We all love a hike, especially in the spring, when the weather is starting to get warmer, without reaching the scorching temperatures of summer. But sometimes a simple hike is not enought to scratch the itch for the great outdoors and, with a long weekend coming up, this is the perfect time to take on one of AllTrail’s top 10 backpacking routes in Australia: Northbrook Mountain.
Ranked at #5 out of the whole country, this Queensland gem in D’Aguilar National Park can be done in one day, but is best enjoyed as an unhurried, 2-day walk, thanks to its nearby cosy campground.
Start your hike just up the road from the carpark at White Cedar, where Cattleyards Break joins the Northbrook Parkway. Surrounded by a lush wet sclerophyll forest, you’ll be walking along and crossing pristine creeks on your way up, with the trail becomes steeper as you ascend towards the Northbrook Mountain Summit.
The view from the peak is nothing short of breathtaking: think sprawling tributaries, emerald trees as far as the eye can see, hardy mountain heath and, if you happen to catch it at the right time, colourful bursts of wildflowers!
The campsite is a short 15-minute walk from the summit, so once you’ve had your fill of the vista, you can stroll to your starlit accommodation, whose views overlooking Kipper Creek are nothing to sniff at either.
After refueling and catching some Z’s in your tents, you can take your time with the rest of the loop, which will seem like nothing after the previous day!
Read all about this backpacking experience and plan your trip on AllTrails.
Key features
- Where: D’Aguilar National Park
- Distance: 9.5km loop
- Time: Around 4 – 4.5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Start point: White Cedar
- Highlights: Creeks, eucaliptus forest, summit views, wildflowers
- What to bring: Drinking water, first-aid kit, rubbish bags, sturdy shoes, hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, snacks, suitable clothing, fuel stove, and tent.
- Important: Check the weather and park alerts before setting out. We recommend booking the campsite in advance, as there are a limited number of spots. You can do so here.
Getting there
White Cedar just outside D’Aguilar National Park is around about an hour’s drive from Brisbane. Simply follow Mt Glorious Rd before turning onto White Cedar, with parking available onsite.
