Easy hikes and walks in Toohey Forest
4.7
(70)
3,198
hikers
99
hikes
Hiking in Toohey Forest offers a diverse natural experience within a significant eucalypt forest remnant. The terrain features open eucalypt forests with various species, striking sandstone and quartzite outcrops, and ancient sandstone boulders. Hikers will also encounter distinctive grass trees and Scribbly Gums. The area includes the Mount Gravatt Outlook Reserve, providing panoramic views from Mount Gravatt, a prominent local hill.
Best easy hiking trails in Toohey Forest
- The most popular easy hiking route is Federation Track loop from Mount…
Last updated: June 25, 2026
5.0
(1)
40
hikers
4.56km
01:14
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
5.61km
01:33
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
2
hikers
6.39km
01:48
130m
130m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
48
hikers
3.08km
00:57
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
13
hikers
2.20km
00:42
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
You can find a few sheltered picnic areas and built-in barbecues near the car park. There are also restrooms, and trailhead access to many different local bushwalks.
0
0
This little pond along Mimosa Creek is filled with swamp paperbark trees and water lilies in the warmer months.
0
0
This shared-use path is one of the main tracks through the Toohey Forest. It's only 1.4 kilometres end-to-end, but it connects with many other tracks in the forest, so your options are nearly endless. Paved and relatively flat, it's a great option for anyone looking to get out and explore.
0
0
Located in Brisbane’s southern suburbs, Toohey Forest is a large bushland reserve with an extensive network of walking and cycling tracks. The landscape is defined by sandstone outcrops and eucalypt forest, with grass trees and banksias spread throughout the understorey, especially noticeable during wildflower season in late winter and spring. The area supports a wide range of wildlife, including koalas, echidnas, gliders, and over seventy-five bird species. Multiple picnic areas with barbecue facilities are located across the reserve, with links connecting through to Griffith University’s campuses.
0
0
Running along the ridgeline in Toohey Forest, this shared-use track extends from Toohey Picnic Area toward the South East Freeway. The route moves through open eucalypt forest, including Planchon’s stringybark and Bailey’s stringybark, both uncommon in Brisbane. The track is generally well-defined, with a connecting side track leading to the main bikeway. Conditions can vary, with sections impacted by rainfall, expect washouts, ruts, and uneven surfaces in places, requiring extra care underfoot.
0
0
This lookout sits on one of the highest points on Brisbane’s south side, with wide views across the city and surrounding suburbs. On clear days, the view extends beyond the urban area toward Moreton Bay and distant ranges. The summit is easily accessible by road or walking tracks, with open viewing areas, picnic spaces, and a café nearby. It’s a popular spot, especially around sunset, when visibility and lighting shift across the skyline.
0
0
Federation Track winds through open eucalypt forest in Mount Gravatt Outlook Reserve, linking lower sections of the reserve with the summit area. The path includes compacted dirt, timber steps and short boardwalk sections over drainage lines. Shaded sections offer relief on warmer days, though leaf litter and loose gravel can make footing uneven in places.
0
0
Mount Gravatt Outlook Reserve protects one of Brisbane’s closest bushland lookouts, combining open eucalypt forest with city-facing viewpoints. The reserve sits on a prominent hill south of the CBD and offers a quick escape into native bush without leaving suburbia. The walk climbs through dry sclerophyll forest to reach elevated platforms with wide views over Brisbane. There is no entry fee.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available in Toohey Forest?
Toohey Forest offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 80 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, the area features more than 100 hiking routes suitable for various skill levels.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see on easy hikes in Toohey Forest?
Easy hikes in Toohey Forest will lead you through diverse landscapes, including open eucalypt forests with bloodwoods, ironbarks, and grey gums. You'll also encounter striking sandstone and quartzite outcrops, ancient sandstone boulders, and distinctive grass trees. Keep an eye out for Scribbly Gums, identifiable by the unique 'scribbles' on their trunks.
Are there any viewpoints or lookouts accessible on easy trails?
Yes, the Mount Gravatt Outlook Reserve loop is an easy 3.1 km trail that takes you through the Mount Gravatt Outlook Reserve. The summit of Mount Gravatt offers panoramic city views of Brisbane, Moreton Bay islands, D'Aguilar Ranges, and the Glasshouse Mountains on clear days.
Are the easy hiking trails in Toohey Forest suitable for families with children?
Absolutely. Toohey Forest is an excellent destination for families. Many tracks are well-maintained and suitable for all ages. The Mount Gravatt Lookout area also features a playground, making it a great spot for a family outing. Some sections of the trails are even pram-friendly.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails in Toohey Forest?
Toohey Forest has specific regulations regarding dogs. While some areas may permit dogs on leash, it's always best to check the official Brisbane City Council website for the most current information on dog-friendly areas and restrictions within the reserve to ensure a pleasant and compliant visit. You can find more details on the Brisbane City Council website.
Are there any circular easy hiking routes in Toohey Forest?
Yes, many of the easy trails in Toohey Forest are designed as loops. For example, the Federation Track loop from Mount Gravatt Outlook Reserve is a popular 5.2 km circular route, and the Nathan Campus Pond – Toohey Forest loop offers another easy 5.6 km circular path.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Toohey Forest?
Late winter and spring are particularly beautiful times to visit Toohey Forest, as this is when the wildflowers bloom, adding vibrant colors to the landscape, especially around the grass trees. However, the forest is enjoyable year-round, with cooler mornings being ideal during the warmer months.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter on an easy hike?
Toohey Forest is rich in biodiversity. On your easy hike, you might spot koalas, echidnas, possums, gliders, and various bird species like owls, tawny frogmouths, cockatoos, and parrots. Recent sightings also indicate a growing koala population and the return of wallabies.
Where can I park when visiting Toohey Forest for an easy hike?
Parking is available at various access points around Toohey Forest and Mount Gravatt Outlook Reserve. For routes starting near the lookout, there is parking available at the Mount Gravatt Lookout itself. Other trailheads, such as those near Toohey Forest Conservation Park, also offer parking facilities.
Are there any cafes or facilities near the easy hiking trails?
Yes, at the summit of Mount Gravatt Lookout, you'll find a café where you can grab refreshments. The lookout area also provides toilet facilities and a playground, making it a convenient stop before or after your easy hike.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Toohey Forest?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 100 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse eucalypt forest, the well-maintained paths, and the rewarding panoramic views from Mount Gravatt Lookout, even on easy trails.
Are any of the easy trails in Toohey Forest wheelchair accessible?
While not all trails are fully accessible, some sections of the tracks in Toohey Forest are pram and wheelchair-friendly. It's advisable to consult the official park maps or local information for specific accessible routes to ensure suitability for your needs.
Most popular routes in Toohey Forest
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
