Mount Coot-Tha Summit Lookout (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Mount Coot-Tha Summit Lookout?
What makes it 89% Solo-Friendly: Solo visitors can hike the 1.9-km trail, photograph sunrise or night lights, and linger 24 h without fees. Public transport and ample safety railings make an easy independent outing.
Positives:
- Free Entry: Access to the lookout and picnic areas is free of charge.
- Easy Parking: Car park is adjacent to the lookout with ramp and flat paths.
Challenges:
- Limited Shade: The deck offers little cover; bring sun protection and water.
- Bus Frequency: Bus services run hourly; check the timetable to avoid long waits.
What is Mount Coot-Tha Summit Lookout?
- A 226-metre-high observation platform at the summit of Mount Coot-Tha in Brisbane’s western suburbs
- A council-maintained lookout structure providing unobstructed 360° panoramas of the city skyline, Brisbane River and Moreton Bay
- A landscaped summit precinct within the Mount Coot-Tha Reserve featuring access roads, parking and facilities integrated into subtropical eucalypt woodland
What is so special about Mount Coot-Tha Summit Lookout for solo trip?
- Free 360° views of Brisbane and Moreton Bay
- Short Summit Track hike ideal for solo fitness and adventure
- On-site café serving coffee with a panoramic backdrop
- Golden-hour and stargazing photo opportunities
- Nearby Planetarium show to extend your visit
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows time to hike the Summit Track, take in views, and relax with a coffee.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Mount Coot-Tha Summit Lookout
Summit Track Hike:
Walk the 1.9 km trail from JC Slaughter Falls picnic area to the lookout.
Tip: Start early to avoid heat; wear sturdy footwear and carry water.
Sunrise and Sunset Photography:
Capture the city skyline and Moreton Bay in golden light from the 360° deck.
Tip: Arrive 15 min before golden hour; bring a tripod or stabilize your phone.
Explore Botanic Gardens:
Follow paved paths through themed gardens below the summit.
Tip: Enter via the Visitor Centre and pick up a map to hit highlights in 45 min.
Coffee at The Summit Café:
Enjoy fresh local coffee and snacks with panoramic views.
Tip: Order inside for deck seating; check opening hours (6 am–9 pm weekdays).
Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium:
Attend the Sky Dome show under a 12.5 m dome to learn about the night sky.
Tip: Book the AUD 17.50 ticket online; arrive 10 min early to pick good seats.
When is the best time to visit Mount Coot-Tha Summit Lookout (Brisbane, Australia)?
In summer, visit before 9 am or after 5 pm to avoid heat and storms. In winter, bring a jacket for chilly dawns. Check telescope-night dates online.
Explore These Activities
Reviews of Mount Coot-Tha Summit Lookout (Brisbane)
Cyphren Khan
Great spot for City Views of Brisbane. Plenty of open space at the top for people to mill around. Three levels to look out over Brisbane. There's a cafe, ice cream standd and restaurant for people to take advantage of. Parking when you first enter looks a little tight, but there's more parking round the edge and at the back.
DEEPU VARGHESE
This place has plenty of carparks and a restaurant closer. Good place to view and relax. Highly recommended to use binoculars. Feels like sitting in an aircraft and flying too close to a metropolitan city. I couldn't identify any places from here as I visited during the night. But I enjoyed the place. Wouldn't know this is closer to Indooroopilly.
Ning Fan
NO TICKET REQUIRED Splendid place where people illustrate the city. The discourse power of public to Brisbane unfolds beneath the sunset. I walked along the trail to the top, nice experience. Definitely recommend if you’re visiting/ plan to visit Brisbane
sathiyanathan arunachalam
It was a wonderful outing option from Brisbane. There is a botanical garden and a planetarium at the bottom of the hill. This lookout is so beautiful both when it’s raining and it’s not. We have limited car parking close to the lookout but have few outside in around 200 meters. Overall a must visit if you visiting Brisbane.
S KC
A short hike from the Brisbane CBD Offers a distant view of the city picturesque scenery toilets and ample parking spots A cafe, right near the viewing spot Can go for a scenic drive from here to get a view of the surrounding bush and natural bushland
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip bus from Brisbane CBD | AUD 7 |
| Coffee at The Summit Café | AUD 6 |
| Sky Dome show at Planetarium | AUD 17.5 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 30.5 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Mount Coot-Tha Summit Lookout
- Weekday Visits: Go on weekdays for quieter trails and easier parking.
- Combine with Gardens: Walk through the Botanic Gardens on the return for extra scenery.
Map of Mount Coot-Tha Summit Lookout
Address: 1012 Sir Samuel Griffith Dr, Mount Coot-Tha QLD 4066, Australia
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Mount Coot-Tha Summit Lookout (Brisbane)?
About Mount Coot-Tha Summit Lookout
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Phone Number
+61 7 3403 888810 BEST nearby Activities
Explore Popular Things to Do
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities