EJ Foote Sanctuary Loop

Rainforest shade, trickling creeks and a sealed loop you can push a pram around make the EJ Foote Sanctuary one of the cooler on-lead walks in Buderim. Its full name is the Eric Joseph Foote War Memorial Sanctuary, and the main entrance is on Park Lane.

Lead rules

Dogs are welcome but must stay on lead at all times. Sunshine Coast Council looks after the reserve together with the volunteer Foote Sanctuary Association.

Choosing a track

The easy option is the Botanic Track, a sealed 608 metre loop suited to prams and wheelchairs, with labelled native trees along the way. For more of a workout, the Cascade Circuit, Eucalyptus Track and Boundary Track are earthen paths rated moderate to difficult, with timber stairs and boardwalk sections.

Expect plenty of birdlife, and small cascades where the creeks run.

Before you go

Park off Park Lane, where maps of the sanctuary are posted. Toilets, picnic shelters, barbecues and a playground sit near the main entrance, but there is no dog water on the inner trails, so carry your own.

Make a day of it

Coffee afterwards is easy in Buderim, with John Kyle Espresso and Espressly Coffee Co both close by.

When to go

The dense canopy keeps the tracks shaded, so this is a good pick on a hot Sunshine Coast day. Older dogs and short legs will be happiest on the sealed Botanic Track.