The best family-friendly hikes and walks in North Shore Environmental Reserve
4.6
(178)
3,055
hikers
25
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in North Shore Environmental Reserve offer diverse landscapes, from coastal paths to varied forest ecosystems. The region is characterized by its stunning coastlines, often featuring natural shorelines and tidelands, alongside diverse forests including hardwood and pine. Hikers can also explore unique geological formations and vital wetlands, which contribute to the area's rich biodiversity. These features provide a range of accessible outdoor experiences for families.
Best family friendly hiking trails in North Shore Environmental Reserve
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Hell's Gates Walk, a 3.5 miles (5.6 km) trail that takes 1 hour 30 minutes to complete. This easy path offers coastal views and access to unique geological features.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Noosa National Park circuit, an easy 4.5 miles (7.3 km) path. This route winds through diverse forest habitats and provides scenic coastal vistas.
- Local hikers also love the Granite Bay – Hell's Gates loop from Noosa Heads, a 4.4 miles (7.1 km) trail leading through coastal scenery and forested sections, often completed in about 2 hours.
- Hiking in North Shore Environmental Reserve is defined by scenic coastal views, diverse forest ecosystems, and vital wetlands. The network offers options for different ability levels, making it suitable for families.
- The routes in North Shore Environmental Reserve are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 200 reviews. More than 4000 hikers have used komoot to explore North Shore Environmental Reserve's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 8, 2026
5.0
(2)
28
hikers
12.5km
03:08
10m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(47)
726
hikers
11.0km
03:01
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.8
(28)
698
hikers
5.58km
01:31
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(60)
453
hikers
7.31km
01:59
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
55
hikers
3.37km
00:51
0m
0m
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 Big Pelican, also known as "Old Mate," has stood tall since the 90s. It was built by the Pelican Boat Hire, looks happy, and is beloved by tourists. The area is home to many Australian pelicans, so there is a good chance to see a real pelican fishing or floating in the water as well.
0
0
Ely Park is a long, thin beachside park with grassy areas and shade from trees. There is a small sandy shore where it's easy to wade into the water, jetties, and lots of cafés and restaurants just across Gympie Terrace. There are also public toilets here right next to the Noosa River Foreshore Path.
0
0
This pedestrian bridge crosses over Noosa Waters right before it reaches the Noosa River. On the west side of the bridge sits Chaplin Park, and on the east side of the bridge sits Tewantin Noosa Lions Park, two beautiful riverside greenspaces. It's a scenic walk over the bridge, and there are lots of restaurants and hotels within walking distance.
0
0
Granite Bay is a striking section of coastline along the Noosa National Park, made up of exposed rock platforms with waves moving in around the edges. It stands out along the route and feels like a bit of a hidden gem compared to the busier beaches nearby. The setting is raw and open, with constant ocean movement and clear views along the coast.
0
0
Noosa National Park centres around the Noosa Headland, with coastal scenery, bushland, and a mix of environments extending out towards areas like Lake Weyba, Peregian, and Coolum. Despite being close to built-up areas, it feels like a protected pocket of nature, with eucalypt forest, wetlands, heathland, and sections of denser rainforest.
0
0
Devils Kitchen is a narrow coastal gorge created by the collapse of a former sea cave, leaving a deep, open chasm in the headland. Sheer rock walls drop down to the ocean below, where waves surge and echo through the gap. The fenced viewpoint offers a direct view into the formation, perfect for an up-close perspective and a strong sense of the ocean's power and the rugged, eroded coastline.
0
0
Coastal Walk follows the coastline through Noosa National Park, connecting headlands, beaches, and rocky bays along the way. The track is well-formed and easy to follow, with a mix of compacted path, boardwalks, and some uneven sections. There are plenty of beautiful ocean views the entire way, with regular access to lookouts and side tracks to beaches, making this an ideal way to spend the day enjoying the breathtaking scenery.
0
0
This scenic headland viewpoint is known for frequent dolphin sightings as they cruise the coastline below. There are wide views across Laguna Bay and back toward Noosa Heads, with benches for resting and watching the ocean. The open, elevated vantage point makes it a popular spot for wildlife spotting, especially during whale migration season.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in North Shore Environmental Reserve?
