Whether it’s a leisurely stroll or a challenging multi-day hike, walking is a great form of exercise. Lucky for Queenslanders, Brisbane is teeming with walking trails that have the perfect blend of the cityscape and the surrounding natural backdrop, too. So whether you’re a born and bred Brisbanian, or it’s your first time visiting the Queensland capital, without further ado, here are six of the best walking trails in Brisbane you simply can’t miss.
01
Kangaroo Point Cliffs Walk
Easy
Looking for a quick, easy walk? The Kangaroo Point cliffs walk is only 1.5 kilometres and promises some of the best views of Brisbane’s skyline and the Brisbane River. This 15 minute walk is a short, flat trek that takes you along the top of the Kangaroo Point cliffs and is perfect for a leisurely stroll. If you’re doing the walk on a weekend, there are plenty of spots to stop and have a picnic, or, for the more adventurous, the cliffs are also a great spot for rock climbing and abseiling.
02
Mt Coot-tha Summit Track
Moderate
Just a short drive from the city centre is the Mt Coot-tha summit track, which is one of Brisbane’s most popular walks. This trail will see you ascending a moderately steep path through bushland as you make your way to the summit of Mt Coot-tha. At the top, you’ll get front row seats to some of the best views of Brisbane and Moreton Bay. The path is a steady 2 kilometre incline which makes it a good, challenging walk. The best part is, once you reach the summit, you can relax at the café where you can take in the view while sipping on a coffee.
03
City Botanic Gardens Riverwalk
Easy
For a walk right in the heart of the city, the City Botanic Gardens Riverwalk is a 3.5 kilometre loop along the Brisbane River that will give you a taste of some of Brisbane’s beauty. The walk takes you through the Botanic Gardens that are filled with mangroves, lakes and wildlife. It’s an easy, flat trail that only takes about half an hour to walk, making this the perfect walking trail for families. The walk doesn’t have to finish at the end of the loop, you can easily hop onto other paths that will take you around the Brisbane River and through the city, too.
04
Brisbane Riverwalk
Easy
The Brisbane Riverwalk is one of the best ways to explore the heart of the city. Walking along a suspended walkway, this trail connects New Farm to Howard Smith Wharves. This is a flat, easy trail that’s perfect for a morning or evening walk and gives you great views of the Brisbane river, Story Bridge, and the city’s skyline. There’s plenty of restaurants and cafes either side, too, so you can satiate your appetite after getting your exercise in.
05
Boondall Wetlands Walk
Easy to Moderate
Just a short drive outside of Brisbane is the Boondall Wetlands walk, which is the best way to explore Brisbane’s natural wetlands. The reserve has several walking trails ranging from easy 2 km paths to more challenging 15 km treks. The wetlands are famous for their tidal flats, mangroves, forests and wildlife from birds to crabs and fish. This is a great, easy walk that will get you out and about in nature.
