Mount Gravatt Summit Track

Mount Gravatt Summit Track climbs through Toohey Forest bushland to the lookout at the top, one of the better on-lead dog walks on Brisbane's southside if you do not mind earning the view. It is a steady 2.3 km climb with city and Glasshouse Mountains views as the payoff.

The walk

The track runs 2.3 km with a steady incline, some sections of steps and rocky ground underfoot. AllTrails grades it moderate and most walkers take 30 to 60 minutes depending on pace and photo stops at the top. Walk it there and back from either end, or link it with the Federation Track for a longer outing through the reserve.

Leash status

Dogs are welcome but must stay on a lead at all times, a rule set by Brisbane City Council across the Mount Gravatt Outlook Reserve and Toohey Forest. There are no off-lead areas inside the reserve, and you and your dog should stay on the marked tracks. Koalas live in this pocket of forest and are most active in spring, which is exactly why the leash rule is enforced rather than suggested.

Max: keep the lead short through the forested sections, especially in spring. Koalas move slowly and quietly and a dog can be right under one before either of you notices.

Water

No water is documented along the track itself, so carry your own for both of you, particularly at midday. The steps and rocky patches are hard on paws and older joints, so take it slowly with dogs that are not used to uneven ground, and check for ticks afterwards in the warmer months.

Getting there

Two free access points: the Gertrude Petty Place picnic area at the base, and the Mount Gravatt Outlook car park at the summit, where there is also a cafe for a post-walk coffee. The reserve is open around the clock, though the summit car park gates generally close in the evening, so plan to finish before then. Buses run along nearby Logan Road but leave a walk to the base, so driving is easier.

More walks nearby

The Toohey Forest tracks at Tarragindi continue the same bushland south, and the fenced Abbeville Street dog park gives an off-lead run afterwards. The Mount Gravatt Hotel welcomes dogs in its outdoor areas for lunch.

When to go

Early morning is the best window: cooler, quieter and easier on dogs in summer. The lookout gets busy on weekend afternoons, and the view is best in clear morning light anyway.

More Brisbane bushwalks are on the Queensland dog walks page, with other options near the suburb in the Mount Gravatt guide.