An insider's guide to the Noosa Trail Network
How-to
By Danielle Reckless
Hidden in the hills behind the bustle and golden beaches of ever-popular seaside village, Noosa, sits the Noosa Trail Network. Now referred to as the Noosa Biosphere Trails, due its location within Noosa's recognised UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, it's one of the Sunshine Coast’s best kept secrets. And when it comes to refreshing brushes with nature, it’s pretty hard to beat.
Crisscrossing farmland, fields and forest, the Noosa Trail Network is an unforgettable way to explore this region’s unique hinterland. But it’s not all walking: you can explore by foot, horse or mountain bike. The eight scenic trails – many of which started as animal stock routes – range from the easy one-hour-return stroll to a five-day journey.
It's time to venture away from the coastline and get to know Noosa like never before.
Why you should explore Noosa Trail Network
Whether you're a history buff, outdoor adventurer, bird watcher, weekend walker who's already conquered Noosa National Park, or just looking for a chance to reconnect with nature, there's something here for you.
Meander along the Noosa Trail Network for even just a few hours and you'll discover why its so special. A serene slice of life that's often overlooked in favour of the coastline, here you'll pass through national parks, state forests, working dairy farms, sweet smelling groves of macadamia nut farms and along quiet country lanes.
The Noosa Trail Network also links the hinterland villages of Kin Kin, Pomona, Cooran and Cooroy. There’s an array of local cafes, country-style pubs and antiques, crafts and markets plus even a distillery - so stick around and taste your way through.
Whether you're on two feet, two wheels or horseback, there's so many ways to tackle the Noosa Trail Network. The trails are all well marked with interpretive signage including ecology facts and fascinating history - and with major trail upgrades underway you can keep up to date with changes and closures here.
Noosa Trail Network for hikers
Photo by @emeraldnoosa
Easy does it
Your route: Kookaburra Park to Mary River Cod Park, Lake Macdonald (a section of trail 4) – 1km each way
An easy one-hour return walk along Collwood Road, this trail is a stunning introduction to Noosa’s rainforest, with views over Lake MacDonald to boot.
The nearby Noosa Botanic Gardens are definitely worth a wander after your stroll. The well-kept gardens feature sculptures, a fern house and over 100 species of birds. There’s even a Greek-inspired amphitheatre hosting regular opera performances.
On your drive home, drop into Cooroy for a bite to eat at Copperhead Restaurant & Brewery.
A full day adventure
Your route: Mary River Cod Park, Lake Macdonald to Middle Lookout, Cooran (a section of trail 4 and trail 2) – 10km each way
Up for more? From Mary River Cod Park continue through Forest Acres residential estate. Then head into Ringtail State Forest and up to Twin Hill Views Lookout, Pomona. After enjoying the views, follow Trail 2 to Middle Lookout where there’s a campground. Return on foot or get collected from the Camphor Road car park.
From here by car, you’ve got the townships of Pomona and Cooran a short distance away - well known for their upcycled/vintage-inspired shops and cafes. Try The Vintage Junction in Cooran or Pomona Distilling Co, which serves up paddock-to-plate fare and cocktails perfect for sipping in the sunny garden.
A trail to stick around for
Your route: Kin Kin Countryside Loop (trail 1) – 14km circuit
If you’d like to meander a while longer, set off on a four-hour walk through Kin Kin's mango farms and rolling green hills. Start at Kin Kin sports grounds, conveniently located opposite the general store., where you should stock up and pack a picnic that celebrates local produce.
Have a leisurely lunch at either Sheppersons Park or Gradys Park (depending on which loop direction you’ve chosen), and wave to the friendly dairy cows and goats as you go.
Best cycling and mountain biking on Noosa Trail Network
Photo by @visitsunshinecoast
Get the blood pumping
Your route: Tablelands Circuit (12km), part of trail 3
This medium-length ride will become a quick favourite of the Noosa Trail Network. Park at James McKane Memorial Lookout and set off on a ride that winds through vibrant rainforest, tall eucalypt forest and quiet country lanes. Feeling energetic? Add another 4km return ride to Johnstons Lookout
Ride to lunch
Your route: Lake Macdonald to Kin Kin
On limited time but craving a weekend ride? Cycle from Lake Macdonald and up to Kin Kin for lunch, following trail 4. There are options to stick to road cycling, and the 20 km route should take around 1.5 – 2 hours each way depending on fitness. The quads will burn on the ascents but it’s worth the reward of countryside views and a meal at Black Ant Gourmet, an award-winning paddock-to-plate café experience with strong ties to the local community and its farmers.
Tackle the big one
Your route: Cooran to Kin Kin via Woondum National Park (22km)
If you’ve got time for only one trail, make it Trail 3 – a great option for both mountain biking and hiking.
Park at James McKane Memorial Lookout in Cooran (also known as Tablelands Lookout) and ride/walk a leisurely 17km downhill to Kin Kin via Woondum National Park and Johnstons Lookout. You’ll pass through a wide variety of ecosystems – from panoramic hinterland and coastal vistas to tall open eucalypt forest, rainforest and farmland – which is what makes this section of the Noosa Trail Network so special.
Return to Cooran in the afternoon or next day (it’s an uphill stretch) or organise a return lift from Kin Kin.
Tips:
- You’ll need to be fairly fit to complete this trail and will need to leave early in the morning if you're hiking. Woondum National Park is only open during daylight hours with no overnight camping.
- Access to James McKane Memorial Lookout includes a gravel road and requires a 4WD after periods of heavy rain.
- For an extra challenge, start from the township of Cooran rather than the lookout.
An overnight adventure
Your route: Traverse trail 3 (22km) and return on trail 2 (25km)
Up for a challenge? Combine mountain biking and camping into the one wilderness adventure to discover the best of the Noosa Trail Network. This route can be done in either direction, though a favourite is to ride trail 3 to Kin Kin on the first day, then return via Scenic Trail (trail 2) the next – the spectacular views along this route make it worth your while.
Stay overnight in charming Kin Kin, where your pick of accommodation options includes campsites., country retreats and B&Bs, with Rosecliffe Boutique Farm Cottages and Mayan Luxe Villas both close to the trail network.
Time your adventure for the first Sunday of then month when Kin Kin Markets take over Kin Kin Oval from 8am – 12pm. The market is a hub of home-made and homegrown produce, food and drinks, secondhand goods and artisan crafts.
Endurance riders could tackle the 40km circuit in a single day, or even complete a 62km circuit through trail 3, 4, 5 & 7 if looking for a bigger challenge. There's a reason the Noosa Trail Network hosts the gruelling annual Noosa Enduro, after all.
Where to gear up for your Noosa Trail Network adventure
Photo by @getlostmagazine
Nothing beats having the locals show you the ropes, whether you’re on holiday or simply trying something new.
Bike On has an extensive range of mountain bikes and e-MTB that include everything you need for a day out, with pick-up and delivery options within Noosa. Spoke N Trail offer bike rentals alongside coaching, tours and shuttle services.
Where to refuel afterwards
More than an adventure playground, the Noosa Hinterland is a foodie’s haven with endless spots to refuel – from craft distilleries and local breweries to cafes and farm shops. If you’re keen to base yourself in this beautiful part of the world to explore for a few days, there’s ample accommodation in and around Noosa, from farm stays to luxurious retreats where even taking a bath allows you to keep taking in the views.
Making your way back to the sands of Noosa afterwards? Use this guide to reserve your dinner table.
Craving more outdoor adventures nearby? Discover even more Sunshine Coast mountain bike trails, or get to know a new side of the hinterland with national park hiking and paddles on the Everglades.
