The Best Spots for Hiking in Brisbane in 2025

Brisbane, with its subtropical climate and stunning natural surroundings, is a hiker’s paradise. Whether you’re seeking a challenging summit with panoramic city views or a tranquil stroll through lush, hidden trails, the River City delivers.

So, pack your water bottle, lace up your boots, and discover the natural beauty that thrives just beyond the city’s edge.

Hiking with a View: Brisbane’s Best City Vista Trails

There’s something uniquely rewarding about a hike that culminates in a spectacular view of the city you’re exploring. Brisbane offers several trails where effort is met with incredible payoffs.

Mount Coot-tha Summit Track: Just 10km west of the CBD, Mount Coot-tha is Brisbane’s highest peak and offers arguably the most iconic city views. The Summit Track begins at JC Slaughter Falls, winding through eucalyptus forest before reaching the lookout.

• Vibe: Popular, accessible, family-friendly.
  • Distance: 2-3km return (Summit Track), with other options like the 3km Mahogany Trail.
  • Highlight: Unparalleled views of the Brisbane skyline, extending to Moreton Bay on a clear day. Perfect for sunrise or sunset hikes.

Mount Coot-tha Summit Track: Just 10km west of the CBD, Mount Coot-tha is Brisbane’s highest peak and offers arguably the most iconic city views. The Summit Track begins at JC Slaughter Falls, winding through eucalyptus forest before reaching the lookout.

• Vibe: Popular, accessible, family-friendly.
  • Distance: 2-3km return (Summit Track), with other options like the 3km Mahogany Trail.
  • Highlight: Unparalleled views of the Brisbane skyline, extending to Moreton Bay on a clear day. Perfect for sunrise or sunset hikes.

Discovering Brisbane’s Hidden Hiking Trails

Beyond the popular lookouts, Brisbane and its surrounding regions are dotted with quieter, more secluded trails that offer a deeper immersion in nature.

Boondall Wetlands: Located in Brisbane’s north, the Boondall Wetlands offer a network of walking and cycling tracks through diverse ecosystems including mangroves, tidal flats, and open forests. It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise with numerous species to spot.

• Vibe: Serene, peaceful, wildlife-rich.
  • Distance: Tracks range from short boardwalks (100m) to longer trails (up to 13km).
  • Highlight: A chance to experience Brisbane’s unique coastal wetlands and spot a vast array of birdlife, away from the city buzz.

D’Aguilar National Park (South Section – Brisbane Forest Park): Just a short drive northwest of the city, this vast national park is a treasure trove of hiking opportunities. From easy strolls to challenging climbs, you can find trails leading to lookouts, waterholes, and through lush rainforest.

• Vibe: Immersive, varied, truly natural escape.
  • Trails to try:
    • Mermaid Mountain Track: A moderately challenging loop that rewards with views of Lake Manchester. While popular, it feels more secluded than city trails.
    • Gold Creek Reservoir: Offers a beautiful circuit walk around the reservoir, known for its peaceful atmosphere and clear water.
  • Highlight: A diverse range of trails through stunning bushland, offering a true escape without venturing too far.

White Rock – Spring Mountain Conservation Estate: Southwest of Brisbane, this estate offers a network of trails leading to the striking White Rock formation and through eucalyptus forests. It’s a significant cultural site for the local Indigenous community.

• Vibe: Rugged, culturally significant, less crowded.
  • Distance: Various loops and return tracks, from 2km to 15km.
  • Highlight: Unique geological formations and a sense of ancient history, offering a different kind of natural beauty.

Enoggera Reservoir (Walkabout Creek Discovery Centre): Close to the city, this spot offers a lovely circuit walk around the reservoir. It’s family-friendly and a great place for a gentle hike, kayaking, or a picnic.

• Vibe: Relaxed, family-friendly, accessible.
  • Distance: A full lake loop is around 11km, with a 5km half circuit also a popular choice.
  • Highlight: Calm waters, abundant birdlife, and the convenience of being so close to the city.

Your Hiking Hub: Where to Stay in Brisbane

When you want a base that keeps you moments from trailheads and nightlife, Ovolo The Valley hits the mark.

Excellent public-transport links put Mount Coot-tha, Boondall Wetlands and Enoggera Reservoir within an easy bus or train ride, while D’Aguilar and White Rock trailheads are straightforward weekend drives.

After the hike, the rooftop pool, boutique luxury rooms and the eclectic nearby bars and restaurants feel event better. It’s a natural fit for walkers who want hiking Brisbane mornings and vibrant Valley evenings without compromise.