Mountains to Visit on the Sunshine Coast

By admin
Date: January 21, 2022

The Sunshine Coast is home to some of the most beautiful natural attractions in Australia. With both the mountains and the coast within easy driving distance, tourists and locals alike are spoilt for choice in planning day trips and adventures. Where sprawling coastlines, unique small towns and mountainous terrains abound, the Sunshine Coast is one of the East Coast’s top destinations to discover.

One of the best ways to get the most from what the gorgeous nature of this region has to offer is to put on your hiking boots and climb a mountain! With a range of choices from easy walking trails to rocky terrain, there is something for everyone among the mountains on the Sunshine Coast. Some of our favourites include:

The Glasshouse Mountains

Named for their resemblance to shattered glass, The Glasshouse Mountains surround the Southern end of the Sunshine Coast. Situated an hour north of Brisbane and an hour south of Noosa, you can spot the Glasshouse peeking through on the way to Brisbane, or from multiple vantage points around Caloundra. The Glasshouse Mountains incorporate Mount Tibrogargan & Mount Ngungun and have eleven towering peaks, some with walking tracks, lookouts and hikes for all levels of fitness.

Once at the top of these glorious mountains, you will have a panoramic view of the Sunshine Coast, from the hinterland to the ocean, and all the mountains in between. The Glasshouse Mountains have something for everyone in your group, with Mount Ngungun and its 2.8km flat track in open forest, or the Mount Tibrogargan Summit Route for confident and experienced climbers.

Mount Ninderry

Mount Ninderry is one of the most underrated climbs on the coast. Taking only 40 minutes to complete, this mountain is perfect for those wanting to dip their toes into hiking. Mount Ninderry isn’t as stair heavy as Mount Coolum and is dog friendly for your four-legged hiking buddy. From the peak, at either of the two viewing platforms, you will experience views of the Sunshine Coast coastline, Mount Coolum, Yandina and Blackall Range. On a clear day, you will be treated to views of Mooloolaba peeking through in the distance as well as the pineapple and sugar cane fields.

Mount Coolum

Mount Coolum is a must for avid hikers and beginners alike. Suited for both, the 1.5-hour track starts easy and moves to a steeper incline towards the end. Reaching the peak is well worth the effort, with views of Caloundra’s coastline all the way to Double Island Point, a bird’s eye view of the hinterlands, and a glimpse at the surrounding mountains. Just 90 minutes from Brisbane, this 208-metre-tall summit is a must-do to experience fresh air, panoramic views and a fun workout (some locals even conquer it daily!).

Mount Cooroora

Pack a protein bar, plenty of water and your best walking shoes for this challenging climb. With an elevation of 439 metres, Mount Cooroora is not for the faint-hearted. Chain stair climbing and rock scrambling is required to get to the top, and steady footing is needed to get back down. The view from the summit is well worth the effort, with 360-degree views over coastal lakes, the hinterland and the dunes of the Cooloola Recreation Area. This hike takes around three hours and is loved by active local climbers and adventure-seeking tourists alike for its challenging terrain, stunning views and natural surrounds.

Mount Tinbeerwah

Holidays should be for relaxation, and that’s exactly what you’ll get with this easy and comfortable hike. 15 minutes from Noosa, Tinbeerwah is a short 1km climb to an epic lookout. With views over Noosa, the hinterland and the ocean, this climb is perfect for watching the sunset or to get a quick workout in before you spend your day laying about on Noosa’s gorgeous beaches. The walk is child friendly, and there is even a lookout that is wheelchair accessible, making this a track that the whole family can enjoy.

The Sunshine Coast is packed full of natural and man-made attractions and the mountains are a perfect blend of both. With cleverly placed lookouts, climbing aids and picnic tables, climbing a mountain on the Sunshine Coast is one of the best ways to take in the views and experience the glory of our sunny skies and untouched natural surrounds.

For more information on adventure packages, tours, hotel deals and locations, contact us on 1300 186 004, and we can find the perfect home base for your adventuring.

Mountains to Visit on the Sunshine Coast