Hovea Track & Hoop Pine Track
Brisbane
Mount Coot-Tha Forest
A combination of two popular walks, featuring the typically dry J.C. Slaughter Falls, aboriginal artwork and lovely bushland.
This heavily trafficked walk combines two short tracks accessed from the J.C. Slaughter Falls picnic area (at the very end of the road, or extend the walk via the path adjacent to the car park).
Start the walk along the Summit Track, a paved walk leading to Mount Coot-Tha lookout, and follow signs to J.C. Slaughter Falls (on the Hoop Pine Track).
The walk begins alongside East Ithica Creek, which is typically dry unless there has been substantial recent rain. You will also pass a picnic area and tables and BBQs nestled among the trees.
Cross the creek three times using the paved footpaths, enjoying views up the rocky creek. Between the second and third crossing, there is a weir and small pond on the left.
Shortly after the third creek crossing, leave the paved track and take the graded track right to J.C. Slaughter Falls.
The falls can be viewed from a number of rocky outcrops or from the constructed wooden platform.
Look for the aboriginal artwork on the rocks (a snake and handprints) – part of the disappointingly decommissioned old Aboriginal Artwork Trail (now the Hoop Pine Track).
Continue on through towering eucalypts, down some wooden stairs back to East Ithica Creek and the Summit Trail. Turn left to start the return leg.
Immediately following the creek crossing, take the stairs to the left – the Hovea Track. This track ascends and descends through the forest to another creek crossing near the picnic area.
Cross the creek and turn left to return to the starting point. The Bush Chapel is a recommended short side-track near the start of the walk.
The falls and creek come alive after significant heavy rainfall, however it should be noted that this typically only lasts for a few days before drying out again.
Track: A mix of paved and graded tracks, including stairs. The walks are relatively well-signed and easy to follow, but there is a web of hiking and mountain bike tracks in the forest so keep that in mind.
Difficulty: The track is suitable for all fitness levels.
Direction: This is a loop track done in a figure eight style as detailed above (two walks that branch right from the Summit Track. It can also be completed in a standard loop, clockwise or anticlockwise.
getting there
The trail starts from the very end of the J.C. Slaughter Falls picnic area off Sir Samuel Griffith Drive in Mount Coot-Tha (near Birdwood Terrace), 15 minutes drive west of Brisbane.
There is ample parking, but this location is very busy on weekends given the picnic area.
best time to go
The walk can be completed year-round.
An early start on a weekend or a weekday visit is advised.
The track is especially scenic after significant heavy rain, when the falls and creek flow, however be sure to check the Brisbane City Council website for updates regarding flooding and track closures.
Remember, whenever venturing into the outdoors, practice the Leave No Trace principles and be considerate of others. This means: dispose of your waste properly, don't remove things or move things from their natural position and respect all wildlife. Also be sure to plan ahead and adequately prepare for any adventure.
I respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which all activities listed on this website are found, as well as Elders past, present and emerging. I strive to not promote sites where requests have been made for people not to explore due to the cultural significance of the site to Indigenous peoples, or note how to respectfully visit a site. If I have a promoted a site with cultural significance, please send me a message and let me know.