Exercise doesn’t have to take place in a gym or even a class environment.
Just ask long-time Vitalita client Sue. Rain, hail or shine, Sue spends Saturday mornings bush-walking with HikeFit.
We finished the walk and my sister asked what I wanted to do next. In hindsight, I think she was talking about lunch but my immediate thought was: “I want to lose weight and do more of this!”
Get started with seven tried-and-tested bushwalks right on our doorstep in South East Queensland.
1. Mt Coot-tha Forest Park
Various trails, 1.6km – 10.1km
With more than 1600 hectares of open eucalypt forest, rainforest gullies and creek lines, there are many trails to choose from in Mt Cooth-tha Forest Park. Trails range in difficulty and length. Our go-to is the well worn Summit Track. 1.9km it only takes 30 minutes up to the summit and back and dogs are permitted.
Mt Coot-tha Forest Park Trails
2. Chermside Hills Reserve Circuit
Easy 8km loop
This easy loop is mostly flat and, given it’s so close to home, there are really no excuses. Plus it’s dog-friendly!
Chermside Hills Reserve Circuit
3. Enoggera Reservoir Track
Moderate 11.3km loop
Well maintained track with a mix of narrow, winding trails, wide fire tracks and bitumen road. It’s relatively hilly but there’s enough of a break between climbs to keep well-rested. Don’t forget to pack your swimmers so you can cool off in the reservoir!
4. Warrie Circuit
Moderate 16.1km loop
Just south of Brisbane there are plenty of wide open spaces to explore.
This spectacular route in Springbrook National Park is mostly shaded and can be done in either direction. The trail passes multiple waterfalls, meaning it can be muddy and rocky in some sections.
5. Wollumbin Summit Trail
Difficult 8.8km out and back trail
So, technically Mt Warning is in New South Wales but Wollumbin National Park is so close to Brisbane we had to include it.
This walk is rated difficult, primarily because of the relatively steep, rocky scramble at the top using chains to pull yourself up. Although we saw a woman walking barefoot, we recommend wearing sturdy walking shoes or boots!
6. Kin Kin Countryside Loop
Moderate 15.1km loop
‘Thank you for slowing down’, read the sign as we wandered down a dusty lane.
Walking is the slowest way to experience the world around you and, in four hours it took to complete this loop, we didn’t see a single person on foot. We did encounter more than a dozen kangaroos, an angry heard of cows, and a deafening chorus of cicadas.
7. Mt Coolum Track
Easy 1.6km, out and back trail
A bit like the Mt Coot-tha Summit Track, the family-friendly Mt Coolum Track is well-worn. If you can, go on a weekday to avoid the weekend hoards. Beware trail runners who dash up and down the mountain!
Walking allows us to rediscover simple pleasures and joys and we are so blessed to have such natural beauty right here on our doorstep!
Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature’s peace will flow into you as the sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares will drop away from you like the leaves of autumn – John Muir
