Getting kids moving can be a challenge, but if you want to give your child the gift of a life-long love of walking, you’ve got to start small, attainable, and interesting. The ultimate kids walking trifecta! 

Here are our favourite short walks around Brisbane your kids are sure to love.

The Best Short Walks for Kids in Brisbane

1. City Loop – Southbank/Kangaroo Point/City

Okay, bear with me. This is a big loop but you don’t have to do all of it – there are smaller walks within this large 10-ish kilometre route that your little ones will love. The easiest goes from Southbank, across Victoria Bridge to the city, along to QUT, and then across the Goodwill Bridge back to Southbank. 

Or, head from Southbank along the base of the Kangaroo Point Cliffs, walk over the iconic Storey Bridge, along the riverside in the CBD, then walk through the Botanic Gardens and cross the Goodwill Bridge back to Southbank.

Whichever route you choose, Southbank has playgrounds, restaurants, cafes and huge grassy areas for picnics when you’re done. And for those that can’t manage much of a walk at all, just take an easy stroll through Southbank’s gorgeous arbour, a meandering stroll under the magenta flowers of the massive bougainvillaea.

2. Mt Coot-tha Climb

Of course, you can drive to the top of Mt Coot-tha, but why not park the car at the base and take an easy walk up the mountain? It’s not too steep and the tracks are well-maintained. Even young children can manage the walk up, with a few stairs here and there, but mostly just a gentle graded walk.

At the top, you’ll find not only spectacular views of Brisbane (see if you can spot your house) but also a great cafe. If that won’t get the kids moving, I don’t know what will! Just beware the easy walk down the mountain can be tempting for children who want to belt down the hill. Many a skinned knee was had by over-confident children running downhill on a dirt track! 

3. Daisy Hill Koala Trails

If you need a sweetener to get your little ones moving, how about the promise of koala sightings? You’re guaranteed to spot a koala as you walk through Daisy Hill Koala Centre. There are some koala shows and educational displays, or you can just hit one of the bush trails for a leisurely stroll while looking up to see how many furry critters you can spot. Most trails are less than 2km in length, so perfect for little legs! 

4. Gorge Walk, North Stradbroke Island

You need to catch a ferry over to North Stradbroke Island for this walk but it is well worth the effort. At only 1.2km for the entire loop along the seaside clifftops, it is an easy stroll for even the most reluctant walker, and the rewards are immense. If seeing whales, dolphins, manta rays, turtles and kangaroos isn’t enticing enough, the loop starts and finishes right near the Straddie gelato shop, so you can use that as an enticement to keep walking just a little bit longer. Be aware there are some high cliffs that aren’t fenced on this walk, so you’ll need to keep close to your little tear-aways here. 

5. West End to the Cultural Precinct

This is a good un! We'd recommend parking your car in West End (or even better, catching the 199 or City Glider bus), and visiting Davies Park markets nice and early to start your day. Then you can take an easy stroll along the river which will lead you directly to the Cultural Precinct – we’re talking Queensland Gallery of Modern Art, Sciencentre, Queensland Museum, and the Queensland Art Gallery. There are loads for the whole family to do here – and plenty of great lunch options in the café. But if that isn’t enough, Southbank is another short stroll along the riverside boardwalk. There’s your day super full, and little legs very tired! 

6. Brighton to Shorncliffe

Choose one end to start and then take a delightful stroll along the foreshore. Views stretch out over Bramble Bay and don’t miss a walk along Shorncliffe Pier – where you can spot jellyfish and fish swimming along in the water. The walk is a long one – about an hour each way – so break it up by stopping at Sandgate Fishmonger for lunch, or cut the walk in half and just start in Sandgate and head along to Shorncliffe Pier and back. 

7. Brisbane Botanic Gardens

Brisbane Botanic Gardens offers kids the chance to go for a walk, without even realising they're walking. What a coup! There is so much to see and experience at the Gardens, and kids will love the designated Children's Trail through the exotic rainforest. Pack a picnic and all the essentials, 'cause even though the loop itself is only around 30 minutes, there's so much to engage kids—you might be there a while! 

More Outdoor Adventures

The Best Rockpools for Kids Around Brisbane
The Best Bike Parks and Trails for Kids in Brisbane 
The Best Secret Spots to Take Your Kids in Brisbane 

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