It’s easy to overlook the trails and walking paths around North Lakes and its neighbouring suburbs, especially if you’ve lived in the area for years. Just beyond the familiar streets, colourful butterflies flit through leafy reserves, birdsong drifts along tranquil waterways and winding paths reveal pockets of fascinating local history. From mangrove boardwalks to lakeside retreats, these walks invite you to slow down and reconnect with nature.
Grab your hat, sunscreen and water bottle and step outside. Whether you’re taking a quiet morning stroll or planning an immersive forest experience, the trails and pathways around North Lakes are full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
The North Lakes Environmental Reserve offers paths beside peaceful waters, perfect for a gentle walk with family, some birdwatching or a dog-friendly outing. Picnic areas and BBQ facilities make it easy to relax and soak up the calm surroundings.
A short drive away, the Cottonwood Walk and Heritage Trail in Deception Bay provides a different experience. This waterfront trail offers sweeping views and interpretive signage that bring the area’s rich history to life. The easygoing shared walk and cycle path is ideal for a family outing or a quiet solo stroll.
Riverside Rambles and Mangrove Boardwalks: Your Local Guide to Moreton Bay Trails
For riverside scenery, Petrie offers a gentle, family-friendly trail linking Sweeney Reserve and Mungarra Reserve beside the North Pine River. This flat track connects parks, fitness stations and picnic areas, making it perfect for a casual ride or stroll. Keep your eyes peeled and you may even spot koalas resting in the eucalypts above.
John Oxley Reserve is another local highlight that many may have missed. The Carole Green Walkway winds through towering eucalyptus trees and descends into serene mangroves with a boardwalk. Butterflies and dragonflies drift among the plants, and the calls of laughing kookaburras fill the air, setting the scene for a magical family walk. The return walk includes a bit of an incline, but it’s not too strenuous. Afterwards, let the kids enjoy the playground while you fire up the shaded BBQs for a relaxed finish.
There are so many well-maintained cycle tracks and pathways to explore across Moreton Bay, whatever your fitness level. Many are wheelchair and buggy-friendly too.
Whether it’s a short coastal stroll, a riverside ramble or a forest retreat, the trails around North Lakes make it easy to get outside, stay active and fall in love with the local landscape.
- North Lakes Environmental Reserve: Lacebark Street, North Lakes
- Cottonwood Walk and Heritage Trail: Find maps and information about local heritage trails at moretonbay.qld.gov.au/Services/Arts-Culture-Heritage/Local-History-And-Heritage/Heritage-Trails
- Sweeney and Mungarra Reserve: Start at Sweeney Reserve, Dayboro Road, or Mungarra Reserve, Carmody Court, Petrie
- John Oxley Reserve: Ogg Road, Murrumba Downs
Read more stories from The North Lakes Guide print magazine here:
- In the North Lakes Loop: Updates from the Community
- Eco Eve: Living a More Environmentally Friendly Life!
- What’s Hot Around Town
- Podcast Review: Pop Culture Parenting
- The French Film Festival Brisbane
- Queenfish Scomberoides commersonnianus
- Organic Gardening in March
- Free, Cheap and Local!
- Happitat Brings High-Altitude Thrills to Gold Coast Hinterland
- A Focal Point of Community Spirit
- Women Take the Wheel in Hands-On Workshop
- Harmony Week Brings Cultures Together Through Creativity
- The Lakes College Open Day and Picnic in the Park
- Mind, Body, Soul Expo Celebrates 10 Years
- Pine Rivers VIEW Club Turning 30
- Autumn Planting Secrets for Home Gardeners
- Local Teen’s Cheerleading Dreams Take Flight
- The Nest: Weaving Community, Craft and Sustainability
- Paddle, Picnic and Pause at Lake Kurwongbah
- Nature Right Up Your Street with Biodiverse Verge Gardens
