Top Running & Hiking Trails in Brisbane

It’s time to lace up your hiking boots and dust off those runners – Brisbane’s best hiking and running trails are calling.

If you’re into starting your day on the right foot, getting fit across the year, or getting your boots dirty for a weekend hike, Brisbane’s roads, paths, and trails are a great way to get your steps up.  

From rainforest climbs to riverfront jogs, Brisbane city and surroundings have everything you need for a breath of fresh air. And when it's time to rest those legs, there’s always a comfy Rambla short-stay with complementary parking nearby.

Our motto for this year is ‘Run. Hike. Repeat.’ Ready? Let’s go. 

Why Brisbane is Perfect for Outdoor Adventures

Brisbane practically forces you to get outdoors - it’s the capital of the Sunshine State after all. 

With 280 days of sunshine a year, it’s perfect one day, beautiful the next - so there’s very rarely an excuse not to get outdoors daily.  

The weather is mild, the seasons gentle – winters are crisp but comfortable, and even summer’s warmth is tempered by cooling breezes off the river and bay. Living here means you can swap your desk for a picnic table on a whim or sneak in a sunrise hike before work – after all, “outdoorsy” is practically in Brisbane’s DNA.

The city’s layout also makes active living a breeze. Think flat riverside paths and rooftop gardens in the CBD, and in the suburbs, miles of parkland and bike lanes. 

From New Farm’s leafy riverfront esplanade to West End’s bike-friendly streets, neighbourhoods like Teneriffe and Wynnum Manly were practically designed for strolls, rides, and sunrise jogs. 

Want the best of both worlds? You can finish a morning bushwalk at Mount Coot-tha and be poolside at the beach in South Bank within the hour. 

In short, Brisbane’s weather, location, and laid-back lifestyle make it an ideal base for hiking in Brisbane or lacing up for a run. Wellness isn’t a weekend plan here – it’s a way of life.

Top Hiking Trails in Brisbane

Mount Coot-tha Summit Track: The Iconic Brissie Bushwalk

Alt: Sunset over Brisbane city from the top of Mount Coot-tha Summit hiking Track

Credit: Unsplash Stock

Just a 15-minute drive from the city, Mt Coot-tha Reserve packs big nature within spitting distance of Brisbane’s skyline.

The 1.9 km Summit Track from the JC Slaughter Falls picnic area to the lookout is one of Brisbane’s signature hikes. It’s steep but short – a solid 30-minute leg-burner up to the summit, with city vistas that never disappoint. The track itself is a treat: you’ll scramble past waterfall sprays, wander through pockets of eucalypt forest, and even discover an Aboriginal art trail along the way. Locals especially love timing this one for sunset, when the city lights pop and the sky turns rouge.

Whether you’re a hardcore hill climber or hiking with toddlers (there are easier loops nearby, too), Mt Coot-tha is a must-do. At the top, you reward yourself with coffee at the cafe or picnic with panoramic views over Brisbane and Moreton Bay. 

Closest Rambla Stay: Rambla Perry House, Bowen Hills

Glass House Mountains Mount Ngungun Summit: Half-Day Adventure

If you’re up for a bigger adventure, head north to the Glass House Mountains’ iconic Mount Ngungun. 

Technically not “Brisbane” (it’s north, on the Sunshine Coast), but it’s barely more than an hour’s drive from the city – easily doable for a day trip. Ngungun is famous for its breathtaking 360° views: when you top out, you can see the full range of its rocky siblings (Tibrogargan, Beerwah, Beerburrum, etc.) standing proud against the sky. The trail is a challenging 2 km or so climb (about 2 hours round trip), but it’s well-formed with plenty of rock scrambling fun.

Many hikers swear by an early start (even a summit sunrise if you’re game) so you can savour the peace before the crowds arrive. By the time you hike back down, you’ll feel on top of the world – literally. 

For families and couples who love a challenge, Ngungun’s one of the best hikes around Brisbane to put their heart and legs to the test.

Closest Rambla Stay: All Brisbane locations

Lamington National Park Moran’s Falls Circuit: World-Class Hiking

Alt: Group of friends hike through the bush of Lamington National Park near Brisbane

Credit: Unsplash Stock

For truly world-class hiking, pack your day bag for Lamington National Park on the Gold Coast hinterland (yes, not technically Brissie but absolutely worth a mention). With glow worms sometimes visible on the cliffs at night and that grand cascade in front of you, it’s one of the region’s showiest day hikes.

This lush rainforest circuit winds through ancient fern trees, crosses bubbling creeks, and finishes at a spectacular waterfall drop – Moran’s Falls – plunging into a ferny gorge. Over 7+ kilometers, you’ll weave through lava-flow-formed ridges and possibly spot unique songbirds (listen for the lyrebird’s call in the brush). The trail is moderately steep, so take your time to soak in those mossy glades and fern gullies.

Do the circuit on a misty morning for maximum magic, or schedule it after recent rain (the falls are really breathtaking then). Families should note the complete loop takes about 3–4 hours, so bring snacks and camera. 

Closest Rambla Stay: Rambla South City SQ, Woolloongabba

D’Aguilar National Park Rainforest Circuit: Glorious 

Northwest of the city, D’Aguilar National Park stretches into tall eucalypts and subtropical rainforest. One of the loveliest walks here is the 2km Rainforest Circuit at Mount Glorious. Truly immersing you in the rainforest, it is designed for getting up close with towering strangler figs, cabbage trees, and crystal-clear creeks. The track stays nice and shady (a boon on a hot day), and there’s even a little day-use area ideal for a picnic.

To make the trip to D’Aguilar National Park even more valuable, the nearby Mermaid Mountain trail out of Mount Crosby (hard difficulty, ~18 km) is a local classic with lakeside views at the summit.

Whatever route you choose, you’ll be rewarded with quiet bushland and far-reaching views back to Brisbane’s basin. 

Closest Rambla Stay: Rambla Perry House, Bowen Hills

Toohey Forest Reserve: Nutbush Inner City Limits

Back in city limits, Toohey Forest Reserve near Nathan is Brisbane’s hidden bushwalking nook. Only 10 km (20 min) south-west of the CBD, this 260 ha woodland feels unexpectedly wild. The network of graded walking trails (some sealed, some dirt) winds around ancient sandstone boulders and pockets of eucalypt forest. Walkers report spotting wild koalas, pythons, and sugar gliders if they’re lucky – and even if not, the forest soundtrack of kookaburras and crimson rosellas is delightful.

Most trails here are easy to moderate, so it’s very family-friendly or a quick lunchtime stroll if you need a break from the office. After your hike you can spread out on one of the three picnic grounds and soak up the serenity. It’s like having a mini national park tucked behind suburbia. 

For a local “bushwalk” with minimal drive time and maximum greenery, Toohey ticks all the boxes.

Closest Rambla Stay: Rambla Story House, Kangaroo Point

Daisy Hill Conservation Park Buhot Creek Circuit: Easy Day Out

Finally, to round out the list, slip into Daisy Hill Conservation Park just south of Brisbane in Logan. The Buhot Creek Circuit (~9 km loop, ~3 hours) is another fantastic family-friendly hike. 

The trail meanders through open forest and past a gabled sandstone quarry lake,  now a serene spot to rest,  and there’s a chance to spot wallabies skittering among the trees. If you’re feeling inspired, the 4 km Poets Rock walk (inside Karawatha Forest nearby) takes you up to a lookout named for its romantic view. 

Daisy Hill’s bushland is classic south-east Queensland open forest, with giant gum trees and splashes of wildflowers in spring. Bring lots of water (it can get warm here) and keep an eye out for mountain bikers on the shared paths.  Stretch your legs among the gums, snap the kids among the orchids, and breathe in that country air – all without straying far from home.

Closest Rambla Stay: Rambla South City SQ, Woolloongabba

Popular Running Routes in Brisbane

If a bit of mud and bush isn’t your thing we get it. For a faster paced exploration around Brisbane that’s definitely got seal paths, hit the pavement on these running tracks that offer views and a coffee at the end. 

Kangaroo Point Cliffs & Story Bridge Loop: Classic Brissie Beauty

For a scenic city run, few routes beat the Kangaroo Point Cliffs Circuit. Start atop the cliffs, or your apartment at Rambla Story House, and you’re greeted with a sun-kissed river and killer skyline views. 

Run along the clifftop path, locals love to include a heart-pumping ascent up the Story Bridge staircase, then cross the Brisbane River via the Story Bridge back towards the city.

Turning around at the city side, duck down to the riverside boardwalk (adjacent to Howard Smith Wharves and the CBD) and cruise back alongside the water, ferries bobbing by.

This roughly 5–6 km loop delivers a perfect mix: leafy paths, city skyscrapers in view, and riverfront sections. 

Timing it for sunrise or sunset makes it extra special. Just after dawn, the water’s mirror-calm and the city is bathed in golden light,  unbeatable motivation for your morning run. 

If you’re training for a half-marathon or just out to soak up the city sights with a bit of exercise, this loop is a Brisbane classic that never gets old.

Closest Rambla Stay: Rambla Story House, Kangaroo Point

Brisbane Riverwalk’s New Farm to Newstead Run: Riverside Route

Alt: Sky view of Brisbane’s Riverwalk walking route alongside a sparkling Brisbane river

Credit: Unsplash Stock

Prefer a flatter riverside route? The Brisbane Riverwalk from New Farm through Newstead and Teneriffe is hard to beat. 

You can begin near the QUT campus and follow the well-signposted path under giant fig trees, past Howard Smith Wharves and Gasworks Plaza, all the way to the riverfront at Teneriffe. 

