Sunsine Coast Hiking Route: Six Mountains in One Day

Travel used to be simple: photographs in front of famous monuments or tasting the local cuisine. Now we need to be the fastest, walk the longest, or climb the highest for the ultimate bragging rights.

Put your body on the line and go through a guided tour to climb six Sunshine Coast Mountains in only one day. Experientia Sunshine Coast is the only tour company that provides such an adventure. With the guides Melinda Bingley and Blase Grinner taking you from mountain to mountain, this will test all your limits.

Are you ready?

The Tour Guides

Experientia Sunshine Coast — You’ll be guided up the mountains by two extremely experienced hikers, Blase Grinner and Melinda Bingley.

If there were ever a poster child for personal challenges it would be the woman who is following close behind me, Melinda Bingley. When she reached Santiago de Compostela (Spain), 27 days into her solo pilgrimage along the Camino de Santiago she still didn’t feel done and hiked onwards to Muxia – another 118.5 kilometres.

She’s trekked through the Kokoda, scaled Mount Kilimanjaro and hiked to Everest Base Camp. Meanwhile, on her days off she likes to climb Mount Tibrogargan – the hulking ‘gorilla’ of the Glass House Mountains – solo, regularly.

For the past 10 years, Bingley has been helping her personal training clients overcome challenges – their own inner Camino – even if that’s just running 10 minutes on a treadmill without stopping. Now, with her partner, Blase Grinner, they’ve made their favourite outdoor adventures into active escape packages under Experientia.

Stop 1: Wild Horse Mountain

The sunrise is glorious from atop Wild Horse Mountain.

The trek is starting at the smallest of the Glass House Mountains (blessed) with Wild Horse Mountain. The tip of the summit will give you a western view of the Sunshine Coast, with panoramic views of the Pumicestone Passage, as well as Bribie and Moreton Islands. The only way up is via a steep 700-metre paved pathway, which is the easier of routes on this journey.

Height: 123m

Distance (return): 1.4 kilometres

Stop 2: Mount Beerburrum

Mount Beerburrum is almost an identical hike to that of Wild Horse Mountain. The steep walkway winds through rainforest and eucalyptus woodlands. If you’re feeling a bit sluggish there are seats along the way to get a quick rest in. South-Eastern Queensland is the setting for the view and boy, it sure is pretty. But this stop is definitely a calf-burner.

Height: 150m

Distance (return): 1.4 kilometres

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

Stop 3: Mount Ngungun

Now that you’ve gotten the smaller mountains out of the way (phew!) Mount Ngungun (pronounced Noo Noo) is not out here to play. Wind up through the man-made path and you’ll be zipped straight into forestry of floral plant life. Beautiful ferns and Aussie bush will line the walkway to the top. From there you’ll be able to see a close-up view of Mount Tibrogargan, an ancient volcano that dried up 27 million years ago.

Height: 253m

Distance (return): 2.8 kilometres

Stop 4: Mount Cooroora

The highest mountain is here and we’re about the conquer it. Aptly named ‘The King of the Mountain’, this climb involves metal stairs, a chain to hold yourself up (very useful on the descent) and a bush trail. While you’re walking just cast your mind to the reward at the top, uninterrupted views of the Sunshine Coast’s vast hinterland.

Once you’ve reached the top, sit back and enjoy the deliciously pre-prepared snacks and lunch provided. Serving us icy-cold orange segments and latte-flavoured bliss balls for a little well-deserved nibble. Afterwards, we devoured organic falafel wraps and coconut water. This made the experience feel less boot camp and more five-star wellness retreat.

Height: 446m

Distance (return): 2 kilometres

Stop 5: Mount Ninderry

You’re almost there, just two more gruelling hikes to go. Mount Ninderry is tucked away in the inland of Coolum, and along the way, you’ll get to see the Maroochy River and the Pacific Ocean. The track has been recently upgraded so you won’t be free-climbing thankfully.

Generally, this mountain remains a bit forgotten, most of the visiting climbers tend to head straight for Mount Coolum, so this will be a little slice of serenity.

Height: 304m

Distance (return): 2.5 kilometres

Stop 6: Mount Coolum

Mount Coolum Sunshine Coast QLD — The final stop on the adventure, Mount Coolum

Right about now you’ll all feel pretty weary, but determined to push through and finish on a high. It’s quick and dirty, and the reward is an endless vista to the north and south drinking in the Sunshine Coast in its entirety.

Height: 203 metres

Distance (return): 3.2 kilometres

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Final Thoughts

Our group made it through each climb and descent with time left over to rest and refuel. Samantha Lippiatt (Director of Health & Fitness Travel) put it as, “You’ve got this huge goal that maybe once seemed impossible, that not only are you going to have passed, but then you’re going to have a once-in-a-lifetime trip as well."

Whenever I head towards Noosa I give Cooroora a nod; on the beach, I gaze to the top of Coolum and across to Ninderry. And when I’m driving towards Brisbane I give Beerburrum, Wild Horse and Ngungun all a wave. I can’t help but smile and a feeling of achievement washes over me.

Even though I’ve done some of these hikes before, everything has changed. I’m seeing with new eyes and a refreshed mindset. And there ain’t no mountain high enough to keep me from losing this high.

The Details

How to do it

Get up early and bring your emotional A-game. Experientia Sunshine Coast’s Six Mountains in One Day kicks off at 6 AM and includes transport to all summits, qualified and personable guidance and Brisbane, Queensland motivation, and delicious paleo snacks and lunch from local suppliers. The cost is $299 with a maximum of 10 people in the group.

