How to do Glass House Mountains National Park

HOW TO

Hikers standing at the top of Mount Ngungun at sunrise
Danielle Reckless

By Danielle Reckless

Published 2 months ago

Why is it special? | What to know | Trails to explore | Where to stay

Eleven ancient giants pierce the sky just an hour from Brisbane.

The Glass House Mountains aren't just hills with attitude – they're 25-million-year-old volcanic plugs that dominate the Sunshine Coast hinterland like geological rock stars.

Fancy a weekend escape that combines heart-pumping hikes, soul-stirring views, and some seriously old stories? You've found it.

Why are the Glass House Mountains so special?

Aerial view of Mt Ngungun at sunset

Glass House Mountains, Glass House Mountains National Park, Sunshine Coast

Ever seen magma frozen in time? That's basically what you're looking at.

These eleven distinct peaks were once the throat of ancient volcanoes – with Mount Beerwah and Mount Coonowrin standing tallest among their rocky siblings. But the history here goes deeper than geology. Think of this as a classroom that doubles as your daily cardio.

The Jinibara and Gubbi Gubbi Peoples have called this place home since time immemorial. The Dreamtime explains how these oddly-shaped mountains came to be – a family of siblings transformed into stone – connecting visitors to one of the world's oldest living cultures.

Beyond the cultural significance, this national park buzzes with biodiversity. Spot the rare powerful owl, glossy black cockatoo, or tiny wallum froglet if you're lucky. The mountain terrain supports unique eucalypt forests, patches of rainforest, and more than 150 bird species call this rugged landscape home.

A girl and a boy splashing in the water on Vlasoff Cay

Things to know before hiking the Glass House Mountains

Man in wheelchair and woman at a scenic lookout that looks over the peaks of the Glass House Mountains

Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, Maleny, Sunshine Coast

First things first – respect runs deep here.

While Mount Tibrogargan and Mount Beerwah are technically open for climbing, Traditional Owners request visitors consider not climbing these spiritually significant sites. Thankfully, you don't need to summit to appreciate their majesty.

Want the perfect snap without breaking a sweat? Head to:

  • Wild Horse Mountain Lookout: A quick 700m stroll rewards you with panoramic views
  • Glass House Mountains Lookout: Wheelchair accessible with toilets and picnic spots
  • Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve: Grab a coffee, take in the vista, and wander through subtropical rainforest

Before setting off, swing by the Visitor Information Centre. The local experts will arm you with maps, insider tips, and stories about the region that Google just can't match. Plus, you can pick up some locally-made souvenirs to take home.

Best hiking trails in Glass House Mountains National Park

1. Mount Tibrogargan Circuit

Driving through lush landscape with Mount TIbrogargan in the background

Mount Tibrogagan, Glass House Mountains National Park, Sunshine Coast

Mount Tibrogargan might be the third-smallest peak, but it looms large in Dreamtime stories.

The family-friendly 4km Tibrogargan Circuit wraps around the base, offering stellar views without technical climbing. Got kids? This one's perfect for little legs. Start at Tibrogargan Trailhead where you'll find parking and picnic spots.

Feeling adventurous? The 6km Trachyte Circuit delivers epic views from Jack Ferris Lookout. Or, for serious hikers only, tackle the 9km Yul-yan-man track – a Grade 5 challenge with serious rock scrambling that takes at least three hours. 

Rather see it all without the sweat? Book a scenic helicopter ride with Oceanview Helicopters from Caloundra. Mountains from above = next-level bragging rights.

2. MOUNT BEERWAH BASE AND VIEWPOINT

The tallest kid on the block deserves special attention.

Mount Beerwah isn't just the highest peak in the Glass House Mountains – standing over four times taller than Sydney Harbour Bridge – it's also one of southeast Queensland's most culturally significant sites. The 1km Mount Beerwah Base and Viewpoint track takes you through eucalypt forest to a stunning lookout. No technical climbing required, just pure visual joy.

3. MOUNT NGUNGUN SUMMIT WALK

Aerial view of Mt Ngungun at sunset

Mt Ngungun, Glass House Mountains, Sunshine Coast

Want Brisbane's best day hike? You've found it.

The 2.8km Mount Ngungun Summit Walk delivers serious bang for your buck. This two-hour journey through ancient ferns and forest opens to a jaw-dropping 360-degree panorama of Tibrogargan, Coonowrin and Beerwah.

Warning: This track gets steep and skirts some cliff edges. Wear proper shoes (your Havaianas aren't invited) and be extra cautious after rain when the rock surface transforms into nature's slip-and-slides.

4. WILD HORSE MOUNTAIN LOOKOUT

Woman stands at lookout with sunset views of mountain range

Wild Horse Mountain Lookout, Glass House Mountains National Park, Sunshine Coast

Short on time but big on views?

The baby of the family, Wild Horse Mountain offers maximum reward for minimum effort. A quick 700m paved path brings you to sweeping vistas - perfect for sunset chasers, photographers, or anyone who wants the view without the hefty workout.

5. MOUNT BEERBURRUM SUMMIT WALK

A fire tower with views out over a valley and mountain formations in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland

Mount Beerburrum Fire Tower, Glass House Mountains National Park, Sunshine Coast

Don't let the 3.5km distance fool you – this one's a thigh-burner.

The Mount Beerburrum Summit Trail starts gentle through fragrant eucalypt forest before turning seriously steep. Your prize? Reaching the active fire tower with some of the region's most spectacular panoramas.

Plan for about 1.5 hours return, and reward yourself afterward at the charming Cafe Phillies in Beerburrum. Nothing tastes better than post-hike coffee and cake!

6. MOUNT TIBBEROOWUCCUM SUMMIT WALK

Want to escape the crowds? Let us introduce you to the hidden gem of Glass House Mountains hiking trails.

The 2.5km Mount Tibberoowuccum Summit Walk isn't playing around. Starting from Tibrogargan Trailhead, this strenuous loop demands scrambling skills and serious determination. But the secluded summit views of the Glass House Mountains, Sunshine Coast, and hinterland? Worth every drop of sweat.

WHERE TO STAY NEAR GLASS HOUSE MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK

Lady soaking in a bath her villa at Glass on Glasshouse, with views over the Glasshouse Mountains | Bathtubs with amazing views Queensland

Glass On Glasshouse, Glass House Mountains, Sunshine Coast

Make it a weekend? Absolutely.

While the Glass House Mountains is doable as a day trip from Brisbane or the Sunshine Coast, extended stays unlock the full magic of this ancient landscape.

For luxury with a view, Glass on Glasshouse offers eco-friendly accommodation where you can soak in deep bathtubs while mountain-gazing. Nearby, Glasshouse Mountains Ecolodge delivers sustainable vibes with direct trail access.

Animal lovers, listen up! The Crocodile Hunter Lodge (yes, that's the Irwin family's creation) sits near Australia Zoo in Beerwah, great for families who want to combine national park walks and wildlife encounters in the same getaway. Or wake up with cows, chickens and alpacas at Seven Peaks Farm Stay – a 34-acre hobby farm with luxury digs.

Bringing the whole squad? Hillside House offers panoramic views and space for everyone. Budget travelers can park up at Beerwah Caravan Park and still be close to all the action.

Of course, you'll find endless options throughout the Sunshine Coast Hinterland or in nearby Caloundra if you prefer beach vibes beside your mountain adventure.

Ready to stand in the shadow of these ancient sentinels? The Glass House Mountains are waiting to blow your mind.

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