Walking Trails & Trekking on the Sunshine Coast

Few places in Australia blend ocean, forest, and mountain beauty like the Sunshine Coast. Stretching from Caloundra to Noosa and deep into the hinterland, this region offers countless ways to explore nature — from sunrise climbs and rainforest strolls to multi-day treks through untouched wilderness.

Whether you’re chasing panoramic coastal views, cooling off at hidden waterfalls, or wandering among ancient trees, every trail here promises something special. Each path is easy to access, clearly marked, and often close to cafés, picnic spots, or lookouts — perfect for both casual walkers and adventure seekers.

Here’s your ultimate guide to the best Sunshine Coast walking trails — with highlights, distances, and insider tips to make your next outdoor escape unforgettable.

A short yet steep climb that rewards hikers with breathtaking 360° coastal views. The track winds up volcanic rock steps surrounded by native bushland before opening to sweeping scenes of the Coral Sea, Coolum Beach, and the Glass House Mountains.

Best enjoyed at sunrise or sunset, this quick adventure delivers big rewards for effort — ideal for locals and visitors wanting a morning fitness challenge or a golden-hour photo spot.
📏 Distance/Duration: 1.6 km return | ~1.5 hours
📍 Location: Mount Coolum QLD 4573
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👥 Best For: Sunrise seekers, short hikes, fitness walks

Located in the Glass House Mountains National Park, this moderate trail leads through open forest and rocky outcrops before reaching one of Queensland’s most scenic lookouts. From the top, hikers enjoy uninterrupted views of Mount Tibrogargan, Mount Beerwah, and rolling hinterland valleys.

It’s a popular sunrise and sunset spot, with plenty of flat rock ledges for sitting, relaxing, and taking photos. Families, couples, and solo hikers alike love its accessibility and stunning payoff.

 📏 Distance/Duration: 2.8 km return | 1.5–2 hours
📍 Location: Glass House Mountains National Park
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👥 Best For: Scenic views, families, weekend hikes

One of the Sunshine Coast’s signature waterfall walks. This lush rainforest trail descends through ferns and palms, crossing a suspension bridge before reaching Kondalilla Falls, where cool mist and rock pools await.

Along the way, you’ll pass lookouts with incredible views over the valley — perfect for rest stops or photos. Take a dip in the pools below the falls or enjoy a quiet picnic surrounded by nature.

 📏 Distance/Duration: 4.7 km loop | 2–3 hours
📍 Location: Kondalilla National Park, near Montville
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👥 Best For: Waterfall lovers, nature walks, summer dips

This peaceful, family-friendly walk offers a gentle journey through subtropical rainforest filled with towering trees, strangler figs, and the calls of native birds. Elevated boardwalks make it easy for all ages, and the lookout platform provides stunning views of the Glass House Mountains.

The reserve also includes a visitor centre, café, and educational displays about local ecology — making it a great half-day trip for nature lovers. 📏 Distance/Duration: 1.3–1.7 km | Easy walk
📍 Location: Maleny, Sunshine Coast
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👥 Best For: Families, beginners, relaxing nature walks

Follow a spectacular trail that hugs the coastline from Noosa Main Beach to Hell’s Gates. The path weaves along cliffs, hidden bays, and sandy coves — with frequent wildlife sightings including koalas, turtles, and dolphins.

You’ll pass Tea Tree Bay, Granite Bay, and Alexandria Bay, all perfect for short rest stops or swims. With its mix of nature and ocean energy, this walk captures the true spirit of the Sunshine Coast.

 📏 Distance/Duration: 10.8 km return | 3–4 hours
📍 Location: Noosa National Park
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👥 Best For: Coastal explorers, wildlife spotting, day trips

A 73 km route connecting beaches, parks, and coastal towns from Bells Creek to Coolum. Walk, jog, or cycle sections of this scenic path to experience the best of the Sunshine Coast shoreline. Along the way, you’ll find picnic areas, playgrounds, cafés, and lookouts — making it ideal for both casual strolls and active full-day adventures.
📏 Distance/Duration: 73 km total | Choose your section
📍 Location: Sunshine Coast coastline
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👥 Best For: Active travelers, cyclists, beachside walks

This multi-day trek links Mapleton Falls, Kondalilla, and Mapleton National Parks, showcasing rainforest, eucalypt forest, waterfalls, and wildlife. Camp along the way or tackle individual sections for shorter day hikes. It’s a must for experienced hikers seeking quiet, wild beauty and panoramic views from lookout points.

 📏 Distance/Duration: 58.8 km | ~4 days
📍 Location: From Kondalilla to Mapleton
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👥 Best For: Hikers, campers, adventure seekers

Step back in time on this easy forest trail that leads to the 1891 heritage railway tunnel, now surrounded by eucalypt forest and home to bats and microbats. The flat, shaded path is great for families and beginner hikers. It’s also popular with cyclists and history lovers who want a light adventure close to town.
📏 Distance/Duration: 2 km return | Easy
📍 Location: Dularcha National Park, Landsborough
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👥 Best For: History lovers, kids, light walks

A peaceful rainforest escape just minutes from Buderim town centre. Follow the shaded boardwalk through ferns and palms to reach Serenity Falls, a small but picturesque waterfall framed by a wooden bridge.

This short trail is perfect for an easy morning walk or an after-lunch stroll surrounded by cool greenery.

 📏 Distance/Duration: 1.5 km return | Easy
📍 Location: Buderim, Sunshine Coast
🗺️ View on Google Maps

 👥 Best For: Relaxing nature escapes, short hikes