National Parks in Queensland
National Park Guide
Queensland is home to more than 50 national parks, a collection that safeguards a significant portion of the state's natural heritage. These protected areas span diverse landscapes, from the ancient tropical rainforests and coastal heathlands of the Wet Tropics and Great Sandy regions to the rugged volcanic plugs and savanna woodlands found further inland. The terrain includes sandy beaches, dense forests, deep gorges, and mountainous escarpments. This variety of environments provides extensive opportunities for human-powered outdoor activities such as hiking,…
1629
Routes
4.5
(2666)
Average rating
57K+
Explored with komoot
Last updated: April 23, 2026
4.7
(240)
7,108
hikers
#1.
Noosa National Park
Noosa National Park in Queensland, Australia, offers diverse ecosystems and terrain for hiking, cycling, and jogging across numerous routes.
Hiking
Running
Mountain biking
Gravel riding
Road cycling
Cycling
4.5
(188)
3,576
hikers
#2.
D'Aguilar National Park
D'Aguilar National Park, northwest of Brisbane, offers diverse woodlands and rainforests for hiking, mountain biking, and cycling. Its varied terrain provides numerous routes for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hiking
Running
Mountain biking
Gravel riding
Road cycling
Cycling
4.6
(104)
3,442
hikers
#3.
Tewantin National Park
Tewantin National Park offers diverse landscapes from rainforest to eucalypt forest, perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and road cycling routes. Explore over 50 routes for various outdoor pursuits.
Hiking
Running
Mountain biking
Gravel riding
Road cycling
Cycling
4.5
(46)
3,000
hikers
#4.
Grey Peaks National Park
Grey Peaks National Park in Far North Queensland offers diverse routes for hiking, jogging, road cycling, and touring cycling in a protected sclerophyll and rainforest landscape.
Hiking
Running
Road cycling
Cycling
4.7
(99)
2,426
hikers
#5.
Mooloolah River National Park
Mooloolah River National Park offers diverse coastal lowland habitats for jogging, mountain biking, hiking, and touring cycling routes through swamps, forests, and heathlands.
Hiking
Running
Mountain biking
Road cycling
Cycling
4.4
(57)
2,336
hikers
#6.
Great Sandy National Park
Great Sandy National Park features diverse landscapes, including the world's largest sand island, K'Gari, offering varied terrain for hiking, cycling, and more.
Hiking
Running
Mountain biking
Gravel riding
Road cycling
Cycling
4.4
(93)
2,325
hikers
#7.
Barron Gorge National Park
Barron Gorge National Park in Queensland, Australia, features rugged, rainforest-clad mountains, deep gorges, and significant waterfalls, offering diverse routes for hiking and cycling.
Hiking
Running
Mountain biking
Road cycling
Cycling
4.6
(62)
2,325
hikers
#8.
Dinden National Park
Dinden National Park offers diverse landscapes, from rainforest to eucalypt woodland, with routes for hiking, road cycling, touring cycling, and mountain biking.
Hiking
Running
Mountain biking
Road cycling
Cycling
4.8
(43)
1,844
hikers
#9.
Mount Coolum National Park
Mount Coolum National Park, defined by its volcanic dome, offers diverse ecosystems and routes for hiking, road cycling, and mountain biking.
Hiking
Running
Mountain biking
Road cycling
Cycling
4.4
(84)
1,699
hikers
#10.
Kuranda National Park
Kuranda National Park offers diverse outdoor activities like hiking, jogging, and cycling through mountainous rainforest and eucalypt forest in Far North Queensland.
Hiking
Running
Mountain biking
Road cycling
Cycling
4.2
(61)
1,611
hikers
#11.
Mount Lewis National Park
Mount Lewis National Park in Far North Queensland offers diverse hiking, jogging, and road cycling routes through ancient upland rainforests and mountainous terrain.
Hiking
Running
Road cycling
4.6
(145)
1,591
hikers
#12.
Conway National Park
Conway National Park protects diverse landscapes, from tropical rainforests to rugged cliffs, offering numerous routes for hiking and jogging along the Whitsunday coastline.
Hiking
Running
4.2
(48)
1,536
hikers
#13.
Venman Bushland National Park
Venman Bushland National Park offers tranquil eucalypt forests and melaleuca swamps southeast of Brisbane, with routes for hiking, jogging, and cycling.
Hiking
Running
Mountain biking
Road cycling
Cycling
4.6
(124)
1,463
hikers
#14.
Dryander National Park
Dryander National Park features rugged mountains, extensive coastline, and lush forests, offering diverse routes for jogging and hiking.
Hiking
Running
4.5
(70)
1,395
hikers
#15.
