Hoop Pine Picnic Area

Hoop Pine Picnic Area is an expansive outdoor area that lies between well-known JC Slaughter Falls Picnic Area and the lesser known Silky Oak Picnic Area, all of which can be found along the tree-lined Sir Samuel Griffith Drive at the base of Mt Coot-Tha.

This picnic grounds, which boasts a beautiful stand of mature Hoop Pines (Araucaria cunninghamii) amongst the many shady trees that border the clearing, provides not only a huge area of grass to laze and picnic on, but also a number of covered picnic tables and electric gas barbeques that overlook the grassy incline.

Like both the neighbouring picnic areas above, the Discovery Trail – a popular walking path for all ages – meanders through the area, and is a pedestrian conduit that links Simpson Falls, all the way to JC Slaughter Falls, with two bridge crossings over East Ithaca Creek.

Tucked away under the gum trees and on the top edge of the rocky creek bed that snakes past, you’ll discover some older-style tables that date back to the early days of the area being created for public enjoyment. There are also a number of cement tables near the carpark that enjoy great shade from the trees at different times of the day.

There is plenty of off-street car parking and parking available along the road on the opposite side to the entrance.

Nice to know – There are public toilet facilities at this picnic area that are all-abilities accessible.

By Danella Perrins