10 Queensland hiking spots great for travellers over 60

If you’ve been spending a little too much time indoors lately and want to begin getting in touch with nature while also keeping fit and active, then these Queensland hiking spots are the perfect starting point. Some of them are short enough to plan a day trip around them, while others are a big more strenuous if you want to test your fitness as well as enjoy the scenery. If you’re looking for ways to get out and enjoy the Queensland landscape, take a look at these hiking spots that are great for travellers over 60.

Read more: 5 majestic coastal hikes in Australia

1. Denmark Hill, Ipswich

If you live in or are visiting the west side of Brisbane, then you don’t have to look past Ipswich for a great hike. Head to the Denmark Hill Conservation Reserve which includes 200m and 800m walking tracks. Keep an eye out, because this is the perfect place to go birdwatching, too.

2. Cougal Cascades, Gold Coast Hinterlands

The Cougal Cascades track is a bitumen path, making it a great option for people in wheelchairs, or those who are worried about losing their footing on uneven ground. The walk is 1.6km long and there’s a great view of the a series of rock pools and waterfalls.

3. Sunshine Coast Hinterlands

Another shorter hiking track, but with a great lookout, is the Mount Beerburrum lookout track. There are beautiful 360 degree views of the Glass House Mountains, with just a 700m uphill walk to get there. 

4. Burleigh Heads National Park

The ocean view walking track in the Burleigh Heads National Park is a nice gentle option for bushwalkers looking to take in the scenery of the area. It is 1.3km one-way and you’ll find joggers in the area take this path, too. Just remember to keep left and don’t forget a bottle of water.

5. Mackay Highlands

The sugarcane capital comes alive in this pocket of national park. And if you’re worried that the 56km of terrain might be difficult to walk through, you’ll be happy to know that it’s almost entirely flat. No need to take the entire track, though, you can do bits and pieces at your own pace.

6. Mapleton Falls National Park

Set in the Sunshine Coast Hinterlands, Mapleton Falls National Park is another great option for travellers over 60. The Lookout and Wompoo Circuit is a 1.3km walk and you can stay in the area for the markets or a stop off at a local café for lunch.

7. Carnarvon National Park

With more than 21km of walking tracks, the Carnarvon National Park is a great place for experienced and first-time hikers alike. Keep an eye out for the indigenous rock art and the more than 150 species of bird found in the area.

8. Bartle Frere

Bartle Frere is Queensland’s tallest mountain at 1,622 meters tall and is particularly good for travellers over 60 looking for a challenge. The track is 15km long and takes approximately 12 hours to complete, starting at Josephine Falls.

9. Tinchi Tamba

This 380-hectare wetland reserve is the perfect place to hike and spend the day out. The 3km Island Circuit takes around one hour to complete and includes a walk along the mangroves, while the 1km Bird Hide track should take around 20 minutes and includes views of the water.

10. South Bank Rainforest Walk

You’d hardly believe you were in the heart of Brisbane city during a gentle stroll along South Bank’s Rainforest Walk. You’ll spot wildlife, subtropical plants and even a Nepalese Pagoda on your trip.

What are some of your favourite hikes in Queensland? Let us know in the comments section below.