The Sunshine Coast hinterland is one of South East Queensland's great natural treasures. The Glass House Mountains — twelve craggy volcanic peaks formed 25 to 27 million years ago — rise dramatically from flat coastal plains about 70 kilometres north of Brisbane. Behind them, the Blackall Range lifts into a world of subtropical rainforest, 90-metre waterfalls, piccabeen palm groves and panoramic lookouts stretching from the mountains to the sea.
Whether you want a gentle 30-minute rainforest stroll, a heart-pumping summit scramble or a multi-day wilderness trek, this guide covers every trail worth walking — with honest difficulty ratings, distances and the insider tips that make the difference between a good walk and a great one.
Respecting Country
The Glass House Mountains hold deep spiritual significance for the Jinibara and Kabi Kabi peoples. In local Dreaming stories, Mount Tibrogargan is the father, Mount Beerwah the mother, and the surrounding peaks their children — with Mount Ngungun as the loyal dingo. The Jinibara and Kabi Kabi peoples respectfully request that visitors refrain from climbing to the summits of Mount Tibrogargan and Mount Beerwah, out of respect for their sacred values. We encourage all walkers to honour this request.
Glass House Mountains National Park
Listed on the Queensland and National Heritage Register, the park protects the remnants of ancient volcanic plugs surrounded by open eucalypt woodland and heathy vegetation. Three trailheads — Ngungun, Tibrogargan and Beerburrum — provide access to the main walks. The park is about one hour's drive north of Brisbane via the Bruce Highway, or 40 minutes from Maroochydore.
Mount Ngungun Summit Track
The most popular walk in the Glass House Mountains and the most rewarding summit for the effort. The track passes through open forest with a fern understorey, past a small rock overhang (known as Lovers Cave), before climbing steeply to a 253-metre summit with spectacular 360-degree views of Tibrogargan, Coonowrin and Beerwah. Families with children aged 8+ manage it well. Arrive early — the carpark fills fast on weekends. Rocks become very slippery after rain.
Tibrogargan Circuit
A family-friendly loop around the base of Mount Tibrogargan through casuarina groves, open eucalypt and melaleuca forests. Stop at Mountain View lookout for views of Beerwah and Coonowrin. Peregrine falcons often soar above the crags. No steep climbing — a great introduction to the park for all ages and fitness levels.
Mount Beerburrum Summit
Short but steep — a paved concrete path climbs through a pocket of rainforest and eucalyptus woodland to a fire tower at the 280-metre peak. Panoramic views of the coast, Brisbane and Moreton Island reward the effort. A popular sunrise and sunset spot. The sustained steepness means it's harder than the short distance suggests.
Trachyte Circuit
Links Tibrogargan and Tibberoowuccum through open woodland and heathland. The highlight is Jack Ferris Lookout on Trachyte Ridge, with stunning views of the iconic peaks. In spring, the heath explodes with colour — candlestick banksias bloom bright yellow, and honeyeaters swarm the wildflowers. At dawn and dusk, watch for eastern grey kangaroos and whiptail wallabies.
Yul-yan-man Track (Beerburrum to Tibrogargan)
For experienced bushwalkers with rock-scrambling skills. Links the Beerburrum and Tibrogargan trailheads through varied terrain. Can be done as a one-way walk (organise transport back) or combined with other circuits for a longer loop. The Soldier Settlers trail section passes through historical farmland with interpretive signage.
Wild Horse Mountain Lookout
About 10 km from Glass House Mountains township in Beerburrum West State Forest. A short walking track from the lookout leads through scribbly gum forest, down through a wet eucalypt gully and back up. The lookout itself offers one of the best panoramic views of all the mountain peaks, the coast, and on clear days, Brisbane and Moreton Island. Wheelchair-accessible viewing area.
Mount Coolum
Closer to the coast, Mount Coolum stands 208 metres high — the world's second-largest rock — just 3.5 km from Coolum Beach. The 1.6 km return track (allow 1.5 hours) climbs steadily through coastal bushland to a summit with sweeping views from Double Island Point to Caloundra. It's a popular walk for families and fitness enthusiasts, and one of the best sunrise spots on the Sunshine Coast. Start early or late to avoid the midday heat, and bring more water than you think you'll need.
