Discover 7 Amazing Family-Friendly Hiking Trails in Ipswich and Brisbane
Explore the great outdoors with these perfect family adventures that combine fun, education, and stunning natural beauty right in your backyard. From easy strolls to exciting adventures, there's something for every family!
Don't forget to check out our blog about packing like a pro.
Mount Coot-tha Reserve: Brisbane's Accessible Adventure
Highlights:
Walk this family-friendly 1.9km trail with convenient rest benches and breathtaking city views at the top.
Visit this serene waterfall and enjoy the excellent picnic facilities perfect for a family day out.
Wildlife Spotting
Keep your eyes open for local echidnas, owls, microbats, and koalas that call the reserve home.
Just 15 minutes from Brisbane's city center, Mount Coot-tha offers the perfect introduction to family hiking with well-maintained, accessible trails and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities.
Highlights:
White Rock Multi-User Trail
Enjoy this 6.5km return trail suitable for walkers, mountain bikers, and horse riders, leading to the culturally significant White Rock formation.
Diverse Trail Options
Choose from various tracks ranging from easy to challenging, perfect for families with different abilities and energy levels.
Cultural Significance
Teach your children about respecting indigenous sites while enjoying the natural beauty. Remember not to climb on White Rock itself.
Located just 20 minutes from Ipswich CBD, this conservation estate offers adventure and cultural learning in one beautiful package.
Boondall Wetlands & Daisy Hill Conservation Park
Explore accessible boardwalks and bikeways through wetlands, mangroves, and forests – perfect for strollers and young children. Educational signage teaches families about local ecology and indigenous significance.
A paradise for birdwatchers with countless species to spot throughout the year.
Walk the easy 800m Tree Discovery Trail with interactive nature signs perfect for young explorers. Visit the free Koala Centre to learn about conservation efforts and see these iconic animals up close.
Beyond hiking, enjoy mountain biking trails and excellent picnic facilities for a full day of family fun.
Start your adventure at this welcoming picnic area with facilities and trail access to Chalk Circuit and Rocky Knoll Lookout.
Challenge older children with a hike to the highest peak in the area, offering spectacular panoramic views as your reward.
Extended Adventures
Make it more than a day trip with camping facilities, horse riding trails, and multiple hiking options to explore.
Wildlife Viewing
Spot native animals and birds throughout the diverse ecosystems within this extensive conservation area.
Located near Ipswich, this conservation estate offers adventures for families seeking everything from easy walks to challenging climbs, with excellent facilities throughout.
Additional Trails
Additional nearby trails include Karawatha Forest Park with its 1.5km Illaweena Circuit and interactive Discovery Centre, and Toohey Forest Park featuring the family-friendly 1.5km Nathan Ridge Track with gentle slopes perfect for younger hikers.
Family Hiking Tips
Plan Ahead
Check trail conditions before you go
Checkout the links for the trails listed about. There is lots of resources, including maps, hike lengths and difficulty.
Pack Essentials
Bring water, snacks, hats, and sunscreen.
Pack you Little Adventure Co. Backpack with all the essentials.
Engage Children
Create wildlife spotting games or nature journals
Take along one of our many unknown link to help capture life.
Remember to choose trails matching your family's abilities and take regular breaks to make hiking an enjoyable experience for everyone!
Tips for Family Hiking:
  • Preparation: Ensure everyone has comfortable footwear, hats, sunscreen, and ample water.​
  • Pacing: Choose trails that match your family's fitness levels and take regular breaks.​
  • Engagement: Encourage children to observe wildlife, identify plants, or even keep a nature journal to enhance their experience.​
Exploring these trails not only promotes physical activity but also fosters a deeper connection with nature. So, lace up your walking shoes, pack some snacks, and embark on an adventure that the whole family can enjoy!
Note: Trail conditions and accessibility can change. It's advisable to check the latest updates from official sources before planning your visit.