G'day, keen bushwalkers and nature lovers! Searching for top-notch hiking tracks around Brisbane? You're bang on target. Brissie's locals have the inside scoop on a treasure trove of brilliant bushwalks, ranging from verdant rainforests to scenic coastal paths, catering to walkers of all stripes. This guide's got you covered with a selection of the finest trails in the Brisbane region. Gear up to soak in the splendour of this remarkable city and its surrounds.

Mount Coot-tha Summit Track

First up on our list of must-visit places to hike Brisbane is the iconic Mount Coot-tha Summit Track. Located just a stone's throw from the CBD, this ripper of a trail offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and the surrounding bushland. The track is a 5.4km return journey, with a moderate difficulty level suitable for most fitness levels, you don't have to be a pro to give it a burl. As you make your way up the mountain, you'll pass through classic Aussie eucalyptus forests and spot native wildlife like kookaburras and wallabies. Keep an eye out for the cheeky brush turkeys too, they're always up for a laugh. The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, so you won't have to worry about getting lost in the bush. Once you reach the summit, you'll be gobsmacked by the panoramic views stretching from the Brisbane River to Moreton Bay. It's like a postcard come to life! Take a moment to catch your breath and soak in the stunning scenery before heading back down. And if you're feeling a bit peckish after the hike, why not treat yourself to a snag from the summit cafe? You've earned it, mate!

The Mount Coot-tha Summit Track is easily one of the best hiking trails Brisbane has to offer. It's a great way to get some fresh air, stretch your legs, and appreciate the natural beauty of this amazing city. Plus, it's so close to the CBD that you can easily tackle it before brekky or after work. No excuses not to give it a go! One thing to keep in mind is that the trail can get a bit crowded on weekends and holidays, if you're looking for a more peaceful hike, try going on a weekday or early in the morning. 

Enoggera Reservoir

Next on our list of top hiking trails in Brisbane is the Enoggera Reservoir. This little ripper is located smack bang in the middle of The Gap, just a quick 20-minute drive from the city centre. The reservoir offers a variety of walking trails Brisbane locals can't get enough of, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes that'll get your heart pumping. One of my favourite tracks is the Araucaria Circuit, a 5km loop those winds through towering hoop pine forests and along the banks of the reservoir. It's like stepping into another world, with the ancient trees creating a cathedral-like canopy overhead. Keep an eye out for the resident brush turkeys and water dragons along the way – they're always keen for a chat!

The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, with plenty of spots to stop and take in the stunning scenery. You might even spot some keen locals taking a dip in the reservoir on a hot day – just remember to check the water quality before diving in!

For a longer hike, try the Enoggera Reservoir Circuit, an 8km track that offers jaw-dropping views of the water and surrounding bushland. This one's a bit more challenging, with some steep sections and rough terrain, but it's worth the effort. You'll feel like you're a million miles away from the city, with nothing but the sound of birdsong and the wind in the trees to keep you company. One of the best things about hiking spots Brisbane like Enoggera Reservoir is how accessible they are. You don't need to be a hardcore hiker or have a ton of fancy gear to enjoy these trails. Just slap on some sunscreen, bring plenty of water, and wear some sturdy shoes, and you're good to go. That said, it's always a good idea to check the weather forecast before heading out, especially during the hotter months. The Aussie sun can be brutal, even on shorter hikes near Brisbane, make sure you're prepared with a hat, sunglasses, and maybe even a cheeky SPF lip balm.

Boondall Wetlands

If you're keen for a unique hiking experience, head to the Boondall Wetlands in Brisbane's north. This incredible wetland reserve is home to over 190 species of birds, as well as a variety of other native wildlife that'll make you feel like you're on a proper Aussie safari. The reserve offers several hiking trails near Brisbane that showcase diversity of this important ecosystem, and you won't be disappointed.  

One of the best tracks is the Boondall Wetlands Circuit, a 7.4km return journey that'll take you through mangrove forests, salt marshes, and paperbark swamps. It's like walking through a different world, with the sounds of birdsong and the rustling of leaves all around you. Along the way, you'll have the chance to spot everything from rainbow bee-eaters to saltwater crocs (don't worry, they're usually pretty shy!). Just make sure you keep your eyes peeled and your camera ready – you never know what you might see! The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, with boardwalks and bridges to help you navigate the wetter sections. But be warned – the wetlands can get pretty steamy during summer, make sure you bring plenty of water and some hardcore insect repellent. The mozzies out here are no joke!

One of the things I love most about hiking spots Brisbane like Boondall Wetlands is how they offer a chance to learn about the local environment and the critters that call it home. The reserve has some great informational signage along the way, you can read up on the different plant and animal species you might encounter. It's like a mini biology lesson, but way more fun! If you're really keen to learn more, you can even join one of the guided walks or talks that the reserve offers. These are led by knowledgeable rangers who can tell you all sorts of fascinating facts about the wetlands and the animals that live there. It's a great way to deepen your appreciation for this unique ecosystem and the important role it plays in the local environment.