Hinterland Waterfall Walks
The Blackall Range — the mountain spine running through the hinterland between Maleny and Mapleton — captures rainfall that feeds some of Queensland's most spectacular waterfalls. The hinterland is about 35 minutes' drive west of Maroochydore.
Kondalilla Falls Circuit
"Kondalilla" means "rushing waters" in the local Aboriginal language, and the name fits — water cascades 90 metres over Skene Creek into a lush rainforest valley. The circuit descends via around 300 steps through subtropical rainforest to a rock pool at the base (bring your swimmers in summer). The return climb is the real workout. A shorter 1.7 km option leads to a valley lookout. Gets very busy on weekends — arrive before 8 am for parking.
Mapleton Falls & Wompoo Circuit
Mapleton Falls drops 120 metres from Pencil Creek into the escarpment below. Start at the lookout for a bird's-eye view (peregrine falcons often swoop above), then take the Wompoo Circuit through tall piccabeen palms and giant strangler figs. The falls are actually easier to view from the trail than the lookout. In winter, flow can reduce to a trickle — visit after rain for the full spectacle.
Gheerulla Falls
One of the hinterland's best-kept secrets. A gentle walk through Mapleton National Park winds down to a secluded waterfall and swimming hole — often with nobody else there. No crowds, no 300-step climb, just peaceful bush and a refreshing dip. Perfect for those who want a waterfall experience without the workout of Kondalilla.
Gardner's Falls
At the end of Obi Lane South off Landsborough–Maleny Road, a very short walk leads to a mini cascade and popular rock pool. In summer, locals swing from rope swings into the water. It's not the most spectacular falls on the range, but its easy access and swimming hole make it a popular family stop, especially combined with a day in Maleny.
Rainforest Reserves
Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve
Fifty-five hectares of National Estate-listed subtropical rainforest on the edge of Maleny, with panoramic views of the Glass House Mountains from the upper deck of the Discovery Centre. The 1.7 km Rainforest Walk loops through towering piccabeen palms on a mostly flat boardwalk — suitable for all fitness levels including prams and wheelchairs on certain sections. An interactive interpretive centre is great for kids, and the on-site café serves good coffee and gluten-free options. Open daily 7 am to 6 pm. Free entry. One of the best short walks on the entire Sunshine Coast.
Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Gardens
Located at Tanawha between the coast and hinterland, these gardens feature the Whipbird Village — a wonderland of cubbies and pods made from living shrubs that children adore. Walking trails wind through different habitat zones, and a regular calendar of kid-friendly events keeps things fresh. Free entry, ample parking.
Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk
The 58 km Great Walk is the region's premier multi-day trek, running north from Baroon Pocket Dam near Maleny through Kondalilla National Park, Mapleton Falls National Park and Mapleton National Park. The track passes through subtropical rainforest, wet and dry sclerophyll forest, creek crossings (including a suspension bridge over Baxter Creek), and rewards walkers with views from Gheerulla Bluff, Thilba Thalba viewpoint and the Narrows Gorge lookout.
Most walkers complete it in 3–4 days using the designated walkers' camps (Flaxton, Ubajee, Thilba Thalba and Gheerulla Creek). The ideal group size is four; do not exceed twelve. Carry a portable fuel stove (no campfires), plenty of water and online topographic maps — the printed brochure map is insufficient for navigation. Popular day-walk sections include Baroon Pocket Dam to Kondalilla Falls (11 km, 3.5 hours) and the Flaxton to Mapleton Falls leg (6 km, 2.5 hours).
Walking Safety
Start early. Heat exhaustion is the biggest risk on Glass House Mountains walks. Begin before 8 am in summer and allow enough time to finish before dark.
Sturdy footwear is essential. Rocks become extremely slippery after rain — postpone summit walks in wet conditions.
Carry more water than you think. There are no water refill points on most trails. At least 2 litres per person for any walk over an hour.
Stay on marked tracks. Cliff edges are sheer and unprotected. Supervise children closely near summits.
Watch for wildlife. Eastern grey kangaroos, goanna, tree snakes and many bird species inhabit the parks. Keep a respectful distance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest Glass House Mountains walk?
Can you climb Mount Tibrogargan and Mount Beerwah?
How long is the Kondalilla Falls walk?
How do I get to the Glass House Mountains?
What is the Hinterland Great Walk?
Are there guided hiking tours available?
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