The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Leslie Harrison Dam Nature Refuge
4.3
(23)
483
hikers
31
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Leslie Harrison Dam Nature Refuge traverse a diverse landscape featuring eucalypt forests, lush rainforest pockets, and natural bushland. The area is characterized by varied terrain, from relatively flat sections to areas with moderate elevation changes, providing a range of hiking experiences. The refuge is dedicated to protecting koala habitat, offering opportunities for wildlife observation. While the Leslie Harrison Dam forms the Tingalpa Reservoir, direct recreation on the reservoir is not permitted.
Best family friendly hiking…
Last updated: July 8, 2026
3.0
(1)
16
hikers
12.4km
03:20
160m
160m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
7
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
5.0
(1)
30
hikers
3.60km
00:55
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
hikers
3.42km
00:52
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
16
hikers
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
The Minnippi Wetlands Circuit loops around a series of lagoons and restored wetland habitat, with wide sealed paths that make for an easy walk or ride. The route stays mostly level and passes reed-lined water edges, open grassland, and scattered shaded sections where you’ll often spot ducks, ibis, egrets, and other waterbirds feeding around the shallows. There are benches, picnic areas, toilets, and parking nearby, making it an easy one for a relaxed lap without needing to venture far from the city.
0
0
The Minnippi Wetlands add a quieter, more natural side to the parklands, with shallow lagoons, reed-lined edges, and pockets of restored habitat attracting plenty of birdlife. The wetlands were designed as part of a broader environmental rehabilitation project linked to Bulimba Creek, helping improve stormwater quality while creating habitat for aquatic species and migratory birds. Early mornings are especially good here, when the water is still and you’ll often spot ducks, ibis, egrets, and other waterbirds moving through the lagoons.
0
0
Bulimba Creek forms one of Brisbane’s major urban wildlife corridors, flowing through wetlands, bushland remnants, and freshwater swamplands before eventually reaching the Brisbane River. Around Minnippi Parklands, the creek helps support a surprisingly diverse ecosystem within the suburbs, with waterbirds, wetland vegetation, microbats, and even squirrel gliders recorded in the area. Restoration work along the creek corridor has helped improve habitat around the lagoons and riparian zones, giving this stretch a much more natural feel than you’d expect so close to the city.
0
0
This waterfront park sits along the edge of Moreton Bay with open grassed areas, mangroves, and direct access to the foreshore path. The shoreline here is relatively calm, with wide views across the bay and tidal flats exposed at lower tide. The park includes shaded sections beneath trees and connects into the surrounding walking and cycling network along the waterfront.
0
0
This section of the Moreton Bay Cycleway follows the foreshore along Queens Esplanade, running close to the edge of the bay. The path is flat and sealed, with open views across Moreton Bay, mangroves along the shoreline, and sections of tree shade. It’s a shared path used by walkers, runners, and cyclists, with a straightforward layout and continuous waterfront access along this stretch.
0
0
Daisy Hill Conservation Park is a beautiful eucalypt forest reserve dedicated to both conservation efforts and recreational activities. It includes a well-established network of trails that are perfect for shared use and is home to koalas and a variety of native wildlife. While you're here, you can also explore the Daisy Hill Koala Centre within the park. The terrain is mostly gentle, with wide pathways and areas of denser bushland scattered throughout, making it an inviting destination for nature lovers.
0
0
Very worth seeing, you have to see it
0
1
Very worth seeing, you have to see it
0
1
Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Leslie Harrison Dam Nature Refuge?
Leslie Harrison Dam Nature Refuge offers a great selection of family-friendly hiking opportunities. There are over 30 routes suitable for families, with 21 of these being rated as easy, perfect for all ages and skill levels.
What makes Leslie Harrison Dam Nature Refuge a good destination for family hikes?
The refuge is ideal for families due to its diverse and accessible trails. You'll find a mix of open eucalypt forests, lush rainforest pockets, and natural bushland, providing varied scenery. Many trails are relatively flat, making them suitable for younger children or those new to hiking. It's also a dedicated koala habitat, offering exciting wildlife spotting opportunities.
Are there easy walks suitable for young children or beginners?
Absolutely! Many trails are designed for easy enjoyment. For a pleasant and relatively flat experience, consider the Koala Bushland Trail – Bees Knees Mountain Bike Trail loop from Rochedale South, which is just over 5 km. Another great option is the Apiary Break – Kimberley Link loop from Priestdale, offering a gentle 6.3 km walk.
Can we take our dog on the trails in Leslie Harrison Dam Nature Refuge?
While the region is known for its natural beauty, specific regulations regarding dogs on trails can vary within nature refuges and protected areas. It's always best to check local signage or the official park website before bringing your dog to ensure compliance and protect the native wildlife, especially in koala habitats.
Are there any circular routes that are good for families?
Yes, many of the family-friendly trails are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point without retracing your steps. The Koala Bushland Trail – Bees Knees Mountain Bike Trail loop and the Apiary Break – Kimberley Link loop are both excellent circular options for families.
What kind of wildlife might we see while hiking with our family?
The Leslie Harrison Dam Nature Refuge is dedicated to protecting koala habitat, so you have a good chance of spotting these iconic marsupials. Beyond koalas, the diverse ecosystems, including eucalypt forests and wetlands, support a variety of birdlife and other native animals, making for an engaging experience for children.
Are there any viewpoints or interesting sights along the family trails?
While direct recreation on the dam is not permitted, some trails may offer glimpses of the surrounding natural landscape. The region's varied terrain, from open forests to rainforest pockets, provides continuous scenic interest. For panoramic views, the Quarry Lookout, accessible via various paths, is a notable feature in the broader area.
Where can we park when visiting Leslie Harrison Dam Nature Refuge for a hike?
Access points to the trails often have designated parking areas. For routes like the Koala Bushland Trail loops, you'll typically find parking available near the trailheads in areas like Rochedale South. For the Apiary Break loop, parking is usually available near Priestdale. Always look for official parking signs.
What is the best time of year to hike with family in this region?
The region generally offers pleasant hiking conditions for much of the year. Spring and autumn often provide milder temperatures, which are ideal for family outings. During summer, it's best to start early in the morning to avoid the midday heat, and always ensure you carry plenty of water.
How long do the family-friendly hikes typically take?
The duration of family-friendly hikes varies depending on the route and your pace. Easy trails like the Koala Bushland Trail – Bees Knees Mountain Bike Trail loop (5.3 km) can take around 1.5 to 2 hours. Longer moderate loops, such as the Koala Bushland Trail – Youles Break loop (13.8 km), might take closer to 3.5 to 4 hours, making them suitable for families seeking a longer adventure.
What do other hikers enjoy most about family hikes in Leslie Harrison Dam Nature Refuge?
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experience in Leslie Harrison Dam Nature Refuge, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained trails, the peaceful natural environment, and the opportunity to immerse themselves in koala habitat, making it a rewarding experience for families.
Most popular routes in Leslie Harrison Dam Nature Refuge
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