Daintree National Park
Daintree National Park features ancient tropical rainforest where it meets the Great Barrier Reef, offering diverse terrain for outdoor activities like hiking.
Hiking
4.4
(62)
1,340
hikers
#16.
Macalister Range National Park
Macalister Range National Park protects a rugged, forested range in Tropical North Queensland, offering diverse terrain for hiking, mountain biking, and road cycling.
Hiking
Running
Mountain biking
Road cycling
Cycling
4.6
(70)
1,316
hikers
#17.
Mapleton National Park
Mapleton National Park in Queensland, Australia, offers diverse volcanic terrain and forests for hiking, cycling, and jogging, featuring waterfalls and varied routes.
Hiking
Running
Mountain biking
Road cycling
Cycling
4.7
(58)
1,187
hikers
#18.
Molle Islands National Park
Molle Islands National Park, part of the Great Barrier Reef, offers diverse landscapes from eucalypt forests to sandy beaches, with routes for hiking and jogging.
Hiking
Running
4.7
(57)
1,130
hikers
#19.
Bribie Island National Park
Bribie Island National Park offers diverse ecosystems, from sand dunes to wetlands, with routes for cycling, jogging, and mountain biking.
Hiking
Running
Mountain biking
Road cycling
Cycling
4.6
(65)
1,034
hikers
#20.
Maleny National Park
Maleny National Park offers lush subtropical rainforests and open eucalypt forests in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, with routes for hiking, jogging, and mountain biking.
Hiking
Running
Mountain biking
Cycling
Most popular routes in Queensland
Frequently Asked Questions
What are national parks in Queensland?
Queensland's national parks are protected areas that conserve a wide range of natural environments, from ancient rainforests and coastal heathlands to volcanic peaks and savanna woodlands. This page aggregates routes and information for 54 of these parks, covering activities like hiking, cycling, and mountain biking across more than 1,600 trails.
What are some notable national parks in Queensland?
Queensland has over 200 national parks. Some of the most well-known for outdoor recreation include Noosa National Park for its coastal routes, D'Aguilar National Park with its extensive forests near Brisbane, and Great Sandy National Park, which includes the world's largest sand island, K'gari.
What activities can be done in Queensland's national parks?
The primary activities are human-powered outdoor sports. Hiking is the most common, with options for all levels. Cycling is also prevalent, with routes for both road cycling and touring. Many parks, such as Tewantin National Park, offer dedicated mountain bike trails.
What kind of hiking is available in Queensland's national parks?
There are over 1,600 routes available, offering a wide variety of hiking experiences. These range from short, accessible boardwalks in rainforests like those in Barron Gorge National Park to challenging multi-day treks in remote areas. The terrain can include coastal paths, mountain ascents, and deep gorge trails.
Are there mountain biking trails in Queensland's national parks?
Yes, several national parks in Queensland have designated mountain bike trails. For example, Mooloolah River National Park and Dinden National Park feature networks of trails suitable for mountain biking, traversing diverse terrains from heathlands to eucalypt woodlands.
What are the trail conditions like in D'Aguilar National Park?
D'Aguilar National Park offers a mix of woodlands and rainforests with varied terrain. The park contains over 50 distinct hiking trails and numerous cycling routes. Elevation and difficulty range from gentle walks on sealed paths to steep, rugged tracks for experienced hikers and mountain bikers.
What kind of routes are in Noosa National Park?
Noosa National Park is known for its coastal scenery and offers routes for hiking, jogging, and road cycling. The terrain includes relatively flat coastal paths with ocean views, as well as forested trails with some moderate inclines. The park has over 100 aggregated routes, making it suitable for various fitness levels.
Are there family-friendly trails in Queensland's national parks?
Many national parks in Queensland offer trails suitable for families and beginners. These are often shorter, well-marked paths with gentle gradients. Parks in the Wet Tropics, such as Daintree, feature accessible boardwalks through the rainforest, providing safe and engaging walks for all ages.
What is the best time to visit national parks in Queensland?
The cooler, drier months from April to October are generally considered the most comfortable for undertaking strenuous activities like hiking. The summer months (December to February) can be hot and humid, especially in the tropical north, with a higher chance of heavy rainfall.
Are dogs allowed in Queensland's national parks?
No, domestic animals, including dogs, are not permitted in Queensland's national parks. This rule is in place to protect native wildlife and preserve the natural habitat. Assistance animals are an exception but may require a permit.
Do I need a permit to visit national parks in Queensland?
A permit is not required for general day visits to most national parks. However, permits are necessary for specific activities such as camping, certain commercial activities, or some specialised recreational events. It is always advisable to check the specific requirements for the park you plan to visit.
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
