Queensland is Australia's second-largest state, stretching from the subtropical southeast to the tropical north, encompassing the Great Barrier Reef, ancient rainforests, and over 7,000 kilometres of coastline. Known as the Sunshine State, it offers world-class diving, golden beaches, vibrant cities, and extraordinary wildlife experiences.
Top trails
Routes worth lacing up your boots for.
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1
Coastal Track, Noosa National Park
Queensland's most popular coastal walk, traversing the Noosa headland through coastal scrub with spectacular ocean views, secluded beaches including Tea Tree Bay, and excellent koala-spotting opportunities in the eucalyptus trees.
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2
Main Track, Lamington National Park (O'Reilly's)
The classic multi-day hiking route connecting O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat at Green Mountains to Binna Burra through Gondwana rainforest, crossing spectacular escarpments, waterfalls, and ancient Antarctic beech forest.
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3
Twin Falls Circuit, Springbrook National Park
A beautiful circular walk through Springbrook National Park leading to Twin Falls lookout with views of waterfalls cascading into the valley. Part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area.
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4
Carnarvon Gorge Main Track
The signature walk of Central Queensland, traversing the full length of Carnarvon Gorge and visiting the Cathedral Cave and Art Gallery with significant Aboriginal rock art. The gorge walls rise 200 m above the creek, and the walk crosses Carnarvon Creek multiple times.
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5
Mount Bartle Frere Summit Walk
Queensland's most challenging walk, ascending Queensland's highest peak (1,622 m) through five distinct vegetation zones from tropical lowland rainforest to cloud forest and high montane heath. Navigation skills required above 1,200 m as the track becomes indistinct.
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6
Cooloola Great Walk
A spectacular multi-day walk traversing the Cooloola section of Great Sandy National Park from Noosa Heads to Rainbow Beach, passing through diverse ecosystems including ancient wallum heathland, tall scribbly gum forests, coloured sand cliffs, and the Noosa River valley.
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7
Thorsborne Trail, Hinchinbrook Island
One of Australia's great wilderness walks along the eastern coast of Hinchinbrook Island — Queensland's largest national park island. The trail passes pristine beaches, estuaries with crocodiles, mangroves, and spectacular mountain rainforest.
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8
Purling Brook Falls Walk, Springbrook
A scenic walk leading to Purling Brook Falls in Springbrook National Park, one of southeast Queensland's most picturesque waterfalls cascading 109 metres into the valley below. The track passes through rainforest to both the top and base of the falls.
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9
Mount Ngungun Summit Walk, Glasshouse Mountains
The most accessible and rewarding summit walk in the Glasshouse Mountains, offering extraordinary panoramic views of the surrounding volcanic peaks and all the way to Moreton Bay and Brisbane on clear days.
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10
Wallaman Falls Circuit, Girringun National Park
A spectacular walk descending to the base of Wallaman Falls — Australia's highest permanent single-drop waterfall at 268 metres — through tropical rainforest. The descent involves steep sections and creek crossings.
Trail difficulty levels
Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.
Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.
Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.
Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.
Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.
Local hazards
What to watch out for on the trail.
Sudden weather changes — always carry rain gear and warm layers.
Wildlife encounters — make noise on the trail and store food properly.
Trail conditions can deteriorate after rain — check recent reports before setting out.