The best walks and hikes in North Shore Environmental Reserve
4.6
(202)
3,079
hikers
25
hikes
Hiking in North Shore Environmental Reserve offers diverse trails through coastal landscapes and varied ecosystems. The region features a mix of woodlands, shoreline paths, and some hilly sections, providing a range of experiences for hikers. Trails often lead through areas with rich plant life and offer views of the surrounding natural environment.
Best hiking trails in North Shore Environmental Reserve
- The most popular hiking route is Hiking loop from Sacred Nature Refuge, a 7.8 miles (12.5 km) trail that takes 3 hours 8 minutes to complete. This moderate route features minimal elevation gain.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Dolphin Point, Hell's Gates and Devils Kitchen via Coastal Walk, a moderate 6.8 miles (11.0 km) path. This trail offers coastal scenery and includes some elevation changes.
- Local hikers also love the Hell's Gates Walk, a 3.5 miles (5.6 km) trail leading through coastal areas, often completed in about 1 hour 31 minutes.
- Hiking in North Shore Environmental Reserve is defined by coastal paths, woodlands, and varied ecosystems. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to moderate hikes.
- The routes in North Shore Environmental Reserve are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 140 reviews. More than 3000 hikers have used komoot to explore North Shore Environmental Reserve's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
5.0
(2)
24
hikers
12.5km
03:08
10m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(42)
684
hikers
11.0km
03:01
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.8
(26)
645
hikers
5.58km
01:31
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(54)
432
hikers
7.31km
01:59
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(42)
352
hikers
7.13km
01:56
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Granite Bay is a striking section of coastline along the Noosa National Park, made up of exposed rock platforms with waves moving in around the edges. It stands out along the route and feels like a bit of a hidden gem compared to the busier beaches nearby. The setting is raw and open, with constant ocean movement and clear views along the coast.
0
0
Noosa National Park centres around the Noosa Headland, with coastal scenery, bushland, and a mix of environments extending out towards areas like Lake Weyba, Peregian, and Coolum. Despite being close to built-up areas, it feels like a protected pocket of nature, with eucalypt forest, wetlands, heathland, and sections of denser rainforest.
0
0
Devils Kitchen is a narrow coastal gorge created by the collapse of a former sea cave, leaving a deep, open chasm in the headland. Sheer rock walls drop down to the ocean below, where waves surge and echo through the gap. The fenced viewpoint offers a direct view into the formation, perfect for an up-close perspective and a strong sense of the ocean's power and the rugged, eroded coastline.
0
0
Coastal Walk follows the coastline through Noosa National Park, connecting headlands, beaches, and rocky bays along the way. The track is well-formed and easy to follow, with a mix of compacted path, boardwalks, and some uneven sections. There are plenty of beautiful ocean views the entire way, with regular access to lookouts and side tracks to beaches, making this an ideal way to spend the day enjoying the breathtaking scenery.
0
0
This scenic headland viewpoint is known for frequent dolphin sightings as they cruise the coastline below. There are wide views across Laguna Bay and back toward Noosa Heads, with benches for resting and watching the ocean. The open, elevated vantage point makes it a popular spot for wildlife spotting, especially during whale migration season.
0
0
Hell’s Gates is an impressive coastal lookout where sheer cliffs drop to the ocean and waves surge through a narrow rocky gap. There are sweeping views north toward Alexandria Bay and south back along the rugged headland. The exposed, windswept setting is one of the most memorable vantage points on the Noosa coastline.
0
0
Very worth seeing, you have to see it
0
0
Very worth seeing, you have to see it
0
1
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in North Shore Environmental Reserve?
There are over 20 hiking routes in North Shore Environmental Reserve, offering a variety of experiences. The majority, around 18, are considered easy, while 6 are moderate. There are no difficult trails listed, making it accessible for many skill levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the hiking trails?
The trails in North Shore Environmental Reserve feature diverse terrain, including coastal paths, woodlands, and varied ecosystems. You can expect shoreline walks, some hilly sections, and areas with rich plant life. For example, the Dolphin Point, Hell's Gates and Devils Kitchen via Coastal Walk offers coastal scenery with some elevation changes.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the area?
Yes, North Shore Environmental Reserve has many easy trails suitable for families. For instance, the Hell's Gates Walk is an easy 5.6 km trail that takes about 1 hour 31 minutes to complete. Another great option is the Noosa Beach – Dolphin Point Lookout loop from Noosa Heads, which is 4.6 km and offers pleasant coastal views.
Can I find circular hiking routes in North Shore Environmental Reserve?
Yes, there are several circular routes available. A popular option is the Hiking loop from Sacred Nature Refuge, a moderate 12.5 km trail with minimal elevation gain. Another is the Granite Bay – Hell's Gates loop from Noosa Heads, an easy 7.1 km loop.
What do other hikers say about the trails in North Shore Environmental Reserve?
The hiking routes in North Shore Environmental Reserve are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 140 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse coastal paths, woodlands, and varied ecosystems, noting the options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to moderate hikes.
What are some of the longer hiking options available?
For a longer hike, consider the Hiking loop from Sacred Nature Refuge, which covers 12.5 km and typically takes around 3 hours 8 minutes. Another substantial route is the Dolphin Point, Hell's Gates and Devils Kitchen via Coastal Walk, spanning 11.0 km with some elevation changes.
Are there any trails with significant elevation changes for a more challenging experience?
While most trails are easy to moderate, some do offer more noticeable elevation. The Dolphin Point, Hell's Gates and Devils Kitchen via Coastal Walk, for example, has an elevation gain of approximately 183 meters, providing a more undulating coastal experience.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see while hiking?
The North Shore Environmental Reserve offers a rich variety of natural features. You can expect to see diverse habitats including woodlands, shoreline areas, and varied plant communities. Many trails provide scenic views of the surrounding natural environment, often featuring coastal vistas and glimpses of local wildlife.
Is there a specific trail that offers a good overview of the coastal scenery?
The Dolphin Point, Hell's Gates and Devils Kitchen via Coastal Walk is an excellent choice for experiencing the coastal scenery. This moderate 11.0 km path offers expansive views and takes you through some of the most picturesque parts of the reserve's shoreline.
How long does it typically take to complete a hike in North Shore Environmental Reserve?
Hiking durations vary depending on the trail length and your pace. Easy trails like the Hell's Gates Walk can be completed in about 1 hour 31 minutes. Longer, moderate routes such as the Hiking loop from Sacred Nature Refuge typically take around 3 hours 8 minutes.
What makes North Shore Environmental Reserve a unique hiking destination?
North Shore Environmental Reserve stands out for its combination of coastal landscapes and diverse ecosystems. It offers a unique blend of woodlands and shoreline paths, providing opportunities to explore varied plant life and enjoy scenic views. The area's natural beauty and well-maintained trails make it a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
Most popular routes in North Shore Environmental Reserve
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
