Emu Mountain Summit Walk

Emu Mountain Summit Walk is a short but worthwhile climb through coastal heath in the Emu Mountain section of Noosa National Park, near Coolum Beach on the Sunshine Coast. The 1.1-kilometre return track follows the same route in and out, with about 45 minutes to an hour suggested for the walk. It leads to a constructed lookout at the summit, where the coastal outlook stretches from Noosa to Maroochydore.

The walk has a strong natural and geological character. Emu Mountain, also known as Mount Peregian, is a rocky volcanic remnant formed from rhyolite, left behind from a much larger volcanic mass. Along the track, walkers pass vivid wildflowers and endangered Mt. Emu she-oaks before reaching the higher ground. On clear days, the Glass House Mountains may be visible to the south-west and Mount Tuchekoi to the north-west. From June to November, there is also a chance of seeing humpback whales moving through the coastal waters.

This is a Grade 4 walking track, so it is best suited to people comfortable with a short hill climb rather than those looking for a flat, easy stroll. The summit views make it a good option for walkers, visitors wanting a compact national park experience, and anyone interested in the Sunshine Coast’s volcanic landscape. It can be approached as a solo walk or enjoyed with company, with the lookout providing a natural pause before returning along the same path. There are no wheelchair-accessible facilities on the walk.

Access is via Havana Road East in Coolum Beach, around 3.5 kilometres north of the township, or 2.5 kilometres south of Peregian Beach along David Low Way. Sealed roads provide access for conventional two-wheel-drive vehicles, although parking is limited, particularly during busy periods. Visitors can also walk, cycle on council shared pathways outside the park, or use public transport; the nearest described bus access is via David Low Way near Coolum Beach State High School, followed by a walk down Havana Road East. The walk is open 24 hours, but park alerts should be checked before setting out for current access and track conditions.