The best city hikes and walks in Toohey Forest
4.7
(70)
3,198
hikers
68
hikes
Urban hiking trails in Toohey Forest are characterized by remnant dry eucalypt bushland, offering a significant green space near Brisbane's city center. The area features diverse landscapes, including sandstone and quartzite outcrops, alongside various eucalypt species and ancient grass trees. Small pockets of vine forest are also present, often associated with ephemeral creeks. This natural setting provides a varied terrain for urban exploration.
Best urban hiking trails in Toohey Forest
- The most popular urban hiking route is View of Brisbane…
Last updated: June 25, 2026
11
hikers
17.1km
04:28
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
3
hikers
7.76km
02:00
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
116
hikers
6.55km
01:42
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
59
hikers
11.1km
02:50
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
42
hikers
5.89km
01:30
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Eleanor Schonell Bridge, also known as the Green Bridge, spans the Brisbane River between Dutton Park and the University of Queensland’s St Lucia campus. Opened in 2006, it was the first in Australia designed exclusively for buses, cyclists and pedestrians, creating an important connection across the river without private vehicles.
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South Bank Parklands combines riverfront paths, landscaped gardens, and public spaces across a large stretch of the city’s foreshore. The area includes the Streets Beach lagoon, shaded walkways like the Arbour, and open lawns with views across to the CBD. It connects directly into the riverside path network and forms one of the main public spaces along the river.
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Queen Street Mall is Brisbane’s main pedestrian shopping strip, running through the heart of the city centre. The wide, traffic-free walkway is lined with retail arcades, cafés and heritage façades alongside modern towers, giving you a clear sense of the city’s energy and scale. Street performers and public art often add to the atmosphere as you move between the river and the CBD.
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Goodwill Bridge is a pedestrian and cycle bridge spanning the Brisbane River between South Bank and Gardens Point. From the centre of the bridge, you get open views along the river toward the city skyline, with high-rise towers reflecting off the water below. The bridge sits slightly elevated above river level, giving you a clear view of boats passing beneath and the CBD rising beyond. It’s a popular crossing, so keep left and stay aware of cyclists as you pause to take in the view.
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Brisbane City Botanic Gardens is a heritage riverside park established in 1855 at the edge of the CBD, known for its mature trees, ornamental plantings, and mangrove boardwalks. Meandering paths connect lawns, ponds, and historic features, creating a shaded, peaceful stretch along the Riverwalk loop. Its location by the river serves as an important floodplain, emphasising the city's historical ties to the Brisbane River.
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Opened in 2001, the Goodwill Bridge is a pedestrian and cycle crossing over the Brisbane River linking South Bank with the city near the Botanic Gardens. Its sleek, cable-stayed design and gentle curves make it a popular, traffic-free route with expansive river and skyline views. The bridge also hosts small lookout bays and often features public art and lighting displays during city events.
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Go Between Bridge is a modern road, pedestrian, and cycle bridge spanning the Brisbane River, opened in 2010 to improve inner-city connectivity and relieve traffic pressure on nearby crossings. Its contemporary cable-stayed form makes it a distinctive feature of Brisbane’s river skyline.
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Regatta ferry terminal is a CityCat stop on the Brisbane River, serving the Toowong area and nearby riverside precincts. The terminal provides easy river access to central Brisbane and other suburbs, linking commuters, visitors, and recreational users to the ferry network. Its position beside riverfront paths and parklands makes it a convenient connection point for walking and cycling along the river corridor.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many urban hiking trails are available in Toohey Forest?
Toohey Forest offers a wide variety of urban hiking experiences. On komoot, you'll find over 80 routes, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging paths, perfect for exploring this natural oasis within Brisbane.
What are the best times to visit Toohey Forest for hiking?
Toohey Forest is enjoyable year-round, but late winter and spring are particularly beautiful. During these months, the forest comes alive with colorful wildflowers, making for a vibrant hiking experience. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal to avoid the midday heat, especially in summer.
Are there any family-friendly hiking trails in Toohey Forest?
Yes, Toohey Forest has several tracks suitable for families. The Toohey Ridge Track is a 5km return walk that is suitable for prams and children on wheels. Some sections of the forest are even accessible for wheelchairs and prams, ensuring everyone can enjoy the natural surroundings.
Can I bring my dog on the trails in Toohey Forest?
Toohey Forest is a popular spot for dog walkers. Many trails are dog-friendly, but it's important to keep your dog on a leash and be mindful of wildlife. Always check local signage for specific regulations on individual tracks.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in Toohey Forest?
Toohey Forest is a biodiversity hotspot, home to over 400 species of native wildlife. Hikers often spot koalas, echidnas, possums, gliders, and a wide array of birds like owls and cockatoos. Keep an eye out for lizards and frogs, especially near the ephemeral creeks.
Are there any viewpoints or scenic lookouts in Toohey Forest?
Absolutely! The Mount Gravatt Lookout is a significant draw, offering panoramic city views that extend to the Moreton Bay islands, D'Aguilar Ranges, and Glasshouse Mountains on clear days. The Sandstone Circuit also provides viewpoints like the Sandstone and Western Lookouts.
What is the terrain like on Toohey Forest trails?
The terrain in Toohey Forest is diverse, ranging from wide, often paved surfaces on tracks like the Nathan Ridge Track, to winding paths through dry eucalypt bushland. You'll encounter striking sandstone and quartzite outcrops, and some trails feature small pockets of vine forest. Difficulty levels vary from easy to more challenging.
Are there circular hiking routes available in Toohey Forest?
Yes, Toohey Forest offers several circular routes, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. The Sandstone Circuit is an easy, half-hour 1km loop that immerses you in ancient sandstone boulders and offers viewpoints. Many trails can also be combined to create longer circular walks.
Where can I park when visiting Toohey Forest?
Toohey Forest has designated parking areas at various access points. Popular spots include the Mount Gravatt Lookout summit, which also has a café and toilet block, and picnic areas like Mayne Estate and Toohey picnic areas. Always check local maps for the most convenient parking for your chosen trailhead.
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. Reviewers often praise the convenience of its location so close to the city, the diverse trails suitable for all abilities, and the opportunity to experience rich biodiversity and scenic lookouts within an urban setting.
Are there any facilities like cafes or picnic areas in Toohey Forest?
Yes, at the Mount Gravatt Lookout summit, you'll find a café, playground, and toilet block. Additionally, the forest offers sheltered picnic and BBQ facilities at areas like Mayne Estate and Toohey picnic areas, providing ideal spots for relaxation after a hike.
How can I access Toohey Forest using public transport?
Toohey Forest is well-connected to Brisbane's public transport network. Various bus routes service the areas surrounding the forest, with stops near key access points and Griffith University. Planning your route with a public transport app is recommended to find the most direct connection to your desired trailhead.
Most popular routes in Toohey Forest
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