Mount Coolum
Sunshine Coast
Mount Coolum National Park
A popular, short and steep hike with breathtaking panoramic views of the Sunshine Coast coastline and hinterland.
This heavily trafficked hike starts from the car park on Jarnahill Drive in Coolum.
The track starts with a short walk through bushland before starting the ascent up the face of the mountain.
Rocky steps pave the way to the summit, with the track for the first half of the mountain shrouded in trees before stunning views to the coastline are awarded for the last leg of the hike.
From the top there are expansive and uninterrupted views from purpose built lookouts. These stretch as far as Noosa to the north, Pumicestone Passage to the south and Mount Ninderry, Yandina and the Maroochy River to the west. You can also see Mudjumiba Island to the east.
Sunrise and sunset are the ideal times for completing the walk, however be prepared to share the views, particularly on the weekend, as the walk is a popular one with locals and tourists alike.
Note that this mountain is located within the radius of the no-fly zone from the Sunshine Coast airport, so drone flying at this location is not allowed.
Track: The track involves a graded path to the base of the mountain, followed by a rocky path and steps to the top. It is well-signed and easy to follow.
Difficulty: The track is steep, but is suitable for all fitness levels with sufficient time. From the summit, and various locations along the track, there are sheer drops, so caution must be exercised.
Direction: This is an out-and back track that returns the way it came.
getting there
The trail starts from the car park on Jarnahill Drive in Coolum, 1.5 hours drive north of Brisbane.
Parking can become busy, particularly on weekends, but there is also some on-street parking nearby.
best time to go
The walk can be completed year-round, however is exposed to the sun in places and would be more difficult during the warmer months.
Always check the Queensland Parks website for updates on 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.