Getting there

Jetstar, Qantas and Virgin Australia fly to Sunshine Coast Airport in Maroochydore from Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide. From Brisbane, it’s a 70-minute drive to Caloundra to meet your pick-up.

Staying there

Rumba Beach Resort puts you right on the waterfront at Caloundra with views over some of your conquests beyond the Pumicestone Passage. To stay among the mountains, sleep in a converted train carriage or church at Glass House Mountains Ecolodge.

Staying in the Sunshine Coast? Head here for our curated guide on everything you need to know.

When the winter chill settles in, an escape to Hamilton Island’s year-round tropical shores is the only acceptable coping mechanism.

As a heliophile with the cold tolerance of a Mediterranean house cat, the arrival of winter tends to spark a particular panic. How will I survive? Must I really start layering? What do you mean, Aperol season is over? But there are far better ways to spend the cooler months than sulking in the depths of your doona.

Enter, Hamilton Island. With its year-round sunshine and permanent on-holiday atmosphere, this Whitsundays favourite promises a veritable slice of summer in winter.

Think salt-stiff hair and the smug pleasure of devouring seafood beside the water while friends back home are defogging their windscreens. Here’s why Hamilton Island should figure into your winter plans.

1. Year-round summer weather

A woman hiking along the Passage Peak trail on Hamilton Island. — Hike under sunny winter skies on Hamilton Island. (Image: Andrew Caitens)

In the crisper months, Hamilton Island offers perfectly mild, sunny weather (17-24°C) that lends itself to morning swims and afternoon spritzes. Better still, you can enjoy the island’s outdoor adventures – from hiking to mountain biking – without the humidity or rain you’ll often find in summertime. With direct flights from most major Australian cities offering ease of access, Hamilton Island is the ideal place to flee the cold.

2. Getting active without the humidity

A buggy parked overlooking Hamilton Island’s golf course, with sweeping views of the sea at Whitsundays in winter. — Zip around Hamilton Island by buggy. (Image: Hamilton Island)

Whether you’re hiking up to Passage Peak or exploring the island by buggy, tropical Queensland humidity is nobody’s friend. The one way to guarantee you will avoid the inevitable stickiness and fluffy hair? Visit during winter. There’s plenty to be enjoyed, from sunrise yoga at The Sundays (exclusive to guests of The Sundays) to playing golf on Dent Island.

3. Hamilton Island Race Week

Yachts racing across the sparkling Whitsundays during Hamilton Island Race Week. — Feel the thrill of Hamilton Island Race Week. (Image: Salty Dingo)

Taking place in August, Hamilton Island Race Week is a destination in its own right that attracts spectators and racers from around the globe. Boating enthusiasts and thrill-seeking holidaymakers flock to the island, which is palpably energetic as the first yachts set off for Dent Passage from Hamilton Island Yacht Club. The annual action-packed week, taking place from 15 to 22 August in 2026, offers an exciting calendar of on- and off-water events – spanning everything from celebrity chef dinners to golfing comps and wine tastings.

4. Best time for snorkelling

A woman snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters of the Great Barrier Reef. — Explore Hamilton Island’s winter waters. (Image: Andrew Caitens)

While the crowds on Hamilton Island may disperse with the cooler weather, the marine life certainly doesn’t. Winter is widely considered one of the best times to snorkel and dive in the Whitsundays.

It’s down to a number of reasons: excellent water visibility, higher chances of seeing whales as they migrate north and – best of all – no nasty stingers. This means no need to wear those notoriously unflattering full-body wetsuits visitors have to wear in warmer months. On top of all this, you’ll find calm seas ideal for sailing and Great Barrier Reef tours.

5. Fewer crowds

People kayaking. — Experience a quieter Hamilton Island on a kayaking adventure. (Image: Hamilton Island)

Winter is often the quietest time to visit Hamilton Island, with the peak season crowds thinned to a relaxed trickle. You can snorkel or dive straight off the reef-laced waters of Catseye Beach, then swap fins for a buggy and zip between One Tree Hill, the marina and sunset cocktails without the usual summer queues. Active days stretch from kayaking, sailing and jet skiing to hopping over to famous Whitehaven Beach to witness those breathtaking white swirls of silica sand. You won’t have to elbow your way to the front of the crowd to get a good snap.

6. Delicious dining

The interiors of Bommie Restaurant, featuring modern coastal design with warm lighting and elegant detailing. — Treat yourself to Bommie Restaurant’s fine dining featuring fresh, seasonal Aussie produce. (Image: Nikki To)

The food on Hamilton Island tastes just as good any time of year, and winter is still perfect weather for sundowners. Start with an iced tea Negroni at harbourside Bommie Deck, before transitioning to Bommie Restaurant for a fine-dining feast centering on seasonal Aussie ingredients. Or perhaps enjoy a more casual poolside evening at Sails Restaurant, where plates of chermoula chicken skewers, baked cauliflower steak and crispy sumac squid come served with ocean views. From family-friendly pub meals to elevated wine tastings, there’s something for everyone.

5. Clear skies for idyllic views

The golden hour across the Whitsundays in winter. — End your day with golden Hamilton Island sunsets over the water. (Image: Hamilton Island)

Never let a cloud rain on the parade of Hamilton Island’s spectacular scenery. Winter brings clearer skies and more stable weather to the Whitsundays, meaning your picture-perfect sunset at One Tree Hill is likely to remain that way. And after putting in the legwork to hike to a scenic lookout, the last thing you want is a vista hidden behind low cloud and haze.

To learn more about travelling to the Whitsundays in winter, visit hamitlonisland.com.au.

Sunshine Coast Hiking Route: Six Mountains in One Day