The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Arthur Harrold Nature Refuge
4.7
(301)
4,487
hikers
51
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Arthur Harrold Nature Refuge traverse a diverse landscape, featuring coastal areas, woodlands, and unique wallum heathlands. The region is characterized by its varied ecosystems, including sections of scribbly gum and melaleuca forests. Hikers can explore pathways that lead to coastal views and through distinct Australian bushland scenery. The terrain generally offers accessible paths with some routes including gentle elevation changes.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Arthur Harrold Nature Refuge
- The most popular family friendly…
Last updated: July 8, 2026
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.
42
hikers
9.20km
02:19
10m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(4)
340
hikers
4.63km
01:14
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(13)
107
hikers
12.1km
03:18
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
69
hikers
6.47km
01:38
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This small park has more to offer than its size might suggests. There's a playround, plenty of seating and shade, views over the water, and it's right next to a number of great restaurants.
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This riverside park is named after famous Noosa author and conservationist Nancy Cato, who published over 20 books ranging from poetry to biographies, short stories and novels. The park has large open areas, shaded benches, a fresh water tap, and shaded pathways. It's well connected to other parks via these paths and public transit, so you can easily explore this park and others while you're in Noosa.
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Alexandria Bay Beach is beautiful but with strong permanent rip tides, deep troughs, and no lifeguards on duty, swimming is not recommended. It is an isolated beach, and has historically been as an unofficial, gay-friendly nude beach.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Arthur Harrold Nature Refuge?
There are over 40 family-friendly hiking trails in Arthur Harrold Nature Refuge, with 30 of them rated as easy, making them perfect for outings with children. The remaining trails are moderate, offering a bit more challenge for active families.
What kind of landscapes can we expect to see on family hikes in Arthur Harrold Nature Refuge?
Arthur Harrold Nature Refuge offers a diverse range of landscapes. You can explore stunning coastal areas with ocean vistas, wander through shaded scribbly gum and melaleuca forests, and discover unique heathlands and 'wallum country' known for their vibrant wildflowers and distinct plant communities. It's a journey through varied natural beauty.
Are there any easy coastal walks suitable for families?
Absolutely! Many family-friendly trails offer beautiful coastal scenery. For an easy walk with great views, consider the Noosa Beach – Dolphin Point Lookout loop from Noosa Heads, which is just over 4.6 km. Another excellent option is the Noosa Beach – Cliffs at Noosa National Park loop from Noosa Heads, offering scenic coastal cliffs.
Can we find circular routes that are good for families?
Yes, there are several enjoyable circular routes. The Noosa Beach – Dolphin Point Lookout loop from Noosa Heads is a popular easy option. For a slightly longer, moderate loop that takes you to more dramatic coastal features, the Hell's Gates – Alexandria Bay Beach loop from Noosa Heads is a fantastic choice.
What is the best time of year to visit Arthur Harrold Nature Refuge with family?
The refuge is beautiful year-round, but for vibrant wildflower displays, especially in the wallum heath, visiting during the appropriate season is recommended. Cooler, drier months generally offer more comfortable hiking conditions for families, avoiding the peak heat and humidity of summer.
What kind of wildlife might we see on the trails?
As a 'biodiversity hotspot,' the refuge offers opportunities to observe unique species. The wallum ecosystem supports various threatened and endangered creatures, along with many varieties of honeyeaters, parrots, fairy-wrens, finches, and reptiles like skinks and goannas. Keep an eye out, especially in the diverse habitats.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly hiking trails?
The specific dog policy for Arthur Harrold Nature Refuge can vary, as it is a protected area. Generally, nature refuges in Queensland have restrictions on pets to protect native wildlife. It's best to check the official Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service website for the most current regulations regarding dogs before planning your visit.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Arthur Harrold Nature Refuge?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 300 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning coastal views, the diverse natural environments from beaches to forests, and the variety of trails suitable for different fitness levels, including many easy options perfect for families.
Are there any easy trails that start near Weyba Creek Bushland Reserve North?
Yes, there is an easy family-friendly option starting from that area. The Noosa Beach loop from Weyba Creek Bushland Reserve North is a 6.5 km route with minimal elevation gain, making it a pleasant walk for families.
Where can we find parking for these family-friendly trails?
Parking availability varies depending on the specific trailhead. For trails starting near Noosa Heads, such as the Noosa Beach – Dolphin Point Lookout loop, you'll typically find public parking in the Noosa Heads area. For routes originating from other points like Tewantin or Weyba Creek Bushland Reserve North, look for designated parking areas nearby.
Are there any cafes or facilities near the trailheads?
Given the refuge's proximity to popular areas like Noosa Heads and Tewantin, you'll find a good selection of cafes, restaurants, and public facilities in these towns. It's a great way to refuel before or after your family hike.
Most popular routes in Arthur Harrold Nature Refuge
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