This walk wanders through the Noosa National Park bushland with panoramic views of the coastline and hinterland views of Lake Weyba, Mt Ninderry and Mt Cooroy. The diverse heaths are interesting at any time but exhibit a kaleidoscope of colour in late winter and spring. This is a great spot for birdwatching, so bring your binoculars. This 6 km return walk starts and ends at Calliandra Grove, North Peregian Beach.
From Calliandra Grove proceed through the gate to a wide sandy track. This will take you through a Banksia Forest. Keep on the main track and ignore any side-tracks. Cross a small stream, then out onto more open wallum. Stay on this track for 40 minutes on a gentle slope until a triangular section is reached. Turn right, then very shortly afterwards take the left hand of a Y junction. The track narrows here and heads up to the highest point of the walk.
After enjoying the views (possibly whales during the winter months) take care on the next section downhill to reach a broad sandy track. Turn right and follow this track. Great views of Lake Weyba on this section and occasionally kangaroos at dusk. Keep straight ahead through the Y junction to return to the start point. To extend the walk by 2 km return, turn right onto a side track just before the creek crossing. At the end of this trail is a vehicle turning area with a small track off to the left which leads down to the lake shore. Return by the same route.
Whilst enjoying the scenery, it is worth considering how this parcel of land was saved from development.
Noosa Parks Association had been working on a vision to extend Noosa National Park from Sunshine Beach Road to Coolum since the 1980s. This included the Crown land known as the Marcus High Dunes that was to be developed for housing by TM Burke.
The vision of conserving a near continuous belt of natural coastal communities from Noosa Heads to Coolum was only realised as recently as 2001.
Note: This walk is not signposted, being on fire management tracks rather than designated walking trails.
Contributed by Di Shun Wah
Like more local walking information? Check out Noosa Parks Association walkers.
