Carnarvon Gorge
Explore Queensland'sWalks and Hikes
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.jpg?fit=crop%2C1&fmt=webp&hei=210&qlt=60&wid=210 "Day hikes")
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Queensland Great Walks
Want bragging rights? Our Great Walks deliver next-level landscapes that'll have you reaching for your camera every five minutes.
Fancy island-hopping on foot? The Ngaro Sea Trail weaves across The Whitsundays, letting you switch between sailing, kayaking and walking on Whitsunday, South Molle and Hook Islands. Or tackle K'gari's (formerly Fraser Island) 90km sandy epic – a 6-8 day journey across the world's largest sand island. For the truly adventurous, Hinchinbrook Island's Thorsborne Trail serves up some of Australia's most dramatic scenery (just remember to pack everything you need – this one's totally self-sufficient).
Inland, the Carnarvon Great Walk is just showing off, outback style – think mind-blowing gorges and unexpected oases. Or escape the Gold Coast glitz with the 54km Hinterland Great Walk, winding from O'Reilly's past Binna Burra to Nerang Creek and tumbling Purling Brook Falls.
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Walks and hikes in South East Queensland
South East Queensland is a walker's playground. The hinterland behind Brisbane, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast delivers trails that'll have you back for dinner or camping under stars – your choice.
Need a Brisbane escape? Head west to Mount Glorious and Mount Nebo for easy day walks or overnighters with basic bush camps that let you wake up to birdsong.
Just southwest of the Gold Coast lies the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforest – spanning Lamington, Springbrook, Mt Barney and Main Range National Parks. Ancient trees, hidden waterfalls, and that earthy rainforest smell that'll clear your head instantly.
Sunshine Coast hikers, you're spoilt for choice. Stroll past famous surf breaks on Noosa National Park’s coastal walk, scramble up 25-million-year-old Mount Coolum, or tackle Mt Ngungun in the Glass House Mountains for eye-popping panoramas. Need a refreshing finish? Chase the hidden cascade at Baxter Falls in Kondalilla National Park.
Hiking in North Queensland
North Queensland's trails? Next level spectacular. Home to legendary walks like the Thorsborne Trail on Hinchinbrook Island, our tropics is hiking heaven whether you want a quick nature fix or a full-blown walking holiday.
Fancy conquering Queensland's highest peak? Bartle Frere stands proud at 1,622 metres, surrounded by ancient rainforest and those sweeping Great Dividing Range views that'll make your climb worthwhile.
Cairns locals are spoilt with trails just minutes from their doorstep. Glacier Rock, Mt Whitfield, Behana Gorge and Walshs Pyramid all deliver nature hits within 30 minutes of the city.
Want the ultimate reward? Head to Lambs Head (Kahlpahlim Rock) and choose your adventure – open forest on the Ridge Trail or lush rainforest on the Kahlpahlim Rock Trail. Either way, you'll score postcard-worthy views over Cairns, Lake Morris and the Atherton Tablelands.
Queensland hiking and walking FAQs
What are the most popular two-day hikes in Queensland?
Bartle Frere Trail tops the charts – tough as nails but gorgeous enough to make you forget your burning calves. Pack for two days and thank us later when you're soaking up those summit views.
Where's the best destination in Queensland for hiking holidays?
Spoiler alert: everywhere's amazing! But if we're playing favourites, Cairns & Great Barrier Reef wins for its unbeatable combo of ancient rainforests and national parks. World's oldest rainforest meets world's largest reef? Yes please!
What are the best bushwalks in Brisbane?
Brisbane's hiding some cracking trails! Escape the city buzz at Keperra Bushland Reserve or Venmans Bushland National Park. Both give you that wilderness feel without the long drive.
What are the best hikes near Brisbane?
Take your pick! Challenge yourself on Australia's longest recreational rail trail (open walkers, cyclists and horse riding), knock off the classic Mount Coot-tha Summit Track, or feel the sea breeze on Minjerribah’s (North Stradbroke Island) stunning Gorge Walk.
How long does it take to walk the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail?
At 161km, you’d need several days to walk this beast of a trail – but you can tackle it in sections in a day hike or even just a few hours. Want to ride it instead? Experienced cyclists can conquer the trail in around eight hours. Pack snacks. Lots of snacks.
Which walking trails near Brisbane are dog-friendly?
Bring your four-legged hiking buddy to The Honeyeater Track in Chapel Hill (a moderate 2km climb) or the beautiful trails at Daisy Hill Conservation Park south of the CBD. Tails will definitely be wagging!
When's the best time to do the New Farm River Walk?
This 37-acre riverfront stunner connects New Farm Park to the Brisbane CBD in about 75 minutes each way. Pro tip: weekdays are blissfully peaceful compared to the weekend crowds.
How to get to North Gorge Walk?
Hop on a ferry to Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island) from Hamilton Wharves, Howard Smith Wharves, Manly or Cleveland. Then bus or drive to Point Lookout where the Gorge Walk delivers some serious ocean views – and the opportunity to spot dolphins, turtles, manta rays and even humpback whales (in season).
Which Gold Coast hikes are good for swimming?
Hiking meets cooling off? Yes please! Take Burleigh Heads National Park’s oceanview track for a refreshing dip at Tallebudgera Creek. In the hinterland, hit Twin Falls and Purling Brook Falls in Springbrook National Park, or Cedar Creek Falls on Tamborine Mountain. Nothing beats a waterfall dip after working up a sweat!
Where is Witches Falls Walking Track?
Find this magical 3.4km trail in Tamborine National Park, an easy drive from Brisbane or Gold Coast. It's a chill Grade 1 walk taking about 75 minutes – perfect for when you want a nature fix without a full-on workout.
Which Gold Coast hiking trails have bush camps?
Love snoozing under stars? The Gold Coast hinterland's got secret camping spots that'll make you forget the glitzy beachfront is just down the road. Wake up to kookaburras instead of alarm clocks!
What's the best Glass House Mountains walk for kids?
Wild Horse Mountain's your go-to – the baby of the Glass House family at just 1.4km return. Even the littlest legs can conquer this 30-minute walk and feel like champion explorers.
Do I need to camp to do the Carnarvon Gorge walks?
Not at all! Plenty of gorgeous walks under 10km can be knocked off in a day. Ancient rock art, hidden gorges and towering sandstone cliffs without having to pitch a tent? Get the details here.
What are the best hikes in Cairns for sunsets?
Bartle Frere delivers sunset gold, while Early Hill Conservation Park gives you that magical rainforest-meets-dusk vibe. Just want an easy stroll? The Cairns Esplanade serves up killer sunset colours with zero effort required (plus bars and restaurants galore).
How long does the Thorsborne Trail take?
This legendary 32km Hinchinbrook Island adventure typically takes 4-5 days. Worth every blister for those pristine beaches, misty mountains and wilderness that'll reset your soul.
Ready to hit the trails? Discover more Queensland national parks.
