Glasshouse Mountains
Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia
The Glass House Mountains, nestled within the stunning Sunshine Coast of Queensland, beckon all who see them. Prepare to embark on a journey through this time-honored and awe-inspiring terrain – just lace up those hiking boots and you're all set.
The Glasshouse Mountains are a group of 11 volcanic
peaks more than 25 million years old. Covered in a thick layer of
vegetation, they are an incredible blend of volcano and
rainforest. The valleys between them are home to a number of animals
that are unique to Australia. Keep watch for any movement, the animals have great camouflage! You might just see a kangaroo, wallabie, or any number of birds that call this region home.
The Glasshouse Mountains are a popular destination for hiking, camping, and rock climbing. There are a number of trails that lead to the summits of the mountains, with fantastic views of the beautiful countryside all around. The mountains are also home to a number of waterfalls, including Buderim Falls (also known as Serenity Falls) and Booloumba Falls- but you'll likely need a 4WD to access that one.
Hit the Trails: Your Guide to Beginner Hikes:
There are a number of trails that lead to the summits
of the mountains, with fantastic views of the beautiful countryside all
around. Here are 4 of my favourites, suitable for beginners- but that doesn't mean you don't have to be in shape for most of them!
Mount Ngungun: A great starter hike:
If you're new to the hiking scene, no worries – Mount Ngungun is your ultimate starting point! No gear required. Just good shoes, water and some snacks. A clear path takes you to the top, (no need for a machete!) where breathtaking panoramic views await.
Mount Coolum: Probably the most popular hike on the Sunshine Coast. This iconic peak is nature's own stair-climber workout, offering a mix of challenge and excitement. As you ascend, the views just keep getting better, revealing the stunning coastline and lush landscapes. It starts off easy enough, but don't be fooled as we were! This hike is steep. Standing at the top feels like a well-earned victory. Not recommend for anyone afraid of heights. You need to be in decent shape to tackle this one.
Tibrogargan Circuit: Set out on a fulfilling loop around the majestic Mount Tibrogargan. Stretching just over 4 km, the hike takes around an hour to an hour and a half to complete. While slightly more demanding than a neighborhood stroll, it's absolutely beginner-friendly. You'll be treated to fantastic views of Mount Tibrogargan and remember to keep an eye out for the graceful Peregrine falcons often soaring above the area. Get ready to conquer this trail with a touch of challenge and a lot of natural beauty!
Wild Horse Walking Trail: This trail covers around 0.9 kilometers – a manageable journey that promises some delightful surprises and a moderate challenge level. Ascend the steep incline and find yourself atop Wild Horse Mountain,
where you'll be treated to near 360 degree views of the Glass House Mountains and the sprawling countryside. This one does get steeper the higher you climb, so pace yourself. It's not as quite as easy as it seems when you leave the carpark.
Must-Visit Towns Along the Way
The Glass House Mountains aren't just about the hikes. Along your journey, you'll stumble upon some charming towns that are all worth a visit if you have the time.
Beerwah:
Beerwah is located just an hour's drive from Brisbane and is the perfect
choice for an amazing day trip. As the proud home of the Australia Zoo
and boasting several fantastic walking tracks, this charming small town
has plenty to offer to keep you entertained. From fueling up with a
hearty brekkie to zipping around the raceway at Big Kart Track, Beerwah will provide you with everything you need for an
unforgettable adventure!
Montville:
Home of some of the hinterlands most creative people. This super-cute country town is one of the best stops for shopping and supporting local artisans. Pottery studios, art galleries and craft cottages abound. You will find gifts to take home, or something for your own house here.
Find out more over on the Top 10 Montville page.
Buderim:
Nestled just 15 kilometers away from the coast, Buderim is a charming town surrounded by mountains, rainforests, and a whole lot of beauty. Buderim is a must-visit spot on many tourists lists.
Buderim exists today thanks to sugar cane farmers in the 1860's. By the 20th century it was all about ginger. This is an ideal location to grow it, and you will see fields and fields of it in the area.
Ginger Factory: Ever wondered about the story behind ginger? The Ginger Factory is the place to be, and you can even snag some ginger-infused goodies from their shop.
Buderim Falls: Hiking to Buderim Falls (also known as Serenity Falls) is like a nature lover's dream. It's a quick and breezy jaunt, and trust me, the view from the top is pure eye candy.
Safety Tips to Keep in Mind:
Before you head off on your mountain adventure, here are some handy safety tips to remember:
Plan Ahead:
Check
the weather forecast, pack plenty of water, and bring some snacks to
keep energy levels up during your hike. The mountains can get very, very hot during summer, so plan accordingly. We tend to save our hikes for mornings and later in the day. Noon is not a good time.
Stay on the Marked Trails:
The urge to explore off the beaten path is strong! But, it's
smarter to stick to the marked trails. Think of the mountains as a giant
puzzle - going off-track could lead to a real-life version of being
lost in the bush. Our native bush, flowers and animals will thank you for it too!
Inform Someone of Your Plans:
Let a friend or family member know about your hiking plans and when you plan to be back. Mobile service is sketchy at best out there- usually non-existent. So, don't count on being able to call for help if you get lost or injured.
Wildlife Vibes: Aussie Style
The Glass House Mountains are like a wild kingdom. Stay alert and you might spot some true-blue Aussie critters!
1. Wallabies and Kangaroos:
You'll see these lively critters hopping around like they're on a
mission. But please remember to respect their
space and enjoy watching them in their natural habitat. Don't get too close. They can hurt you.
2. Bird Party: A Riot of Colours
The mountains host a lively crew of birds. Listen up for their cheerful tunes – it's the playlist for your next adventure!
3. Watch Out for Snakes and Spiders:
Keep an eye out for our eight-legged and slithery pals. Snakes and spiders are members of the local crew in the Glass House Mountains. But don't stress – simply stay alert while on the trail. Remember, they're not out to give you a scare. Sure, they might catch you off guard – they're pros at sneaking around quietly – but typically, they're not interested in mingling with us humans. We're a bit too large for their taste, and they'd rather conserve their energy for more suitable prey.
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