From nearby coastal tracks with gorgeous bay views to mountain bike trails, mountain-top lookouts, wilderness hikes and paddling, spring wildflowers and wildlife-spotting, the National Parks within and surrounding Noosa are a kaleidoscope of amazing colours and activity for everyone.
You never know where a walk in Noosa will take you – from sunrise on a mountain top to sunset over Noosa National Park’s secluded bays; from wilderness hikes to pristine lakes; from the Noosa Biosphere Trails Network hinterland scenery to the ancient rainforests and sandblows of World Heritage-listed K'gari (Fraser Island).
The headland standing guard over Laguna Bay that gives Noosa Heads its name, is part of the Noosa National Park – protected from development, a sanctuary for native animals including koalas and wallabies, and one of the most beautiful and accessible walks you can do anywhere … big call, but take a look ….
The Noosa National Park headland is one of Australia’s most popular parks, with a vast network of tracks ready to be explored. Accessible and beautiful, its coastal and rainforest paths are well-worn by hikers, runners, surfers and nature enthusiasts.
This walking wonderland offers 5 epic tracks to explore! So grab your running shoes and choose your tracks to discover this gorgeous landscape of coastal outlooks and Aussie bush.
The walk starts only a few minutes from the end of Hastings Street, with coastal and inland tracks – as short as you like or take a few hours. The spectacular coastal track overlooks Laguna Bay, across to Noosa North Shore and the Cooloola Sandpatch, with side tracks to secluded bays such as Tea Tree and Granite. Watch the surfing action on the points, and spot turtles, dolphins and even humpback whales (June to October).
The quieter, easy to moderate inland tracks pass through rainforest, open woodlands, heathlands and stands of hoop and kauri pine, and are home to a beautiful array of bird life.
Look up when exploring #NoosaNationalPark to spot resident koalas high up in the eucalyptus trees. Australia’s favourite sleepy bear will be snoozing, eating and relaxing in nature, oblivious to the activity below. The National Park is one of Noosa’s most relaxing spaces, whether you're chilling in the shade, jogging along the coastline or taking a dip in the sea.
If short-lived walks and spectacular views are your thing, this one is for you! Welcome to Emu Mountain, found in Peregian Beach and a part of the southern section of Noosa National Park. This spot boasts 3 short walking tracks and coastal outlooks.
The Tewantin National Park encompasses Mt Tinbeerwah and the Wooroi Trails, only about 15 minutes from Noosa Heads. The park is home to protected areas of rainforest, open eucalypt forest and remnants of wallum heath that provide refuge for native wildlife including echidnas and koalas. Birdwatchers will hear the calls of countless species including the characteristic eastern whip bird and vulnerable glossy black cockatoo.
Adventure Tribe are a lead provider of outdoor adventure in Noosa, offering walking, hiking, abseiling, rock climbing and kayaking adventures around Mt Tinbeerwah and beyond.
The Wooroi Trails just 10km west of Noosa Heads has two walking tracks and ten mountain bike tracks – something for everyone. There are over 25km of fast-flowing, single-track mountain bike trails through a stunning bush and rainforest canopy.
This is the perfect outdoor gym and so close to Noosa!
Hire a bike or join a guided tour with Bike On and explore the trails for yourself.
Follow Cooroy-Noosa Road to Tewantin to the base of the Tewantin National Park.
Although it's not a national park, the Noosa Biosphere Trails offer a unique way to explore Noosa’s UNESCO-recognised Biosphere Reserve, weaving through lush rainforests, open woodlands, and scenic hinterland. Whether you're exploring on foot, by bike, or even on horseback, these trails provide an incredible opportunity to connect with nature and experience the region’s diverse landscapes.
Highlights include:
Whether you're an avid hiker, a mountain biking enthusiast, or simply seeking a scenic escape, the Noosa Biosphere Trails offer something for everyone. Discover the best ways to tackle these trails here - or book a tour with By Earth and Ocean.
If you're keen to venture beyond Noosa, there are several stunning national parks nearby that offer unforgettable outdoor adventures, from breathtaking coastal landscapes to serene hinterland escapes.
Whether you're after secluded swimming holes, dramatic coastal scenery, or mountain lookouts, these national parks provide plenty of reasons to extend your adventure beyond Noosa!
