Forget artificial climbing walls, this is what rock climbing and abseiling is all about—textured rock beneath your grip, sun-warmed muscles straining for the next hold and clean air filling your lungs as you plan your route onwards and upwards, or enjoy the thrilling sensation of descent.

Where to climb

Set your heart racing as you abseil down the rhyolite bluffs of Point Glorious in Mapleton National Park or on the bluffs at Brooyar State Forest.

Make the serious climb to the peak of Mount Tinbeerwah in Tewantin National Park with a spectacular 360 degree outlook at the top!

Incredible rhyolite columns and peaks at Frog Buttress on Mount French in Moogerah Peaks National Park are also irresistible for serious climbers.

Parks and forests with rock climbing or abseiling

Climb with care

Ensure you choose a climbing or abseiling route matched to your ability—don’t ever take risks—and please climb respectfully, leaving each area as clean and beautiful as you found it.

Important safety tips

Before you go:

• Tell a responsible person where and when you will climb or abseil.
• Find a climbing or abseiling partner.
• Check the weather forecast.
• Plan to abseil or rock climb in daylight hours only.
• Clean your equipment, footwear and clothing of any dirt or plant material from other sites.

When rock climbing or abseiling:

• Check the site for hazards and suitability for your experience and skill level.
• Wear a helmet, harness and appropriate footwear and clothing.
• Use ropes and protective equipment designed for climbing and abseiling.
• Do not interfere with fixed equipment on the cliff or anchor to trees.
• Do not install your own anchor points—this is an offence.
• Carry emergency communication equipment and a first-aid kit.
• Minimise vegetation disturbance to protect the area from erosion.

Heights without the gear

Queensland’s best views are up high, waiting for you to reach them. Many summits in our parks and forests can be 'bagged' without the need for specialist equipment or ropes. You just have to be willing to keep hiking along the track until you reach the top!

Head off on a strenuous hike along the tracks to the peaks of Mount Coolum, Glass House Mountains, Girraween, or Walshs Pyramid in Wooroonooran National Park. A reasonable amount of fitness is all that’s required to enjoy these routes.

More experienced hikers and navigators should not miss Mount Barney and the ancient, volcanic peaks of mounts Greville, Moon and Edwards in Moogerah Peaks where the more challenging tracks and soaring views are well worth the effort.

Walk with care

Before setting out, choose your park and track carefully. Pick a walk that suits your time and fitness level and check weather conditions.

Wherever and whenever you’re walking remember to look after yourself and the environment and walk with care.