Of course, you don't have to be a biology nerd to enjoy the hiking trails in Brisbane like Boondall Wetlands. Even if you're just looking for a nice walk-in nature, this place is sure to impress. The trails are suitable for all skill levels, so whether you're a seasoned hiker or a total newbie, you'll find a path that suits you. Just remember to respect the environment and the wildlife while you're out there. Stick to the designated trails, don't litter, and definitely don't try to pat the crocs (Yo! Seriously, don't do it).

Daisy Hill Conservation Park

Another one of my favourite places to hike in Brisbane is the Daisy Hill Conservation Park, located just a short 25km drive south of the city. This park is an absolute ripper, home to a thriving koala population that'll make you feel like you're in a real-life episode of "Crocodile Hunter." But it's not just the koalas that make this place special – the park is also home to a variety of other native animals like wallabies, echidnas, and sugar gliders that are sure to put a smile on your dial. The park offers several well-maintained walking trails Brisbane visitors and locals alike can enjoy, each one showcasing a different aspect of the park's unique beauty. The Paperbark Trail is a gentle 1.4km circuit that's perfect for families with ankle biters, while the more challenging Stringybark Trail offers a 4.3km loop through the park's towering eucalyptus forests. Keep your eyes peeled for koalas snoozing in the branches above – they're the real stars of the show!

One of the things I love most about Daisy Hill Conservation Park is how accessible it is. You don't have to be a hardcore bushwalker to enjoy the hiking trails near Brisbane like this one. The trails are well-marked and easy to follow, with plenty of spots to stop and take in the stunning scenery. And if you're lucky, you might even spot a koala or two along the way! If you're keen to learn more about the park's fascinating ecology and wildlife, you can join one of the guided walks or talks offered by the park rangers. These are a great way to deepen your appreciation for the unique environment of Daisy Hill and the important role it plays in conserving our native species. Plus, the rangers always have a few good yarns up their sleeves, you're sure to have a laugh while you learn.

Of course, no visit to Daisy Hill Conservation Park would be complete without a stop at the Koala Centre. This state-of-the-art facility is home to several rescued koalas, as well as some fascinating exhibits on koala biology and conservation. It's a great place to learn more about these iconic Aussie animals and the challenges they face in the wild. But even if you're not a koala fanatic, there's plenty to love about Daisy Hill Conservation Park. The park is a great spot for a picnic or a barbecue, with plenty of shaded areas and picnic tables to choose from. And if you're feeling really adventurous, you can even camp out under the stars in one of the park's designated camping areas.

Bunyaville Conservation Park

Last but not least on our list of top hiking spots Brisbane has to offer is the Bunyaville Conservation Park. Located in the city's northwest, this park is a hidden oasis of natural bushland and walking tracks that'll make you feel like you're a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of the city. One of the best trails in the park is the Bunyaville Track, a 6.5km return journey that'll take you through open eucalyptus forests and along the banks of the South Pine River. It's a real beaut of a hike, with plenty of shade and opportunities to spot native birds like cockatoos and lorikeets along the way. You might even spot a kookaburra or two if you're lucky – just don't try to feed them, or you might end up with a nasty surprise! The track is well-maintained and easy to follow, with plenty of spots to stop and take in the stunning scenery. And if you're feeling really adventurous, you can even take a dip in one of the swimming holes along the way – just make sure you check the water quality first and watch out for any cheeky eels that might be lurking about.

For a shorter hike, try the Poets Rock Circuit, a 2.5km loop that offers jaw-dropping views of the surrounding bushland. This one's a bit more challenging than the Bunyaville Track, with some steep sections and rocky terrain, but it's worth the effort. You'll feel like you're on top of the world when you reach the summit, with panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys stretching out before you. One of the things I love most about Bunyaville Conservation Park is how it offers a real taste of the Aussie bush right on Brisbane's doorstep. The park is home to a variety of native plant and animal species, from towering eucalyptus trees to cute and cuddly koalas. And with over 15km of walking trails Brisbane locals and visitors can explore, there's no shortage of opportunities to get up close and personal with nature.

But Bunyaville Conservation Park isn't just a great spot for hiking – it's also a ripper place for a picnic or a barbecue. The park has plenty of shaded picnic areas and barbecue facilities, so you can make a day of it and really soak up the natural beauty of the area. Just make sure you clean up after yourself and take your rubbish with you – we want to keep this place looking spick and span for generations to come. So, if you're looking for a true-blue Aussie hiking experience that's not too far from the city, Bunyaville Conservation Park is definitely worth checking out. With its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and range of hiking trails near Brisbane, it's no wonder this park is a favourite among locals and visitors alike.

If you're keen to make a weekend of it, why not book a spot at one of the park's camping grounds and really immerse yourself in the great outdoors? There's nothing quite like falling asleep to the sound of the bush at night and waking up to the call of the kookaburra in the morning. Brisbane may be known for its city life and beaches, but it's also home to some of the most incredible hiking trails near Brisbane. What are you waiting for? Grab your hiking boots, pack a backpack, and hit the walking trails Brisbane has to offer. Trust me, you won't be disappointed. And who knows – you might just discover your new favourite places to hike Brisbane along the way. Happy hiking, mates!