Waterfalls, lookouts and national parks in Brisbane

Brisbane's wild side begins at the edge of the suburbs. A short drive from the centre, Mt Coot-tha rises over the city with a lookout that gives a wide view of the river and the skyline. Below it, J.C. Slaughter Falls and Gap Creek Reserve offer shady bush walks, and the falls themselves flow best after rain, so treat them as a bonus rather than a promise. There is plenty else close by. Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park gives city views and a place to watch rock climbers. The South Bank Rainforest Walk is a gentle introduction to subtropical green in the middle of the city. Karawatha Forest, Daisy Hill Conservation Park, Bunyaville Conservation Park and Toohey Forest Park are bushland reserves with tracks of different lengths, and some have discovery or visitor centres. Further out, Minjerribah's Point Lookout Gorge Walk follows a headland where dolphins, turtles and, in the cooler months, migrating whales may be seen. It is a drive, a ferry and a walk, so it suits a whole day. Be realistic with children. A short walk to a lookout or creek often delights a four-year-old more than a long track. Take water, because the humidity is hard on small bodies, and watch for snakes and spiders by keeping to the track. Summer storms can make tracks slippery and lightning dangerous, so keep to the cooler months for longer walks.

Our picks

Before you go

Best for which ages

Short walks and lookouts, such as Mt Coot-tha and the South Bank walk, suit toddlers and preschoolers. Primary children enjoy tracks with a creek or falls. Teenagers might prefer longer bush tracks in the forest reserves, where they can walk ahead and explore.

What to bring

Carry more water than seems sensible in the humidity, plus a hat, sunscreen and sturdy closed shoes for the roots and rocks. Pack insect repellent, since mosquitoes and ticks can be a nuisance in bush reserves. A light rain jacket helps with sudden showers, and a first-aid kit and charged phone are sensible.

Parking and facilities

Mt Coot-tha lookout gets busy at sunset and on weekends. Smaller reserves usually have basic parking and few facilities. The listing says what is on site, including toilets, and it helps to use them before setting out. Arrive before the sun-seekers do and you will find a space and a quiet track.

Best time of year

Winter and early spring are the most comfortable for longer walks, with dry air and clear views. Summer is hot, humid and stormy, so go early and finish before the afternoon. Falls and creeks are best after good rain. Bush reserves are at their greenest after the summer rain, though the tracks can be muddy and the mozzies out.

Prams and accessibility

Some lookouts and the South Bank walk are paved and suit prams. Many bush tracks have steps, roots and gravel and are not suitable for wheelchairs. Check the listing for surface details, and use a baby carrier on rougher ground.

Waterfalls, lookouts and forest walks

Walks the park service or council describes with a length and grade. Each listing says how far, how hard, and what is at the start.

All walks, waterfalls and lookouts in Brisbane, free and paid

Questions parents ask

Are there waterfalls near Brisbane for kids?
J.C. Slaughter Falls at Mt Coot-tha is a short bush walk away from the city. The flow depends on recent rain, so expect a trickle after a dry spell. The listing describes the walk.
What is the best lookout for kids in Brisbane?
Mt Coot-tha Lookout and Kangaroo Point Cliffs both give city views without a long walk. Keep children back from edges, and visit early or late to avoid the heat and the crowds.
Is the Point Lookout Gorge Walk suitable for children?
It suits school-age children who enjoy walking, with views and sometimes marine life. It involves a ferry trip, so plan the day around times, and check the listing for track conditions.
How do we stay safe on bush walks in Brisbane?
Wear closed shoes, carry plenty of water and keep to the track. Check the weather, leave early in summer, and take shelter from lightning. Teach children not to poke at logs and rocks.

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