The Cooloola Wilderness Trail is a challenging 48km, grade 4 hike located within the Great Sandy National Park, Queensland. This multi-day adventure (3-5 days) is perfect for experienced hikers seeking a remote and serene wilderness experience.
The trail winds through Cooloola's wetlands and river system, offering stunning scenery. Camp under a blanket of stars and explore diverse landscapes, including riverine rainforests, towering eucalyptus forests, and drier woodlands. Discover hidden gems like remote waterholes, unique scribbly gum woodlands, and rainforest-edged creeks. During springtime, witness an explosion of wildflowers that attract a variety of native wildlife like bees, birds, bats, and gliders.
Listen to the vibrant soundscape of the trail. Hear the calls of noisy friarbirds and the distinctive "popping corn" sounds of yellow-tailed black cockatoos feeding. In the early mornings and evenings, be captivated by the chorus of frogs emanating from the reed-lined riverbanks. Rest and recharge at designated camping areas like Fig Tree Point, Harrys Hut, Wandi Waterhole, or Neebs Waterhole.
This extended 5-day hike traverses the entire length of Cooloola, showcasing giant sand dunes, hidden rainforests, and breathtaking displays of spring wildflowers. Immerse yourself in a symphony of nature sounds, both day and night.
The Cooloola Wilderness Trail offers flexibility. It starts near the Habitat Noosa Everglades Eco Camp by Lake Cootharaba, and can be completed in either direction or broken down into shorter sections. Be prepared for occasional sections where your feet may get wet. While not overly crowded, be sure to check park conditions before you set off.
The Kabi Kabi and Butchulla people have a deep cultural and spiritual connection to this land. Together with the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS), they ask all visitors to treat Cooloola and Inskip Country with respect and care. Your visit is a chance to slow down, breathe fresh air, and appreciate the beauty and significance of this special place.
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Total distance: 49566 m
Max elevation: 89 m
Min elevation: 4 m
Total climbing: 641 m
Total descent: -563 m
Getting to the trailhead: Great Sandy National Park.
The Cooloola Wilderness Trail lies within the Cooloola Recreation Area of Great Sandy National Park. Situated on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, it’s accessible from both the south (Noosa Heads) and north (Rainbow Beach). Remember to pick up camping permits during business hours before you begin your hike.
Southern Access (Elanda Point):
- Starting from Brisbane, take the Bruce Highway or Sunshine Motorway north for 135km, or travel 58km south and east from Gympie on the Bruce Highway until you reach Tewantin.
- In Tewantin, head west and north for 19km via McKinnon Drive and Louis Bazzo Drive to Boreen Point. Turn onto Lake Flat Road and continue for 2km until you reach the Elanda Point access road.
- Follow this access road for a short distance until you find the Elanda Point car park. The trailhead for the Cooloola Wilderness Trail is located directly opposite the car park.
Northern Access (Rainbow Beach):
- From Brisbane, travel north on the Bruce Highway for approximately 160km towards Gympie. At Gympie’s southern edge, take Tin Can Bay Road for 42km, then turn right onto Rainbow Beach Road.
- Alternatively, you can reach Rainbow Beach Road from Maryborough by driving south for 57km on the Cooloola Coast Road. Turn left onto Tin Can Bay Road for 3.5km, then turn right onto Rainbow Beach Road.
- Continue on Rainbow Beach Road for 7km towards Rainbow Beach. Look out for the Cooloola Wilderness Trail signage within Mullens car park on your right. This marks the entrance to the trail.
Closest towns to this walk: Cooroy, Fraser Island, Gympie, Hervey Bay, Maryborough, Noosa Heads, Pomona, Rainbow Beach, Tin Can Bay
Cooloola, a section of Great Sandy National Park, stuns visitors with its wind and water sculpted landscapes. Towering, colorful sand cliffs and massive dunes line the vast ocean beaches. Beyond the shore, explore tall forests bursting with fragrant wildflowers and paperbark swamps. Diverse water features like crashing surf, freshwater lakes, and the tranquil upper Noosa River complete this breathtaking scene.
Immerse yourself in Cooloola's wonders through various activities. Hike along scenic tracks and discover historical landmarks like the Double Island Point lighthouse. Enjoy a multi-day adventure by backpacking the Cooloola Wilderness Trail, a 2-4 day trek perfect for experienced hikers.
Explore at your own pace. Take a scenic drive along Cooloola's eastern beach or navigate the Cooloola Way and Freshwater Road, traversing towering forests and open heathlands. Remember, tackling the sand tracks or beach driving requires a four-wheel-drive vehicle with high clearance (best attempted during low tide). Alternatively, find serenity by paddling through the peaceful upper Noosa River.
Escape the daily grind and experience an unforgettable camping adventure. Choose from various campsites catering to different preferences. Well-equipped campgrounds with amenities offer a comfortable stay, while walkers' camps provide a more rustic experience, accompanied by birdsong and refreshing sea breezes. Park information centers in Tewantin and Rainbow Beach offer valuable advice and assistance.
Important Note: Don't forget to obtain camping permits and vehicle access permits before venturing into Cooloola.
Looking for more walks in or near Great Sandy National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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Grade 4 (Hard) -
Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the
AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.
Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure
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