wellness
The hidden nature walks locals love but tourists miss
Gold Coast residents head to overlooked hinterland tracks for steady exercise and quiet recovery time.
How we reported this
Locals on the Gold Coast have increased their use of unmarked tracks in the hinterland since early 2026, choosing these routes over the busy paths near Surfers Paradise.
Wellness routines tied to outdoor movement gained attention after recent network outages disrupted gym access and indoor classes across the region. People turned to free trails to maintain daily steps without relying on apps or facilities. The shift aligns with broader interest in low-cost fitness that avoids tourist zones such as Kurrawa Beach volleyball courts.
Tracks near Beechmont and Oxenford
One favoured route starts at the end of Beechmont Road and follows an old fire trail into Lamington National Park fringes. Walkers pass through eucalypt stands and reach a small lookout above the Coomera Valley within 45 minutes. Another option sits in Oxenford, where a council-maintained path runs beside the Coomera River from the end of Tamborine Oxenford Road. This track links to the edges of Nerang National Park and stays shaded for most of its 6-kilometre length.
Gold Coast City Council data from the 2025 financial year showed 268,400 recorded visits to hinterland trails, a rise of 15 per cent from the prior year. Parking at the Beechmont trailhead costs nothing, while the Oxenford site charges $4 for all-day use on weekdays. Both locations connect to Surf Life Saving club training areas further south, letting runners combine river walks with sand sessions at Broadbeach when tides allow.
Practical steps for first visits
Check the council website for any temporary closures before heading out, as recent rain can affect sections near the river. Carry water and wear sturdy shoes, since phone reception drops quickly once walkers leave the main roads. Those new to the routes can join the monthly free guided walks run by the Gold Coast Hinterland Bushwalking Club, which meets at 7am on the first Saturday of each month at the Beechmont starting point. Always speak with a local GP before starting any new exercise program.