Environment

Baroon Dam to Kondalilla Falls

Baroon Dam to Kondalilla Falls

9.4 km oneway

3 h 45 min to 5 h 30 min

Oneway

Starting from the car park off Narrows Road, North Maleny, this walk explores the woodland of Kondalilla National Park, visiting many lookouts and Kondalilla Falls along the way. Expect to be dazzled by gorgeous views of nature from the several lookouts such as the Baroon, Narrows and Flat Rock. Besides the viewpoints, you’ll have a chance to spot some rare bird species and wild animals as you make your way through the lively forest. The scenic rock pools on both ends of the waterfall will be waiting for you to jump in and cool off as you take a break from your hike. Listen to the eastern whipbirds and take in the lovely scenery as the water rejuvenates your legs. Keep in mind that this walk can be reversed as well. And if you’re going to hike under wet conditions, remember to prepare well for the leeches. 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

3 h 45 min to 5 h 30 min

Environment

Noosa Heads Coastal Track

Noosa Heads Coastal Track

9.4 km return

2 h 45 min to 4 h 30 min

Return

Starting from the car park off Mitti Street, Noosa Heads, this return walk explores the coastline of Noosa Heads via the Coastal Track, visiting the Boiling Pot, Dolphin Point, Hell’s Gates and Devil’s Kitchen viewpoints along with multiple scenic beaches. The lush vegetation coupled with the extraordinary views and the refreshing aura of the Coral Sea offers an unforgettable experience. Try to spot dolphins and whales as you’re savoring the stunning scenery, but don’t forget to look for koalas on top of the eucalyptus trees as well. Besides the section on Alexandria Beach(which is a stroll on pristine smooth sand), the track is paved all the way through. Remember to cover your head and apply sunscreen. Look out for strong currents at all times if you decide to take a dip in the water. 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

Run

1 h 15 min to 2 h 15 min

Environment

Nerang NP Southeastern Circuit

Nerang NP Southeastern Circuit

9.4 km circuit

2 h 45 min to 4 h 30 min

Circuit

Starting from Hope Street, Nerang, this walk takes you on a circuit in the eucalypt woodland of Nerang National Park via various shared-use trails, crossing multiple creeks along the way. This track will challenge your navigational and aural skills as well as your level of fitness, if not more. The extensive web of tracks give you a chance to customize your journey, but this also means that there will be heaps of intersections/turns that you need to memorize if you’re on a trail run. You may come across the occasional wallaby along with other wildlife residing in the park. The tracks are shared with mountain bikers, therefore you need to look out and listen for them at all times to be safe. The gradient is varied with some decent ascents/descents that will get your heart rate up. You’ll be covered by the canopy on some parts of the journey, but the exposed parts may become problematic in warmer months. 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

Mtb

Run

1 h 15 min to 2 h 15 min

The Pinnacle - Springbrook

The Pinnacle - Springbrook

9.4 km return

3 h 45 min to 5 h 30 min

Return

Starting from the Tallanbana Picnic Area Car Park, Springbrook, this walk takes you to The Pinnacle and back mostly via the Warrie Circuit. Rising 630 metres above ground, the summit of The Pinnacle will reward you with exceptional panoramic views over the land. Along the way, you’ll pass by 4 gorgeous waterfalls including Kadjamoora and Rainbow Falls. The diverse wildlife in the dense rainforest can be quite surprising, with a chance of seeing a colossal Carpet Python along the track. Just keep your distance and appreciate the creature from afar. After leaving the Warrie Circuit, the track can become quite overgrown in parts. Cover yourself well to avoid leeches and cuts. You may need to do some bush-bashing and scrambling near the peak. Pack well, wear sturdy and grippy shoes and come early to enjoy the walk better. Schedule the walk after some decent rainfall to see the waterfalls at their best. 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

3 h 45 min to 5 h 30 min

Waterfall

Environment

Carnarvon Gorge to Big Bend

Carnarvon Gorge to Big Bend

9.5 km oneway

2 h 45 min to 4 h 30 min

9.5 km

Oneway

Starting from the Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Centre, Carnarvon Park, this walk takes you to the Big Bend walkers’ camp via the first section of the 87 km Carnarvon Great Walk, visiting Moss Garden, Ward’s Canyon, Art Gallery and Cathedral Cave along the way. Head along the iconic gorge and start off your journey with a comprehensive walk. Offering you cool havens in the otherwise scorching gorge with the side trips; this track features great views, top-notch rock art and some strangely peaceful moments in unique places. The gorge itself is stunning enough to justify the heat and effort, but the side trips diversify the experience greatly. The campsite has non-flush toilets and offers heaps of shade. Enjoy the relatively cool weather and try to spot some catfish. Unfortunately, you can’t swim with them. Check the weather temperature beforehand and try to avoid midday hikes. Don’t be fooled by the heat during the day as the campsite can get windy and cold during the night. Remember to bring some insect repellent for the mozzies (Australian slang for mosquitoes) as well. Be prepared to get your feet wet at the crossings. Keep in mind that you’ll need a permit to access Carnarvon Park and the campsites. 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

Heritage

Environment

9 h 30 min, 12 h to 2 days

Mount Halifax Track

9.5 km return

9 h 30 min, 12 h to 2 days

Starting from Pace Road, Rollingstone, this walk takes you to the summit of Mount Halifax and back via the same-titled track, visiting multiple waterfalls along the way. Expect a challenging track that meanders along a creek as it ascends. Built by some Vietnam War veterans, this track features multiple climbs that are assisted by anchored ropes. Combined with the length and elevation of the hike, a good amount of fitness is recommended. You can camp at any campsite along the way and make this an overnight hike if you'd like to. If you’re not at the summit by midday and not planning on staying the night, head back and retry another day with an earlier start. Remember to take lots of water and insect repellent. 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

Waterfall

Environment

Starting from West Mount Cotton Road, Mount Cotton, this circuit walk gives you a comprehensive tour of Cornubia Forest, crossing multiple streams along the way. The Cornubia Forest Circuit takes you through the refreshing woodlands that provide habitat for heaps of animals such as water dragons, bandicoots, greater gliders and 50+ species of birds. Shared by walkers, runners and mountain bikers, these trails are reasonably well-maintained and offer a peaceful escape from the city. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way, and enjoy the serene natural environment. Dogs are allowed on lead. 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

Cornubia Forest Circuit

9.6 km circuit

3 h to 5 h

Cornubia Forest Circuit

Environment

Starting from Illaweena Street, Drewvale, this walk takes you on a circuit in the serene Karawatha Forest, crossing a lagoon and a creek along the way. This peaceful piece of bushland and wetland is home to 100+ bird species. Other than birds, you may run into koalas, kangaroos and lace monitors(reptiles). If lucky, you can even spot a greater glider or a green-thighed frog. There is an extensive web of well signposted tracks in the forest which you can choose from, and most of them provide a decent amount of shade. Keep an ear out for mountain bikers. Come early to avoid the crowd and minimize the car noise coming from the road. Dogs are allowed on leash. 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

Karawatha Forest Circuit

9.7 km circuit

2 h 30 min to 4 h

Karawatha Forest Circuit

Environment