Glass House Mountains

From picturesque lookouts to spectacular hikes, the Glass House Mountains offer up plenty of unique ways to experience their beauty. Before you set out, keep an eye on current park alerts on the Queensland Government's Parks and Forests website.

Ancient icons

Glass House Mountains from Wild Horse Mountain Lookout, Sunshine Coast Hinterland

Looking like something straight out of Jurassic Park, these magnificent rocky outcrops are remnants of volcanic activity that occurred millions of years ago. As the volcanic molten rock cooled, 11 awe-inspiring vertical ranges emerged over time. It's also an area steeped in First Nations history. A special meeting place of cultural and spiritual significance for the Traditional Owners of the Sunshine Coast, the Kabi Kabi and Jinibara peoples, many ceremonies and social activities have been held here—so it’s important to acknowledge and pay your respects on your visit.

Lace up the hiking boots

Sunset at Mt Coonowrin, Glass House Mountains, Sunshine Coast Hinterland

An abundance of hiking trails and jaw-dropping lookouts will have you trekking through gullies, coastal plains, and woodlands alongside local wildlife. Koalas, goannas, echidnas, grey kangaroos, and the glossy black cockatoo all call this part of the world home.

Not sure where your hiking boots should take you first? The Glass House Mountains Visitor and Interpretive Centre is a great place to start, with loads of helpful information available about the mountains and the region’s history.

Families will enjoy the ease of the Tibrogargan Circuit as it weaves through beautiful eucalypt forest and casuarina groves around the mountain’s base. There’s also a bunch of picnic tables dotted along the way so you can whip out the trail mix and refuel.

Hiking at sunset on Mount Ngungun, Glass House Mountains, Sunshine Coast Hinterland

If you’re seeking that dreamy shot for Instagram, Mount Ngungun offers one of the most popular hikes on the Sunshine Coast. This 2.8km trail starts in a dreamy open forest, ending with 360 vistas of Mount Tibrogargan, Mount Coonowrin, and Mount Beerwah. For a serious ‘pinch me’ moment, aim to do the trek at sunrise or sunset and watch the sky transform into a technicolour rainbow.

Keep the views coming

Camels at QCamel, Bells Creek, Sunshine Coast

For something a bit different, have a cuddle with the friendly camels at QCamel (the world's only Certified Organic camel dairy) which has impressive vistas overlooking the Glass House Mountains. Make sure to also spend some time at Bankfoot House while you're in the area: a state heritage-listed property and the oldest surviving residence in the Glass House Mountains. When it's time to refuel, soak up the views and stop by Glasshouse Plantation to refuel with a cup of Australian-grown coffee and some fresh local goodies.

Looking to spend some more time in this gorgeous part of the world? Check out our guide to 48 hours in the Glass House Mountains.