Best Walks and Hikes in Brisbane and Nearby

Published: November 2, 2025

By: Elly McGuinness

Brisbane boasts some excellent options for walks and hikes in and near the city. From scenic coastal strolls to trails that guarantee a sweat-up, there’s something for everyone. Read on to discover the trails and paths I encountered during my two recent visits to the city. I’ll add to this post when I return and complete more of them!

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Mount Coot-tha

Mount Coot-tha is probably Brisbane’s most popular hiking area. There are several easy-moderate trails to choose from, either leaving from the botanical gardens or the car park at J.C. Slaughter Falls.

My friend and I walked from J.C. Slaughter Falls, first taking the Hoop Pine Track and then other lesser-beaten/unmarked trails to the summit.

It took us 1 hour and 20 minutes to reach the top at a faster pace than my usual pace (my friend walks faster than I do, lol), and then 20 minutes to walk back down to the start, but this time via the standard 2km beaten path that I guess most people choose.

Overall, we spent about 1 hour and 45 minutes walking, including a brief stop at the top to take in the vistas.

The summit offers excellent views across Brisbane, and it also features a cafe if you want to walk up and enjoy a cuppa. So whether you want a straightforward hike to the summit or something a bit longer, make sure you check out the trails at Mount Coot-tha.

A view of Brisbane city as seen from Mount Coot-tha.

Wynnum North Reserve Circuit

The Wynnum North Reserve Circuit is a short but special walk through the mangroves on the edge of Moreton Bay National Park on Brisbane’s Bayside.

It’s an important location for migratory birds. A mix of tropical and temperate species travel through, making the area home to diverse and abundant wildlife.

There are also plenty of biting insects, so consider bringing some repellent!

You can walk the circuit in either direction in about 20 minutes. Or spend a little longer and read all the information signs along the way. Part of the circuit is along a boardwalk, which leads to a bird hide for nice views of the bay.

The Wynnum North Reserve circuit features a bird hide and lovely views of Moreton Bay.

Lota Creek boardwalk and circuit – 2km

If you’re looking for leisurely walks in Brisbane, search the Lota Creek Boardwalk on Google Maps and start your walk there. The boardwalk section is short but picturesque and home to a variety of wildlife, including frogs, lizards, and birds. At the end of the boardwalk, you’ll see a track entrance to your left. From there, take the 1.1km loop walk (Nodosa Track/Lota Creek Circuit), and then walk back along the boardwalk to where you started.

The loop walk is at the north end of the Chelsea Road Reserve, which offers several other shared-use (walking and bike riding) trails. Therefore, it’s easy to extend your walk to other trails. The area is part of the extensive Bayside Parklands.

Elly takes a selfie in front of the Lota Creek while walking the Lota Creeek boardwalk and circuit.

Lota-Manly and Manly-Wynnum – 9km

Between Lota and Wynnum (on Brisbane’s Bayside), there’s a lovely paved and flat coastal path, perfect for a stroll. If you walk the full length, it’s about 9km return. Or, do a shorter 4km return walk between Lota and Manly, or about 5km return between Manly and Wynnum.

From Fig Tree Point Park in Lota, follow the Esplanade path north. The walk passes Airlie’s Playground and Lota takeaway before reaching Manly.

Consider pausing and marveling at Manly’s impressive yacht club and stopping at one of the picturesque cafes overlooking the harbour and boats.

Boats at the Manly harbour can be seen on the Lota to Wynnum waterfront walk.

When you get to Wynnum, take a wander on the jetty and dip your feet in the Wynnum wading pool. If you have kids, they’ll no doubt want to stop and play at Whale Park Wynnum.

If you wanted a bigger walk, you could combine this path with the Wynnum Mangrove Boardwalk. It’s another 2km north.

Another option is to catch the train back from Wynnum to Lota if you prefer a one-way walk.

The Wynnum Wading Pool is an excellent place to take the kids to cool off on Brisbane's Bayside.

Victoria Point Beachfront Walk – 5km

The Victoria Point beachfront walk is a flat, paved path around the bay, which is prettiest at high tide. Les Moore Park is a good place to start to get in about 5 km for the return trip.

A lovely seaside vista from the Victoria Point Beachfront Walk.

Jack Gordon Pathway, Redland Bay – 3km

The Jack Gordon Pathway is an easy coastal walking track in Redland Bay. The return trip is about 3 km, and it’s flat and paved the whole way.

Start from Sel Outridge Park (which has a playground and toilets) or from the car park on North Street. Meander around the bay and through the bush, enjoying the tranquil setting.

Nannie Annie walks the beagles along the Jack Gordon Pathway at Redland Bay.

Walks and hikes in Brisbane | In conclusion

The above is just a small sample of what’s available in terms of walks and hikes in Brisbane and its surrounding areas. I didn’t get to complete all the hikes I wanted to, which leaves plenty up my sleeve for our next visit!

A few other ideas of places to hike in and near Brisbane include: