The Maroochy River Trail is a regional recreation trail for non-motorised water craft (e.g. canoes, kayaks) which was opened by the minister for the former Department of Infrastructure and Planning on 14 August 2010.

The trail is about 28 kilometres long but includes several shorter sections. It starts on the North Maroochy River near Yandina just east of the Bruce Highway, turns briefly into the South Maroochy River, then heads downstream and eastwards through the varied natural and agricultural landscapes of the Ninderry/Dunethin Rock district before passing Coolum Creek. It then turns south past Marcoola, Bli Bli and Pacific Paradise and finally east into the Maroochydore Reach.

There is a major access pontoon at Lake Dunethin which provides disabled access, car parking and other facilities. Lake Dunethin is an off-stream lake and is perfect for novice paddlers to get used to paddling before heading out on to the river. There are a number of other access points along the trail, so trail users can choose what sections they want to paddle.

View a map of the Maroochy River Trail ( 1.97 MB)

Trail benefits

The trail provides a quiet way of following the river from the hinterland to the coast, which was the way people and goods moved through this landscape before the modern road system was constructed.

The trail will deliver recreation, social and health benefits to its users. It provides opportunities for families, tourists, outdoor education groups and non-motorised water craft users to safely experience one of South East Queensland’s most scenic waterways. Like other regional recreation trails, the Maroochy River Trail will also provide opportunities for local businesses such as bed and breakfasts, tour guides, equipment hire and camping suppliers.

Background

The Maroochy River Trail is an initiative of the SEQ Regional Recreation Trails Program, funded by the Queensland Government and delivered through a partnership between the department and the Sunshine Coast Council. The department has overseen the planning, design and construction of the Maroochy River Trail; however, the council is now the ‘owner’ and manager of the trail.

The trail is part of the state government’s investment in outdoor recreation and protection of our environment in South East Queensland to manage the impacts of growth. The implementation of the trail demonstrates how the state government through Growth Management Queensland is protecting more land for public recreation and is delivering sustainable outcomes for Queenslanders.

Further information

For further information visit the Maroochy River Trail website.