Queensland Great Walks

Those after a challenge will be enticed by Queensland's renowned collection of lengthy Great Walks. Like the Ngaro Sea Trail in the Whitsunday Islands which mingles seaways and picturesque walks across no less than three islands – Whitsunday, South Molle and Hook Islands. Or tackle the 90-kilometre journey on the world’s largest sandy island, K'gari (formerly Fraser Island), a great walk that takes six to eight days to complete, or Hinchinbrook Island’s epic Thorsborne Trail, a fully self-sufficient hike that traverses some of the most dramatic landscapes in Australia.  

Hidden inland in Southern Country, the Carnarvon Great Walk is another highlight among Queensland’s Great Walks, with this outback oasis delivering no shortage of phenomenal scenery across its myriad gorges. A little closer to the dazzling lights and skyline of Surfers Paradise, the 54-km Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk is one of the most popular multi-day and overnight hikes in South East Queensland and winds from O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat past Binna Burra through to Nerang Creek and Purling Brook Falls in Springbrook National Park.

Walks and hikes in South East Queensland

South East Queensland is a hero destination for bush walks and hiking trails, with the hinterland surrounding Brisbane, the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast offering plenty of one-day and multi-day hikes.

Those looking for hikes near Brisbane will find ample options in the hills west of the city, with Mount Glorious and Mount Nebo offering a collection of easy day hikes and multi-day hikes with simple bush camp accommodation.  
 
South-west of the Gold Coast, experience a deep connection with nature in the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforest which straddles the southern border and includes Lamington, Springbrook, Mt Barney and Main Range National Parks. 

Along with the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk and the sandy Cooloola Great Walk, the coastal walk through Noosa National Park greets some of the state’s most famed beaches and surf breaks and is deservedly popular. Other beloved Sunshine Coast hikes include the Mt Ngungun walk in The Glass House Mountains, or why not climb up 25 million-year-old Mount Coolum and the lesser-known Baxter Falls, a stunning hidden waterfall, in Kondalilla National Park. 

Hiking in North Queensland 

Home to some of Queensland’s most famed Great Walks, including the iconic Thorsborne Trail on Hinchinbrook Island, Cairns & Great Barrier Reef is teeming with trails to explore, with plenty of day hikes and ample options for those planning a walking holiday in Queensland.

Climb the summit of Bartle Frere (1,622 metres above sea level) and take in the views offered by the tallest mountain in Queensland. Surrounded by World Heritage rainforest and the Great Dividing Range, Cairns is a favourite destination for bush walks and hikes, with its myriad (and somewhat less strenuous) trails inclusive of Glacier Rock, Mt Whitfield, Behana Gorge and Walshs Pyramid – all located within half an hour of Cairns.

For rewarding views over the Cairns coastline, Lake Morris and the Atherton Tablelands courtesy of a longer but immensely tranquil journey, head to Lambs Head (Kahlpahlim Rock) and take your pick of the Ridge Trail (open forest) or Kahlpahlim Rock Trail (rainforest). 

Queensland hiking and walking FAQs

What are the most popular two-day hikes in Queensland?

The Bartle Frere Trail is one of Queensland's most challenging Great Walks but it's also one of the most beautiful and can be completed in two days. Explore more multi-day hikes in Queensland. 

Where's the best destination in Queensland for hiking holidays?

Every region in Queensland offers incredible hikes, but if you're looking to plan your holiday around the great outdoors, Cairns & Great Barrier Reef is especially popular for its incredible national parks and ancient rainforests. Get to know the best rainforest walks near Cairns. 

What are the best bushwalks in Brisbane?

You're spoilt for choice on bushwalks in Brisbane. Keperra Bushland Reserve and Venmans Bushland National Park are great choices, but you can also take a look at the best day hikes from Brisbane.

What are the best hikes near Brisbane?

No matter your skill level, Brisbane has a hike for everyone. From the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail (Australia's longest recreational rail trail) to the iconic Mount Coot-tha Summit Track or the incredible Gorge Walk on North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah), there's plenty to choose from. Here are the best day hikes from Brisbane.

How long does it take to walk the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail?

Stretching a huge stretching 161 km, the Brisbane Valley Trail takes around eight hours to walk.

Which walking trails near Brisbane are dog-friendly?

Brisbane is surrounded by pet-friendly forests and walks such as The Honeyeater Track, a moderate 2 km climb to the Summit Lookout starting from Chapel Hill in Brisbane’s west or south of the CBD hit up the beautiful walking trails in Daisy Hill Conservation Park. Check out the best pet-friendly experiences in Brisbane.

When's the best time to do the New Farm River Walk?

One edge of the 37-acre New Farm Park touches the Brisbane River and a riverfront boardwalk connects the park with the Brisbane CBD by foot. Expect to take up to 1 hour 15 minutes each way. Weekends can be busy so take a stroll here on a weekday when it's most peaceful.

How to get to North Gorge Walk?

To get to North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah), jump on a ferry from Hamilton Wharves, Howard Smith Wharves, Manly or Cleveland. From here you can drive or take the bus to Point Lookout where you'll find the Gorge Walk. Get to know North Stradbroke Island.

Which Gold Coast hikes are good for swimming?

The Gold Coast is home to some phenomenal waterfalls and some you can even swim in, such as Twin Falls and Purling Brook Falls in Springbrook National Park, and Cedar Creek Falls in Tamborine Mountain. Discover more Gold Coast hiking trails with swimming spots here.

Where is Witches Falls Walking Track?

Witches Falls Walking Track is set in Tamborine National Park. This 3.4 km walk is classified as Grade 1: Easy and takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete.

Which Gold Coast hiking trails have bush camps?

No matter which Gold Coast hike you choose, there's a spot to lay your head under the stars. Here are the Gold Coast's best-kept camping secrets. 

What's the best Glass House Mountains walk for kids?

The smallest member of the Glass House crew is Wild Horse Mountain. It's only a 1.4 km return and should take around 30 minutes.

Do I need to camp to do the Carnarvon Gorge walks?

There are plenty of short walk options at Carnarvon Gorge – under 10 km and can be done in a day. Check out the best day walks and hikes in Carnarvon Gorge. 

What are the best hikes in Cairns for sunsets?

Bartle Frere is an excellent choice, as is a rainforest walk through Early Hill Conservation Park. For a gentle stroll, head to the scenic Cairns Esplanade.

How long does the Thorsborne Trail take?

The Thorsbrone Trail on Hinchinbrook Island is 32 km long and should take around 4-5 days to complete. Here's how to hike the Thorsborne Trail on Hinchinbrook Island.

See here for more information about Queensland National Parks.