Mount Coolum National Park is located on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland. The most common way to access it is by car, with a dedicated carpark available. It's also listed as a great day trip from Brisbane. If you're coming from nearby Coolum Beach, it's a short drive or a longer walk.

Yes, there is a dedicated carpark at the base of Mount Coolum. However, this can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Roadside parking is also an option if the main carpark is full.

While public transport directly to the trailhead is limited, you can reach the general Coolum Beach area via bus and then potentially walk or arrange a local taxi/rideshare to the park entrance. It's more convenient with a car.

It's challenging. While buses serve Coolum Beach, getting directly to the park entrance without a car requires a significant walk or local transport arrangements. A car is highly recommended for ease of access.

From the Bruce Highway, take the exit for Sunshine Coast Motorway and follow signs towards Coolum Beach. Turn onto David Low Way and then onto Mount Coolum Drive, which leads to the park entrance and carpark.

No, entry to Mount Coolum National Park and its walking trails is free. You do not need to purchase any tickets to access the park or hike to the summit.

Mount Coolum National Park is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no specific opening or closing times posted, but it's advisable to visit during daylight for safety and visibility.

There is no entry fee for Mount Coolum National Park. Access to the walking track and the summit is completely free for all visitors.

While the park isn't officially closed at night, it is strongly advised to only visit during daylight hours. Hiking in the dark on a rocky, steep trail can be dangerous.

No, there are no booking requirements for visiting Mount Coolum National Park. It's a public park, and you can visit anytime during daylight hours without prior reservation.

The hike to the summit and back is approximately 2km and typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on your fitness level and how often you stop for photos or rest. Some find it a good place to train on stairs.

The hike is considered moderately difficult due to the steep, rocky staircase that makes up most of the ascent. It's manageable for most ages if taken slowly, but can be challenging for those unaccustomed to inclines.

The trail is primarily a well-defined, rocky path with numerous steps leading to the summit. It's a consistent uphill climb for most of the way.

There are no toilet facilities directly at the Mount Coolum trailhead. You'll need to use facilities in nearby Coolum Beach before or after your hike.

Yes, many families with primary school-aged children complete the hike. It's important to supervise children closely and ensure they have water and take breaks as needed.

The summit offers the most spectacular 360-degree views, perfect for panoramic shots of the coastline and hinterland. Even halfway up, you get great ocean views. Look for interesting rock formations and native flora for close-up shots.

Early morning for sunrise and late afternoon for sunset provide the best light for photography, creating a golden glow over the landscape. Midday can be harsh, but the views are still impressive.

Drone usage in national parks is subject to strict regulations. It's essential to check the latest Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service guidelines regarding drone operation in Mount Coolum National Park before flying.

Keep an eye out for native birds, colourful butterflies, and reptiles like goannas. Patience and a good zoom lens can help capture these moments.

Yes, the trail itself offers interesting textures with its rocky steps and surrounding vegetation. The views open up progressively, providing numerous opportunities for great shots throughout the ascent.