The North Shore Environmental Reserve offers a wonderful selection of family-friendly hiking trails. You'll find 25 routes specifically curated for families, with 19 of these being easy and 6 considered moderate, ensuring there's something for every skill level.
What kind of landscapes can we expect to see on family hikes in the North Shore Environmental Reserve?
The North Shore Environmental Reserve is renowned for its diverse landscapes. Depending on the specific trail, you can expect stunning coastal views, dense forests, and unique geological formations. Many areas feature beautiful shorelines, offering opportunities to enjoy marine environments and observe wildlife. Some trails might even lead you through wetlands or past dramatic rock formations.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families in the North Shore Environmental Reserve?
Yes, there are several excellent circular routes perfect for families. For an easy and scenic option, consider the Noosa National Park circuit, which is about 7.3 km long. Another great choice is the Granite Bay – Hell's Gates loop from Noosa Heads, an easy 7.1 km hike offering coastal vistas. For a longer, moderate challenge, the Hiking loop from Sacred Nature Refuge covers approximately 12.5 km.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails in North Shore Environmental Reserve?
The North Shore Environmental Reserve is highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.6 stars from 238 reviews. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the stunning coastal scenery, and the diverse natural beauty that makes these trails enjoyable for all ages.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly hiking trails?
While many areas within environmental reserves welcome dogs, specific regulations can vary by trail and protected area. It's always best to check the local signage at the trailhead or the official website for the specific section of the North Shore Environmental Reserve you plan to visit to confirm their pet policy. Some areas may require dogs to be on a leash, while others might have restrictions to protect wildlife.
What is the typical length of family-friendly trails in the North Shore Environmental Reserve?
The family-friendly trails in the North Shore Environmental Reserve vary in length to suit different preferences and ages. You'll find shorter, easy walks like the Hell's Gates Walk at around 5.6 km, perfect for younger children or a quick outing. Longer options, such as the Dolphin Point, Hell's Gates and Devils Kitchen via Coastal Walk, extend to about 11 km for families seeking a more extensive adventure.
What kind of wildlife might we encounter on a family hike?
The diverse habitats of the North Shore Environmental Reserve support a rich array of wildlife. Depending on the specific location and time of year, you might spot various bird species, including coastal and forest birds. Marine life can often be observed from coastal trails, and smaller mammals are also present. Areas with wetlands are particularly good for birdwatching.
Are there any trails that offer dramatic coastal views or unique geological features?
Absolutely! Many trails in the North Shore Environmental Reserve are celebrated for their breathtaking coastal vistas and interesting geological formations. The Dolphin Point, Hell's Gates and Devils Kitchen via Coastal Walk is a prime example, offering dramatic views and unique rock formations like Hell's Gates and Devil's Kitchen. These areas often feature ancient volcanic terrain or granite formations descending to tidal pools.
Is public transport available to access family-friendly trails in the North Shore Environmental Reserve?
Access to trails via public transport can vary significantly depending on the specific section of the North Shore Environmental Reserve you wish to visit. While some popular trailheads might be served by local bus routes, others may require private vehicle access. We recommend checking local public transport schedules and routes for the specific starting point of your chosen hike.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in the North Shore Environmental Reserve?
The best time to visit the North Shore Environmental Reserve for family hiking largely depends on the specific climate of the region. Generally, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, making them ideal. Summer can be wonderful for coastal walks, but be prepared for warmer weather. Winter can also be beautiful, especially in areas with mild winters, but some trails might be less accessible depending on conditions.
Are there parking facilities available at the trailheads?
Most popular trailheads within the North Shore Environmental Reserve offer designated parking facilities. However, during peak seasons or on weekends, these can fill up quickly. It's always a good idea to arrive early, especially for well-known routes, or to have an alternative parking plan in mind. Some smaller or more remote access points might have limited or no official parking.
Most popular routes in North Shore Environmental Reserve
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
