Looking for Mt Nebo walks through rainforest suitable for all levels of fitness? If so, the 4km one-way Thylogale Walking Track accessible from Jollys Lookout is a great choice and under 60 minutes from Brisbane CBD!
The fairly level walk passes through rainforest and crosses a 4WD dirt road before continuing on to end at Boombana Picnic Area, not far from Cafe in the Mountains (previously known as 'Café Boombana').
You can get to the cafe by turning onto the Pitta Circuit which branches off the Thylogale Track. Just walk a few hundred metres along Pitta Circuit and then turn onto a short track which diverts up to the café.
Not long after you begin the Thylogale Walking Track from the Jolly’s Lookout entry point you will come across the 1.5km Egernia Circuit Track.
Egernia Circuit branches off the 4km Thylogale Track to the left. The circuit will take you down, deeper into the eucalypt forest before looping back to the road.
If heading-off for an early morning walk keep an ear out for birdcalls.
This easy and pleasant stroll through dense rainforest and eucalypt forest iswell-maintained, well-shaded by towering trees and fairly flat throughout.
The gentle walk winds around the side of the mountain to end at Boombana Picnic Area.
When beginning from the Jollys Lookout end, you will soon be rewarded with a few incredible views which stretch all the way out to the coastline.
If walking at a leisurely pace, it should take you about 2 hours to complete the return trip, for an 8km hike in total.
Jollys Lookout is one of Brisbane’s better known picnic and BBQ spots sporting city and bay views.
This wheelchair accessible lookout area offers visitors numerous BBQs, undercover and out in the open picnic tables, as well as a well-maintained toilet block featuring a baby change room.
In good weather a bite to eat at one of the tables overlooking the mountain ridge is simply a wonderful way to spend part of a lazy afternoon.
From Ashgrove: Follow Mount Nebo Road up the mountain to the Jollys Lookout turn-off.
From Samford: Follow Mount Glorious Road up the T intersection and turn left onto Mount Nebo Road. Simply follow Mount Nebo Road’s twists and turns as it winds its way towards Ashgrove. Turn right at the Jollys Lookout sign which you’ll spy about 5 minutes after passing Café in the Mountains (on your right).
Parking and Entry Point: The closest carpark to where the hiking trail begins is just off Mount Nebo Road. Alternatively, you can park up in the larger Jollys Lookout carpark and walk down to the hiking trail’s staring point (about 30 metres from the carpark).
This parking area and entry point is recommended for those keen to finish off their Mt Nebo walks with a picnic or BBQ by at the lookout.
Alternative Parking and Entry Point: If you’re eager to finish or begin your hike with a picnic, takeaway coffee, or a sit-down brekky or lunch, then start from the opposite end and park at the Boombana Picnic Area, or nearby out front of Café in the Mountains.
Be advised, if you do intend to park at the cafe on the weekend you may deprive the business of paying customers as the carpark is small and fills up fast of a weekend morning, so please be considerate and check with the staff if it is okay to park there. A bit of tit-for-tat – agreeing to purchase a meal and drink before or after your walk would only be good manners. A bit of courteousness and consideration can work wonders.
From the bar serving cold brews to the hotel restaurant with delicious eats, the Samford Hotel in Moreton Bay Region is a favourite pub near Brisbane for locals and tourists alike.
Whether travelling for business or pleasure, Mercure Clear Mountain Lodge set amidst natural surrounds is your ideal north Brisbane accommodation retreat from the city, just 40 minutes north of Brisbane CBD.
This pet-friendly café opposite John Scott Park is quickly establishing itself as a popular meeting place in the Moreton Bay Region. The Long Yard Larder Samford café’s friendly customer service and warm wood-panelled surrounds, pared back décor and minimalist vibes make for a relaxed family-friendly atmosphere.
Hosted by St Paul’s Anglican Church this 50-stall market is a whimsical, local institution. With a mountain range backdrop, the enticing smell of fresh baking and the charm of pretty church grounds, Samford Valley is an idyllic Saturday morning outing.
If you’re looking for things to do in Samford and surrounding areas then visit Samford Visitor Information Centre.