Trail Running in Mount Coot-tha
Mount Coot-tha Forest sits just 7 km from Brisbane's CBD and contains over 40 km of dedicated mountain bike and trail running tracks on Turrbal and Jagera Country. The terrain is accessible and non-threatening by trail running standards, but the network is complex enough to keep locals entertained for years. Early morning weekday runs are quiet and serene, with lorikeets and kookaburras providing the soundtrack. The forest is a favourite local fitness destination and hosts several well-attended trail races throughout the year.
Region
Brisbane, QLD
Difficulty
Easy to Moderate
Best Seasons
Autumn, Winter, Spring
Trails
3 featured
Terrain
Red dirt singletrack through open eucalypt forest, with some rocky sections and short sharp climbs. Trails are generally well-maintained and clearly marked with colour-coded signage.
Best Trails
JC Slaughter Falls Circuit
ModerateA compact loop with a good climb and views over the western suburbs.
Red dirt singletrack
Summit Trail
ModerateRuns to the Mount Coot-tha summit lookout with views over Brisbane and Moreton Bay.
Rocky and dirt singletrack
Forest Loop Long Circuit
ModerateThe best long-run option linking most of the major trail zones in the forest.
Mixed singletrack and fire trail
Gear Recommendations
Trail shoes recommended for the red clay, which becomes slippery after rain
Carry water as there are no water points inside the forest trails
A headlamp for pre-dawn runs as the canopy blocks early light
The forest is shared with mountain bikers, be alert on blind corners
Safety Tips
Yield to mountain bikers on all shared trails as per the signage
The network is complex, download the trail map from Brisbane City Council before exploring
Snakes are active in warm months, watch for them on sunny sections of track
Car break-ins have been reported at some car parks, do not leave valuables in your vehicle
Getting There
Multiple car parks on Sir Samuel Griffith Drive and Mount Coot-tha Road. The main trailheads are at JC Slaughter Falls (end of Mt Coot-tha Rd) and the botanic gardens car park. No entry fees.
Post-Run Refuel
The Summit Restaurant and Cafe at the top of Mount Coot-tha is a popular post-run spot with views over Brisbane. The Alchemist Coffee in Bardon is a favourite local cafe for the trail community.
Local Trail Events
Coot-tha Classic
14K and 7KA popular local trail race entirely within the Mount Coot-tha forest network, suitable for runners of all experience levels.
AprilTurn Your Trail Runs Into Territory
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MoteraFrequently Asked Questions
How much trail is there at Mount Coot-tha?
Over 40 km of marked singletrack and fire trails winding through the forest, shared with mountain bikers.
Is Mount Coot-tha suitable for beginner trail runners?
Yes. Most trails are well-maintained red dirt singletrack with no extreme terrain. The JC Slaughter Falls Circuit is a good starting point.
Are there mountain bikers on the Mount Coot-tha trails?
Yes. The forest is a major mountain biking destination. Runners share the trails with bikes and should follow yield signs, especially on descents.
What is the best parking spot for trail running at Mount Coot-tha?
The JC Slaughter Falls car park at the end of Mount Coot-tha Road gives the best direct access to the trail network.
Are there any races at Mount Coot-tha?
Yes. The Coot-tha Classic in April is the most popular local race, offering 7 km and 14 km options entirely within the forest.
