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Your Guide to Queensland's Hiking Trails: Photos, Filters, and FAQs

335 Hiking Trails

View Trails on map
Airlie Beach Banana Shire Brisbane Brisbane City Bundaberg Bundaberg Region Bunya Mountains Burke Burke Shire Cairns Cairns Regional Cape Tribulation Cardwell Cassowary Coast Cassowary Coast Regional Central Highlands Central Highlands Regional Charters Towers Regional Chillagoe Cook Cook Shire Douglas Shire Enoggera Reservoir Etheridge Shire Fraser Coast Fraser Coast Regional Gladstone Gold Coast Gordonvale Gympie Gympie Regional Hinchinbrook Shire Ipswich Isaac Regional Livingstone Shire Lockyer Valley Mackay Mackay Regional Mareeba Shire Mena Creek Moogerah Moreton Bay Moreton Bay Regional Moreton Island Noosa Shire North Burnett North Burnett Regional Pomona Queensland Rainbow Beach Redland Redland City Rockhampton Scenic Rim Scenic Rim Regional Seventeen Seventy Shute Harbour Somerset Regional South Burnett South Burnett Regional Southern Downs Southern Downs Regional Sunshine Coast Tablelands Tablelands Regional Thargomindah Toowoomba Regional Townsville Townsville City Western Downs Regional Whitsunday Whitsunday Regional Winton
Queensland Static Map Photo 1 Photo 1 Photo 1 Photo 1

What to expect

Queensland has 335 trails including difficult, medium, easy, and extra difficult trails. The trail with the highest elevation climb is the Birdhide Walk and the one with the least climb is the Bartle Frere Trail. The longest trail is Brisbane Valley Rail Trail at 163 km. To complete this hike you should budget at least 7 days. For a shorter adventure, you can try the North Cliff Track a t 791 m. This could be done in as little as 1 days. Trails with the best offering of hostels include Constance Range Track, Somerset Trail, Shelly Beach Trail, Mount Beerwah Trail, and Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk.

Guide to hiking in Queensland

Be prepared for hiking in Queensland with the HiiKER app

Hiking app for Queensland
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FAQs about hiking in Queensland

What is the climate like for hiking in Queensland?

Queensland’s climate fluctuates between a warm tropical and subtropical weather, making it generally pleasant for hikers. The summer months, December to February, can be hot and humid with a higher chance of thunderstorms, which may create challenging conditions for hikers due to muggy trails and potential floodings.


The most amiable time for hiking in Queensland is from April to October during the autumn, winter, and spring months. The climate during these periods is cooler and less humid, and there is a reduced likelihood of encountering heavy rains or thunderstorms, providing a safer and more comfortable environment for hiking activities.


However, it's essential to note that even during these periods, weather conditions can change rapidly. Therefore, hikers are encouraged to check the weather forecast and local advice before setting out. Queensland's Bureau of Meteorology (http://www.bom.gov.au/qld/) is an excellent resource for the most up-to-date weather information.

Do I need a permit to hike in Queensland?

In Queensland, hiking in certain national parks or protected areas may require permits. The Queensland Government's Department of Environment and Science handles permit applications, accessible online at the Queensland National Parks Booking Service (https://qpws.usedirect.com/QPWS/). Permits must be obtained prior to your trip to ensure legal and responsible exploration of Queensland's natural beauty.

Is wild camping allowed in Queensland?

Wild camping, or free camping, is not generally permitted in Queensland, especially within national parks, to protect the environment. Specific designated camping areas exist and often require booking through the Queensland National Parks Booking Service (https://qpws.usedirect.com/QPWS/). Hikers are encouraged to respect these regulations to maintain the natural beauty of the area.

Are there mountain rescue services in Queensland?

In Queensland, hikers in need of emergency mountain rescue services should contact Triple Zero (000) for assistance. The Queensland Police Service's Search and Rescue team works closely with other agencies to respond to such incidents. For more safety tips, visit Queensland Government's hiking safety guide https://www.healthier.qld.gov.au/guide/hiking-safety/

Are there dangerous plants in Queensland?

Queensland's varied ecosystems harbor a diversity of flora, from mangroves in coastal areas to eucalyptus in the highlands, impacting hikers' experiences. Be mindful of unique species like stinging trees and wait-a-while vines in rainforests, as they can cause discomfort. Queensland's Department of Environment and Science's website (https://environment.des.qld.gov.au/) offers further insight.

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Queensland?

In Queensland, hikers may encounter diverse wildlife, from kangaroos in bushlands to unique insects in rainforests. Some, like the saltwater crocodile or venomous spiders, require caution. The Queensland Museum's wildlife guide (https://www.qm.qld.gov.au/Find+out+about/Animals+of+Queensland) provides comprehensive information for safe and informed exploration.