Break a sweat with Queensland’s 10 best running routes

Running fans can breathe a sigh of relief - Queensland boasts enough running tracks across the state to keep you entertained (and keep your training in check) during your stay. From top to tail, there’s a bounty of running routes scattered across the state, nudging rivers, beaches, and even clambering mountaintops. We’ll show you the way - grab your trainers and follow our running route planner in Queensland for the 10 best running tracks you’ll find in the Sunshine State.

Brisbane River

Explore the capital on foot with a run around the city centre dubbed the river loop. Pedestrian-only bridges are conveniently common here, as are landscaped pathways hugging the river’s edge. Make the most of these features, and see some of Brisbane’s best landmarks with an 8-kilometre running loop that kicks off at the Botanic Gardens, crossing the Goodwill Bridge and meandering the promenade at South Bank. From there you’ll jog over the Brisbane River via the iconic Story Bridge, finishing dining precinct of Eagle Street Pier.

Wherever you find yourself along the riverfront, you're likely to find pathways that'll lead you on a run to somewhere special.

University of Queensland, Brisbane

Slightly upstream in foliage-fringed St Lucia resides the manicured grounds of Queensland’s oldest university. Wedged between the Brisbane River, this space of learning comprises a collection of historic sandstone buildings and luscious greenery. To get here warm up with the 5 kilometres run from the city centre, or take the easy option and hop aboard the CityCat. As for the run itself, run by the Jacarandas past the Rowing Club and Athletics stadium. From here you’ll pass the Green Bridge, and find yourself on the Brisbane Corso nature strip.

Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast

Greet sunrise or sunset with a sweat session along the seemingly endless stretch of sand dubbed the Gold Coast. Run your way along the cluster of iconic beaches, heading north from the bright lights of Surfers Paradise, and onwards towards the district's only beachfront resort Sheraton Mirage on Main Beach. If soft sand is not your forte, rest assured that there are also 42 kilometres of Gold Coast beach paths to enjoy.

Noosa National Park, Sunshine Coast

No running route planner in Queensland is complete without a foray through the picturesque Noosa National Park, along the 3 kilometre coastal walk. While only a short stroll from the main drag of Noosa’s Hastings Street, this gathering of rainforest, and revered swimming and surfing spots will make you feel a world away. Keep pace as you follow your way along the bushwalking tracks, taking in the view from Noosa Heads and turning back once you reach Hell’s Gates.

Airlie Beach, Whitsundays

Take in the views of the neighbouring Great Barrier Reef with a morning run in Airlie Beach. Follow the purpose-built boardwalk which stretches its way from the Port of Airlie north towards Cannonvale Beach. You’ll pass the sailing club, Abell Point Marina and be rewarded on the completion of your workout to a view out to the nearby islands. But don’t forget to wear swimwear underneath - you can cool off post-run with a dip in the Airlie Beach Lagoon.

Passage Peak, Hamilton Island, Whitsundays

Escape to paradise with a stay on the pristine Hamilton Island. There’s no need to leave your training behind - after all this is the home of a handful of different fun runs. Working on your fitness isn’t hard when the tracks are accompanied by some of Queensland’s best views. Particularly when it comes to the running route which stretches from the Beach Club Resort to the heights of Passage Peak. Set off early, making your way through dense bush until you reach the top, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic 360-degree views of the surrounding 74 Whitsunday islands.

Castle Hill, Townsville

The Castle Hill run up north in Townsville will appeal to the adventurous. As its name suggests, this gruelling stint which reaches around 4 kilometres is largely uphill. Though once you reach the top you’ll be able to enjoy the views out onto nearby Magnetic Island. Those who prefer a more leisurely jog may prefer the run along The Strand closer to town.

Magnetic Island, Townsville

Within arm’s reach of Townsville lies Magnetic Island. Not only aesthetically pleasing, this pristine sandy escape is also the home of annual fitness challenge Adventurethon. You can choose to push yourself by participating in the extreme triathlon, which includes a 17 kilometre run, or take to the other running routes on offer, including the historic Forts Walk. This 4 kilometre trail weaves the beaches and bays of the island, as well as a collection of ruins from World War II.

Cairns Promenade, Tropical North Queensland

Follow in the footsteps of the world’s fittest with a run along the 5 kilometre Cairns Esplanade, the annual track which forms a part of the much revered Cairns IRONMAN event. Jog along the marina, weaving your way around the superyachts, and on to the Cairns Lagoon where crowds will be cooling off from the region’s humidity before continuing along the boardwalk. A word of advice - considering the average temperatures of Queensland's northern reaches, it’s best to run at sunrise or sunset.

Mount Coot-tha, Brisbane

Challenge yourself with an uphill run around one of Brisbane’s most beloved tourist destinations. Just a 20 minute drive from the capital’s CBD sits the hilly bushland of Mount Coot-tha, a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. Jog along the bushwalking tracks, greeting gum trees, streams, gullies, and waterfalls along the way, and stopping to take in the breathtaking view of Brisbane and its surrounds from the summit. It's one of the best spots to watch sunrise too.