Wild Horse Mountain Lookout - Image: Elaine de Wet
Okay, this was probably not my brightest idea at 3.00pm in the afternoon (and after having had three consecutive leg gym sessions), but it is
only 700 metres to the top. Hubby and I decided, that after having driven past this lookout umpteen times, it was time for a stop to find out what the fuss is all about.
On route we passed Mount Tibrogargan fringed here by pineapple fields - Image: Elaine de Wet
is just off the Bruce Highway approximately twenty kilometres outside of Caboolture. This mountain stands 123 metres above sea level - so is a relative 'baby' in comparison to the rest of the mountains in the Glass House Mountain range, but is well worth the effort to climb the very steep paved incline to the top (or so they told me).
Breathtaking views and we hadn't even reached the top yet - Image: Elaine de Wet
Plenty of car parking at the base - I was very surprised to see how many people were actually walking this route on this particular day - mid-afternoon, mid-week - there were couples as well as groups going up and down. Just my luck, on our way up, two elderly gentlemen came down and quite happily informed us '
the going gets really tough for the last ten minutes'. Well, thanks for that, nothing quite like a bit of negativity to get into my head and for me to say to hubby,
'may be we should do this another day' or
'I'll sit here, you go up and take some photos for me'. My better half wasn't having any of that, so off we went.
The Lookout/Fire Tower providing a well-earned rest place - Image: Elaine de Wet
Just as we were told, this
IS a very steep incline, but once reaching the top, the absolute breathtaking 360 degree panoramic views across the Pumicestone Passage, Bribie, Moreton Islands, Glass House Mountains, pine forestry plantations and even Brisbane in the distance, was prize enough for me. This area is in the middle of the Pumicestone Catchment - a catchment is a land area surrounded by natural features where water drains to the lowest point.
Even on a hazy day, the Glass House Mountains are spectacular - Image: Elaine de Wet
The Lookout tower provides welcome shaded relief after the walk up and with interpretive boards explaining to the adventurous the features of the surrounding area, is the perfect spot to rest, immerse yourself in the views and prepare for the downhill trek back to your car. I do feel that a water vending machine in the tower would be an added bonus and could assist the firefighters with funding - yes, you've guessed it, I left my water bottle in the car.
One of many Interpretive boards - Image: Elaine de Wet
Please don't ask me how long it takes to climb the
ONLY 700 metres to the top of Wild Horse Mountain as I would be too shamefaced to share my time with you, but having looked at forums, I've discovered that some 'boasters' said they did it as the last of
'seven summits in a day'; or
'only four and a half minutes up and three minutes down' - yeah, whatever!
Don't forget your water bottle and our furry family members are also welcome as long as they're on a leash.
Despite my grumbling, this is a walk that is absolutely worth it - if I can do it, so can you!
It's only 700 metres to the top - Image: Elaine de Wet
