Mount Ninderry walking track

Mount Ninderry Summit Walk is a short, steep climb to two lookout platforms on the Sunshine Coast hinterland fringe near Yandina, and it is one of the few summit walks in the region where dogs are welcome on lead. The payoff is a full panorama taking in the coastline, Mount Coolum and the Maroochy River valley from two viewing decks.

The walk

An up-and-back track of roughly 30 minutes to an hour return, graded easy to moderate, climbing about 150 metres to the summit through forest before the rocky steps near the top. It is not a loop, so whatever you climb you also descend. Signage at the start marks the fork to the east and west lookouts, and the east platform carries the better coastal view.

Leash status

Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times. Sunshine Coast Council updated its pet and dog rules across environmental areas from 3 July 2026, so check the council website or the current trailhead signage before you go. Clean up after your dog immediately, and keep them close on the narrow sections where you pass other walkers.

Max: The rocky steps near the top are uneven and shade is patchy. Skip midday in the warm months, and if you are chasing the sunset view, pack a torch for the descent.

Water and hazards

No taps and no toilets on site, so carry water for both of you. Heat and exposure are the main concerns: the climb holds limited shade and the exposed sections heat up early. Take the rocky summit steps slowly in both directions, especially with short-legged dogs.

Getting there and parking

The trailhead sits off Ninderry Road, east of Yandina, with a small free gravel car park at the base. It fills early on weekend mornings, so arrive before 9am if you can. There is no practical public transport option, so this one needs a car.

Pair it with

The Tea Tree Park Dog Park at Yandina gives the dog an off-lead run to balance all that on-lead climbing, and At Odds Cafe in town covers breakfast before or coffee after. For a flat, off-lead counterpoint to the summit, the Stumers Creek Dog Offleash Area at Coolum is a short drive east.

Early morning is the best window: cooler, calmer and clearer for the view. More hinterland walks are on the Queensland dog trails guide and the Ninderry destination page.