Grey Gum Picnic Area

Grey Gum Picnic Area is a beautiful picnic spot on the eastern side of the main ridge of Mt Coot-Tha, with access into the carpark via Sir Samuel Griffith Drive, close to Channel Nine studios.

There are a number of picnic tables dotted around the gently sloping, grassy area – some in the shade of the majestic eucalypts and some that are undercover, with the largest roofed structure housing 5 tables – perfect if you’re having a large family or group get-together.

Barbecues are electric, so no need to be worrying over wood stocks or kindling collecting, but you will need to bring your own cleaning items and BBQ equipment.

Or, you may just prefer to put down the picnic blanket and enjoy a good, old-fashioned picnic on the grass. There’s certainly plenty of room for the kids to run around and explore the great outdoors in the fresh air.

If a short stroll in the bush is what you’re after, there is a walking track that will take you to the Eugenia Circuit – a pleasant and manageable loop walk that is fully sealed.

If you’re after a good workout, from here, you can also head down to Simpsons Falls (2.9k return trip) and the Simpsons Falls Picnic Area (4.2km return trip). This dirt track is not sealed, with some quite rocky stretches, but takes you through some stunning Australian bushland.

Depending on the time of year you visit, there are an abundance of wildflowers to spot after rain in the warmer months. When it comes to fauna, commonly seen birdlife includes parrots, cockatoos, owls and tawny frogmouths, and the trees are also home to possums, gliders and microbats.

Other than guide dogs, pets are not allowed in this forest area.

Conveniently, there are toilet facilities at this picnic ground, and they are wheel-chair-friendly.

The carpark is open between 6am and 7pm daily, so make sure you calculate any walks with plenty of time to spare. Signage displays a number to call for after-hours vehicle release, but fees do apply.

If you're looking for more ideas on where to picnic in Brisbane, check out our guide to Brisbane's best picnic spots here.

By Danella Perrins