If there’s one thing we’ve learned since the cooler months kicked in, it’s that exercise is far less painful when it’s not in 98 per cent humidity. With outside temperatures now sitting at far more comfortable levels, there’s no better time of year to take advantage of the many walks and hikes the Sunshine Coast has to offer.
We’ve searched far and wide to find you some tracks that aren’t the same old spots you’ve seen in your Instagram feed every second day, and we think we’ve found a few gems!
Here are four walks or hikes to take around the Sunshine Coast for all fitness levels.
Buderim Forest Park Reserve
Most of you have probs heard of Buderim Forest Park, but have you ever actually been there? The time is now, peeps! Starting at either Harry’s Lane or Quorn Close, both paths will take you on a spectacular journey through Buderim Mountain’s tranquil bushland, with a soundtrack of birdsong and babbling brooks. All roads lead to the falls, and if you don’t have your togs on underneath your clothes, we warn you now: you will have serious FOMO. It’s hard to believe it’s real… we still pinch ourselves.
Buderim Forest Reserve
Stroll under the rainforest canopy at Buderim Forest Park Reserve.
Mount Ngungun
How do you get the best views of the Glass House Mountains? Climb one of them, of course! While they’ve all got their perks, if there’s one to add to the to-do list this autumn, it’s Mount Ngungun. With uninterrupted views of the neighbouring mountains, your Ngungun experience is guaranteed to put a spring in your step for the rest of the day. Any time is a good time to climb TBH, but we’re a sucker for a good sunrise. Phones charged and at the ready!
Mt Ngungun
Views that stretch forever from the top of Mount Ngungun. Photo: Jules Ingall.
Booloumba Falls
This one requires a tad more commitment than the rest, but we assure you, it’s SO worth the extra effort. Tucked away in the Conondale National Park, the Booloumba Falls track is a hinterland oasis … lush open rainforest, crystal-clear rock pools, and boulders bigger than you’ve ever laid eyes on! Head towards Maleny and follow the signs to Kenilworth, then pass through the town of Conondale and take the Booloumba Creek turn-off. Best to take a 4WD for those gravel roads, if poss. It also might be worth kicking it old school with a map, as phone reception can be a bit sketchy. A sense of adventure is a must!
Booloumba Falls
Bring your sense of adventure to Booloumba Falls.
Emu Mountain
If hikes were products, this one would have “BEST VALUE” stamped all over it. Just between Coolum and Peregian Beach, the Emu Mountain Summit Walk is a short hike with HUGE rewards. It kinda goes without saying that you’ll get great views from most mountains around here, but the stunning sights of the region’s mountain peaks, such as our majestic Mount Coolum, are just another perk. Make sure you also stop and smell the roses, literally… Emu Mountain is home to some beautiful flora! Perfect for a sunny autumn Sunday, we reckon.
Done them all? Here are some next-level Sunshine Coast hikes for you to conquer.