The idea of lacing up the hiking boots and hitting the trails is one that many Queensland locals and tourists alike just can’t get enough of. With the Sunshine state absolutely jam-packed with walking tracks that take full advantage of the famous landscapes QLD is renowned for. From the exquisite rainforests of the far north & the top-notch beaches of the Sunny Coast to the many hiking trails that scatter the interior, QLD truly is a paradise for hikers young and old. The team at BCF have put together a list of the top QLD hikes you can do in a day that ensure you and the crew get the steps up and have some BCFing fun doing it! So don’t wait, grab the hiking boots and hit these cracker trails today.
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Warrie Circuit, Springbrook National Park
Part of the heritage listed Gondwana rainforest, Springbrook National Park truly is a feast for your senses. Located only 60 minutes from the hustle and bustle of the Gold Coast, this hinterland escape will make you feel like you’re on a different planet. It’s easy to forget where you are once the beauty and tranquillity of this stunning rainforest takes hold of you, with waterfalls a plenty and some of the most stunning views in the region around you. Warrie Circuit is the largest in a group of walking tracks found in the Springbrook National Park, taking you from the top of a stunning canyon down to the forest floor and back up again in a 14km looped track. Due to its convenient proximity to both the Goldy and Brisbane, it’s a ripper option for weekenders and day trippers alike. This hike takes a roughly 5-6 hours to complete, but don’t rush - it’s well worth going at a slower pace so you can really soak in the experience. Be sure to bring your swimmers as there’s no better way to cool off than a dip under a waterfall after a long walk. Keep in mind leeches inhabit the area and will be more than happy to join you for lunch. It’s advised to only attempt the Warrie Circuit if you’re an experienced walker as it’s been given an intermediate difficulty rating. Make sure you also bring along a good pair of hiking boots and enough water to keep you going the duration of the hike.
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Noosa National Park, Coastal Track
When you think of the Sunny Coast one of the first places that springs to mind is the beautiful and laid-back Noosa. Not only is this quaint little town an absolute must for surfers with some of the best point breaks in the world, but it’s also well worth a squiz for those who don’t mind the odd walk from time to time. Situated an easy 2-hour drive from Brisbane, it’s no surprise that Noosa has become such a sought-after holiday destination. The Noosa National Park is a beautiful part of the world with a trail that follows the coastline all the way from the popular Hastings Street to Sunshine Beach in the east. The trail passes many picturesque and secluded beaches where you can stop for a dip or simply laze the day away. There are several lookouts along the track where you can snap a pic and hopefully spot one of the local marine creatures that call this place home. Talking about creatures - keep your eyes peeled, as Koalas frequent the track to feed on the abundant eucalypt trees and maybe check out the surf. Stretching for 5.4km each way, the one-way journey is a nice easy walk that almost anyone can enjoy. If you prefer a longer hike, the 10.8km round trip journey is an awesome way to spend the day.
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Box Forest Circuit, Lamington National Park
The Box Forest Circuit is one track that’s gone relatively under the radar for many hiking tragics. As part of the Lamington National Park, this ripper has plenty to offer the more experienced hiker. Located in the Gold Coast hinterland this is another trail that shouldn’t be missed, showing off stunning rainforest scenery and a multitude of waterfalls that’ll have you reaching for the camera at almost every step. It’s not the only option in the Lamington with a variety of different tracks including the Toolona Creek circuit and the Border Track just to name a few, but there’s something special about this circuit that you’re sure to enjoy. At a length of 10.9km you should be able to knock it over in roughly 5 hours, but to make the most of this epic adventure it’s better to pack a picnic and take your time. Caution should be taken if it’s been raining as it can turn the track into a different animal entirely, which is ultimately why it’s been given an intermediate difficulty rating. Make sure you pack your insect spray, the appropriate amount of H2O and some hiking poles if you’ve got them handy.
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Upper Gorge Walk, Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park
340km north-west of Mount Isa lies Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park, a tropical oasis like no other. Although this picture-perfect destination may be in the middle of nowhere, it really is a place that everyone should visit at least once in their life. It’s emerald-coloured waters and abundant flora and fauna will leave you speechless, with over 800 different species of plant-life that’ll help provide respite from the scorching Aussie sun. When it comes to animals there’s no place better, with 1000+ creatures of all shapes and sizes calling this National Park home. Now getting back on track (pardon the pun), it’s the hiking trails we are here to talk about! There’s plenty on offer at Lawn Hill, but the longest and arguably the best would have to be the Upper Gorge Walk. Stretching for 3.6km each way this beauty meanders along the edge of the gorge while providing sensational scenery that’ll easily knock your socks off. This challenging track is an absolute ripper but should only be attempted by experienced bushwalkers as the cliffside terrain is quite hilly. For your safety stick to the tracks and steer clear of any steep cliffs or large drop-offs that may create hazards. Due to its location, we would only recommend you tackling this bad boy in the early morn’ to avoid the excessive heat of Queensland’s north-west.
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Andrews Point Track, Cape Hillsborough National Park
The further north you head the more exquisite our coastline becomes, with beautiful turquoise waters and some of the best island views you’ll find anywhere. Cape Hillsborough National Park should be on every hiker’s to-do list, with dense rainforests & deserted beaches, not to mention some absolutely stunning lookouts. Conveniently located just 50km north of Mackay, Cape Hillsborough is home to the Andrews Point Track, a relatively difficult walk that’s stunning coastal views make it well worth the effort. This track follows a ridgeline that snakes its way to the top, where a multitude of lookouts are waiting for you. Gazing over the ocean you’ll be able to see many islands including Keswick, St Bees, and Brampton but also keep your eyes peeled for turtles and dolphins that frequent the area. Be sure to pack the camera as the diverse landscapes make for a ripper addition to the photo album. Once you’ve finished admiring the scenery and the SD card is full, you’ll slowly wind your way back down to the beach below. At a length of 5.2km return it’s an awesome way to spend a couple of hours. Take note of the tides before you attempt this climb, as if you’re fortunate enough to hit the beach on a falling tide it allows you to cross the causeway to Wedge Island for a bit of a sticky beak.
So, there you have it! 5 hiking tracks that each can be knocked over in under a day. We know there are plenty more trails that could have been added to the list but let’s leave them for next time. No matter where you are in this great state there’ll be somewhere you can take a stroll just around the corner, and if you need any supplies before you hit the track there’s sure to be a BCF store close by too. The best part is that you don’t have to wait until your next big holiday to hit these trails. Check ‘em out on your next spare day and fill the lungs with some of the freshest air you’ll ever find.