Bushwalking
Short, easy strolls are a great way to introduce the family to the natural wonders Queensland’s parks. Photo: Robert Ashdown, NPRSR.
Every day, hundreds of people flock to Queensland’s national parks and protected areas to enjoy the pleasure of a bush picnic, seeing native birds and animals in the wild, or to simply just relax.
If you’re looking for a close encounter with nature, why not try bushwalking? Walking tracks can take you to places you won’t reach in a car and most are graded to make walking easy.
Take a walk and get close to delicate ferns beside the track, look up through leafy branches to towering tree tops, catch a glimpse of a yellow robin flitting among overhanging branches or gaze in wonder at picture-perfect views. Connecting with nature will leave you feeling refreshed and invigorated.
Before setting out, choose your park and track carefully. Plan to walk early morning to avoid the heat of the day or mid-week to avoid crowds. Pick a walk that suits your time and fitness level – from a short walk with a stroller or a well graded walk for wheelchairs to longer hikes that need higher levels of stamina.
Remember to always walk safely and walk softly.
Where you can bushwalk
Short walks
The options for short walks through Queensland’s parks are virtually endless. For recommendations on the best of these, see family and friends experiences.
Find out which parks offer easy, short walk opportunities by region:
Around Brisbane | Around Townsville | Cape York Peninsula | Central Coast | Central Highlands | Mackay/Proserpine | North Queensland | Outback Queensland | Sunshine Coast | West of Brisbane |
Harder or longer walks
When you are looking for a more challenging bushwalking experience, get off the beaten track and go hiking. For recommendations on the best hikes, including the Great Walks, see off the beaten track experiences.
Permits and fees
You will not generally require a special permit, except for commercial activities, organised group rides and competitive events.
Last updated 2 May 2012