Short and scenic — explore the best walks around Brisbane this weekend!
Going out for a walk can be a great way to relax, unwind and, more importantly, get your daily step count up. But, if you’re starting to get sick of the ‘round the block’ route, why not venture a little farther out and into nature.
To help you explore more of Brisbane’s backyard, we’ve found secluded walking tracks dotted around the city and suburbs. The perfect way to get some fresh air and take in the gorgeous natural environment, tie up your shoes as we’re taking you on a journey through the best walking trails in Brisbane!
Photographed by Jessmie. Image via Shutterstock.
Boombana, Mount Nebo
Nestled in the D’Aguilar National Park in Brisbane’s North, Boombana is perfect for those who want to discover some vastly different scenery all within a 40-minute drive from Brisbane’s CBD. There are two different tracks leaving from the Boombana Picnic Area: the Pitta Circuit which is just over an easy one-kilometre walk; and the longer Thylogale Track which is eight kilometres return and takes approximately four hours. The paths take you through an open eucalypt forest and damp rainforest areas which lead visitors to the ever-popular Jollys Lookout that’s home to some spectacular views. With a picnic area and amenities nearby, you could even make a day out of this great Brisbane walk.
Photographed by Melissa Roberson. Image supplied.
Greenes Falls, Mount Glorious
This relatively easy hiking track is another gem in the D’Aguilar National Park area with lush rainforest surrounds and plenty of birdlife. The Greenes Falls Track itself — which is a near two-and-a-half kilometre return — begins at the Maiala Picnic Ground and leads down to a viewing platform over the falls. If this isn’t enough, you can also start your journey at the Rainforest Circuit, an extra two kilometres, or add the 500-metre Cypress Grove Track to the end of your walk. If you aren’t fond of stairs or inclines, this may not be the track for you but the view at the end may be worth the sweat.
Photographed by Danny Stone. Image supplied.
J.C. Slaughter Falls
If you’re looking for the best Brisbane bush walks, allrounder favourite J.C. Slaughter Falls is only 15 minutes from Brisbane’s CBD and falls at the base of Mount Coot-tha. Despite its name, the falls rarely ever see flowing water; only after a significant downpour will you see anything worthy of waterfall status. It is still a particularly lovely 600 metre walk to the falls, or you can challenge yourself and continue on the steep, two-kilometre track to the summit of Mount Coot-tha. Once you reach the peak, make sure to reward yourself for your hard work by taking in the sweeping, panoramic views of Brisbane and a scoop of ice-cream while you’re at it.
Photographed by Nick Guarino. Image supplied.
Karawatha Forest
This large section of bushland in Brisbane’s south encompasses numerous walking tracks that span eucalyptus bushland, freshwater lagoons, wetlands and sandstone ridges. If you’re looking for a longer walk, try the uphill Rocks Circuit (eight kilometres) or, if you’re after more of a laid-back experience, meander past small freshwater lagoons on the Melaleuca Circuit (one kilometre). There are plenty of amenities including a sizeable picnic and barbecue area, a playground and the Karawatha Forest Discovery Centre. For the birdwatching enthusiasts, there are over 100 species of bird to be found in addition to the plethora of wildlife that inhabit the protected area. One of the best nature walks in Brisbane!
Photographed by Clint Mckoy. Image via Unsplash.
Lota Creek Boardwalk
Along Brisbane’s Bayside region lies the Lota Creek Boardwalk that connects the Lota Parklands to the natural reserve areas of Ransome. Take yourself on a leisurely afternoon stroll through paperbark and eucalyptus forests, mangroves and saltmarshes either by foot or on a bicycle. The flat one kilometre walk is suitable for everyone and is even wheelchair accessible. With bench seats dotted along the boardwalk and bitumen tracks, there’s plenty of opportunity to have a moment to yourself and take in your surroundings.
Photographed by Nyema Robins.
Image supplied via Instagram (@nyemacontessa).
Toohey Forest Reserve
If you’re looking for one of the best walking tracks in Brisbane that provides a slice of nature but is nestled amongst the southside suburbia, Toohey Forest adjacent Mount Gravatt Outlook Reserve is for you. Bordered by Nathan, Tarragindi, Mount Gravatt and Holland Park, this vast eucalypt bushland area has a multitude of different tracks to choose from. The area is well signed and most of the tracks are easy to manage regardless of your fitness level. If you want to get your calf muscles working, try the Summit Track that takes you to the top of Mount Gravatt. Great panaoramic views are guaranteed!
Photographed by Vicki Niemeyer.
Image supplied via Instagram (@vicki.niemeyer).
Walkabout Creek, Enoggera Reservoir
Arguably one of Brisbane’s most popular watering holes, Enoggera Reservoir is a gorgeous spot to take a dip and get some fresh air. Unsurprisingly, it is also one of the best walks in and around Brisbane. Here you can take a lengthy walk around the perimeter of the reservoir which takes roughly two-and-a-half hours. The track does include some fairly steep hills and can appear misleading as it merges with the surrounding suburbs, so it’s recommended to head into the information centre to grab a map before you set off on your adventure. The lush canopied forests and abundance of wildlife make this walk one not to miss.
Looking to gasp at a slice of heaven? Don’t miss these Top 10 Sunset Viewing Spots around Brisbane. Or, if you’re looking for a bush walk with a waterfall, we’ve also found the 10 Best Waterfalls in Queensland!
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