Where to Hike With Your Dog in QLD: 10 Trails From the Coast to the Granite Belt
Let's be real — your dog doesn't care about your weekend plans.
They care about smells, mud, and the possibility of a swim.
Good news: Queensland has no shortage of trails that tick all three boxes.
Whether you're a Brisbane local looking to escape the city grid, or you're road-tripping down the coast with your four-legged co-pilot, we've rounded up some of the best dog-friendly hikes in Queensland.
We've also packed in a few handy tips to make sure your adventure goes smoothly — for both of you.
One heads up before you hit the trails: dogs are not permitted in Queensland national parks.
The good news is that conservation parks, state forests, and council reserves offer some seriously great alternatives — and that's exactly where this guide lives.
Brisbane & Surrounds
1. Devils Break Loop — Moggill Conservation Park
Distance: 6km loop | Difficulty: Moderate | Leash: On-leash
Just 22km west of the CBD, Moggill Conservation Park is a proper bushland escape without the long drive.
Devils Break Loop takes in dry eucalypt forest, a few sharp climbs and sweeping views out over Brisbane and Ipswich on a clear day.
Start from the Chalcot Road gate and follow it clockwise for the best views along the way.
Best for: Confident dogs who don't mind a hill. Sections can be loose and rocky, so decent footwear (for both of you) is a must.
2. Bunyaville Track and Tree Discovery Circuit — Bunyaville Conservation Park
Distance: 2.9km loop | Difficulty: Easy | Leash: Off-leash in some areas
Just 15km northwest of the CBD, Bunyaville's open eucalypt forests and scattered creeks make it a great mid-week trail hit.
This loop combines the Bunyaville Track with the Tree Discovery Circuit — a family-friendly path showcasing everything from towering stringybarks to spotted gums.
Start and end at The Gully Picnic Area.
3. Mount Coot-tha Summit via JC Slaughter Falls — Mt Coot-tha Reserve
Distance: 6.8km return | Difficulty: Moderate | Leash: On-leash
A Brisbane classic for good reason. This trail climbs steadily through sub-tropical rainforest and eucalypt forest to the summit of Mount Coot-tha, rewarding you with sweeping views over the city.
Along the way you'll pass JC Slaughter Falls on East Ithaca Creek — best seen after a bit of rain.
Start and finish at the JC Slaughter Falls picnic area, where there's parking and a public toilet block.
4. Kedron Brook Track — Brisbane's Northern Suburbs
Distance: 7.7km loop | Difficulty: Easy–Moderate | Leash: Off-leash in some areas
A lush, winding green corridor following Kedron Brook through Brisbane's north — sun-drenched paths, shaded groves of paperbarks and silky oaks, and plenty of birdlife to keep curious noses busy.
Mostly flat and paved, with some sections transitioning onto suburban streets.
Great for a relaxed Sunday stroll rather than a serious workout.
5. Samford Conservation Park Loop — Samford Valley
Distance: 10.3km loop | Difficulty: Moderate | Leash: On-leash
Just 20 minutes from the city, Samford Conservation Park is a genuine training ground for locals — ironbark forests, a good dose of elevation, and enough space to make it feel miles from the suburbs.
Wide fire trails make for steady walking, though there are a few steep pinches to keep things interesting.
Start from the Ironbark Gully picnic area.
Best for: Fitter dogs looking for a solid workout. Watch for horse riders and mountain bikers sharing the trail.
Sunshine Coast
6. Kings Beach to Shelley Beach — Caloundra
Distance: 5.8km return | Difficulty: Moderate | Leash: On-leash, with beach access points
Soak up the classic Sunshine Coast lifestyle on this paved coastal path connecting Kings Beach to the quiet, rock-pool-covered Shelley Beach.
Spectacular headland views, plenty of spots to stop for a swim, and heaps of facilities along the way including toilets and playgrounds.
A fantastic one for the whole family — dog included.
7. Obi Obi Creek Walk — Maleny
Distance: 4.8km return | Difficulty: Easy | Leash: On-leash
Up in the Blackall Range hinterland, this boardwalk-and-gravel trail follows the banks of Obi Obi Creek and is one of the best spots in Queensland to try your luck spotting a wild platypus.
The path connects the Maleny Showgrounds to the town centre through rainforest pockets and open green fields.
Early morning or late afternoon gives you the best shot at platypus, turtles and kingfishers.
Gold Coast
8. Labrador Marine Parade — Broadwater Parklands
Distance: 3.5km return | Difficulty: Easy | Leash: On-leash
A level, fully paved pathway hugging the Broadwater shoreline between Harley Park and Lands End — sea breezes, skyline views, and Ian Dipple Lagoon for a spot of birdwatching along the way.
Shared with cyclists and skaters, so keep to the left.
A great low-key option if you want water views without the sand.
9. North Kirra Beach to Tugun Beach
Distance: 6.8km return | Difficulty: Easy | Leash: On-leash
A wide, paved beachside path stretching between North Kirra and Tugun, with constant views of the Pacific and the relaxed seaside stretch of Bilinga in between.
Exceptionally flat and smooth — great for a leisurely stroll or an easy morning walk before the Queensland heat kicks in.
Plenty of beachfront cafes if you fancy a coffee stop.
Granite Belt
10. Mount Marlay Walk — Stanthorpe
Distance: 2.1km return | Difficulty: Moderate | Leash: On-leash
If you're out exploring the Granite Belt wine region, this short but punchy trail to the summit of Mount Marlay is well worth the detour.
The route follows road, bush trail and a narrow concreted path around the summit, finishing at a lookout with free binoculars and picnic tables.
There's no shade at the top, so pack water and sun protection for both of you.
Best for: A quick leg-stretch between cellar door visits — the views over Stanthorpe make it worth the short, steep push.
Trail Tips Before You Head Out
A few things worth knowing before you lace up:
- Dogs are not permitted in Queensland national parks. Always check if your trail sits in a conservation park, state forest, or council reserve before you go.
- Always carry water for your dog, especially in summer. A foldable/collapsible bowl takes up zero space and saves a lot of grief.
- Pick up after your pup. Carry your waste bag out if there's no bin at the trailhead. Leaving bags on the side of the trail is the fastest way to get a trail shut to dogs.
- A good collar and lead make a big difference on uneven terrain — better control for you, more comfort for your dog. All Wet Dog and Co leads and collars are made from recycled plastic bottles, so you can feel as good about your gear as you do about your Sunday adventure.
- Check signage on arrival. On-leash and off-leash zones can vary within the same trail — don't rely on memory or outdated apps.
- Trail conditions change — always check recent AllTrails reviews before heading out, especially after heavy rain or during Queensland's humid summer months.
Ready to get out there?
Whether you're tackling Devils Break Loop or just doing laps of Kedron Brook on a Tuesday afternoon, your dog is going to make it better.
Grab the lead, pack a water bowl, and go find some dirt.
And if you're after gear that's built for adventure and made from recycled plastic bottles, you know where to find us.