It’s roughly 5–7 km one-way if you do the full stretch, and mostly flat, making it ideal for an easy-breathing run or a fast interval session. Many runners park in New Farm, dash up to the Howard Smith Wharves and back, or even combine it with a lap of New Farm Park (think scenic tree-lined paths). 

The beauty of this riverside run is you can make it as short or as long as you like – just keep following the ‘Riverwalk’ signs till you’re all run-out. Even better, if you time it just right, you can catch a CityCat ferry back from Teneriffe or New Farm Landing. 

Closest Rambla Stay: Rambla Berwick House, Fortitude Valley

Kedron Brook Bikeway: Get In the Zone

For a long, uninterrupted run, check out the Kedron Brook Bikeway up in the northern suburbs. 

Technically a shared path for bikes and pedestrians, this route follows Kedron Brook east–west for about 16 km. That means you can go as far as you like, 5 km, 10 km, or the full 16 km one-way if you’re feeling keen. 

Because it’s designed for a casual bike ride, the trail is fully paved and mostly flat, making it a smooth cruise through parklands and reserves. Along the way you’ll pass playgrounds and paddocks (perhaps even catch a whiff of cows if you stray near the zoo), which keeps things interesting. 

It’s a great route for those who like to push distance without complex turns – just zone out and go. 

Closest Rambla Stay: Rambla Perry House, Bowen Hills

Planning Your Best Brisbane Hike or Run

What to Pack

Rain or shine, smart packing can make or break your day adventure. For longer bush hikes, we recommend packing:

• 2L water per person (more in summer)
• Sunblock, hat, and sunglasses to beat Brisbane’s rays
• Sturdy shoes (boots or trail runners) and comfy socks
• Snacks or lunch with a high-energy fare (think nuts, jerky, fruit, muesli bars)
• Insect repellent for more bushy hikes (sandflies and mosquitoes can be fierce at dusk)
• First-aid kit: plasters, antiseptic, blister pads, any personal meds (you don’t want to get stuck out there)

Pack everything in a comfortable daypack, and make sure it’s not too heavy – you still need to move freely.  With these essentials sorted, you’ll be set to tackle Brisbane’s bush walks or running tracks with confidence.

Best Times to Go on a Hike or Run in Brisbane

Alt: Morning running group jog in Brisbane through a hazy sunrise

Credit: Unsplash Stock

Timing can turn a good trail great (or miserable). In Brisbane’s warm climate, the smartest strategy is early mornings or late afternoons, especially in summer. 

The bush is far cooler and birdsong-rich in the pre-dawn and dusk hours. Aim to be back in town by midday when the sun is at its strongest – Queensland sun at lunchtime can be brutal. In winter (June–August), days are shorter and drier but chillier. 

Whatever the season, starting early lets you soak up wildlife activity (koalas and wallabies are often seen at dawn) and avoids the crowds. 

Watch the weather too - a Queensland arvo storm is no joke. Always check a local forecast and try to finish hikes before dark or before storms roll in. 

National parks sometimes close tracks if rain or fire danger spikes, so look up any alerts on the Queensland Parks website. 

Top Hiking Safety Tips & Local Rules

Brisbane’s parks are generally very safe, but a little common sense goes a long way. 

Always stay on marked trails and follow signs – Queensland Parks stresses this because wandering off-track can lead to getting lost or damaging fragile vegetation. If you do bring a four-legged mate, keep them on leash where required (many trails allow dogs only on footpaths, not in the bush).

Our top hiking tips around Brissie are:

• Tell someone your plan: Let a friend or family member know which trail you’re on and your expected return time - even better, go in a group. 
• Be weather-ready: Check for park alerts and know what to do in extreme weather (storms, bushfires, flash floods).
• Wildlife etiquette: Don’t feed or chase animals. If you spot snakes (most active in summer mornings), give them room – they generally move off quickly.
• Leave no trace: Brisbane’s parks say: pack it in, pack it out. Carry out all rubbish (be very careful with toilet waste too). 

Run, Hike, Rambla, Repeat

Now that your trail checklist is sorted, all that’s left is to hit the road (or track) and take in those Brisbane vistas. 

Ready for some post-hike R&R? Rambla is the perfect short-stay to make your base camp. 

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Stay at Rambla Perry House in Bowen Hills, South/ City/SQ in Woolloongabba, Berwick House in Fortitude Valley, or Story House at Kangaroo Point – each spot is in easy reach of trails, cafes and city life. After a day of hiking Brisbane’s best bushwalks or running its iconic routes, you’ll appreciate sinking into Rambla’s comfy beds (and maybe enjoying a cheeky beer on the rooftop bar). 

Booking direct gets you bonuses like complementary parking for when you have to drive to your hiking day out, and late check-out when you need a bit more recovery time. 

So lace up, map out your track, and enjoy every Brisbane bushwalk and run – and when you need to crash, Rambla is ready for you. 

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