Last weekend I had my first Saturday off in four months. It was a typical Brisbane winter's day with crystal clear blue skies and crisp, clean air. I couldn't think of anything better to do than escape to what I call 'my bush in the city'. Okay so where is this place of perfection?
Well, I slipped my walking shoes on, put the dog in the car and drove for twenty minutes from the city centre. We stepped out of the car to the sweet sound of numerous bird calls, softly rustling trees and the smell of an Aussie barbecue in action. I followed the thin gravel path from the car park down to an open grassy field scattered with public barbecues. In the distance was a scene of green and that was where I was heading. A sign informed me that I could walk 650m to a waterfall and then come back or I could choose to do the 2.8km loop track. Seeing as I had the whole day off, I chose the loop.
This track took me up small hills and then down again, over ridges and through valleys. The terrain changed many times from rough, rocky gravel to soft, muddy clay, from semi-rainforest to scraggy bush. A couple of times I had to cross small mountain streams, using the protruding rocks to make my way to the other side. As I walked butterflies fluttered all around me and the birds continued to sing.
On my way back I could hear the trickling sound of the waterfall, getting closer as I approached it. I walked out on top of it and chose the most comfortable looking rock to perch on. There really isn't anything more relaxing than sitting solo, amid the forest, soaking up the sounds and smells of nature. It truly is a treat for the senses.
So, if you have a day off at any time and are seeking a break from the rush of the city without the hassle of getting there, then Mt. Coot-tha is the place to go. There is a huge range of walking and even cycling tracks at different points along Mt. Coot-tha Road. I guarantee there is a track suited to everyone. Enjoy.
