Introduction
The Glass House Mountains are a beautiful range of mountains located in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland in South East Queensland, Australia. The Glass House Mountains are a collection of eleven distinct peaks that make up the Glass House National Park, a protected area of more than 27,000 hectares. The distinctive peaks of the Glass House Mountains are both a national and international icon that have been formed over thousands of years by volcanic activity.
The peaks of the Glass House Mountains are a sight to behold, and they offer a variety of outdoor activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a day of hiking, mountain biking, bird-watching, or simply taking in the stunning views, the Glass House Mountains have something for everyone.
History
The Glass House Mountains were first sighted by explorer James Cook in 1770, during his voyage of discovery in Australia. He named the mountains after the glass furnaces in his home county of Yorkshire, England.
The Glass House Mountains are of great cultural and spiritual significance to the local Aboriginal people, the Gubbi Gubbi and Jinibara Nation. The mountains have been a significant part of their culture and spiritual beliefs for thousands of years.
Today, the Glass House Mountains are a protected area within the Glass House National Park, and are home to a variety of rare and endangered species of plants, animals and birds.
Things to Do
The Glass House Mountains have a range of activities to offer visitors. Some of the most popular activities include:
Hiking
The Glass House Mountains offer a wide variety of hiking trails for visitors to explore, including the popular Glass House Mountains Walking Track. The track is a six-kilometre loop that takes in the major peaks of the range and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Mountain Biking
The Glass House Mountains are a popular destination for mountain biking enthusiasts. The national park is home to a network of trails suitable for all skill levels, from beginner to expert.
Birdwatching
The Glass House Mountains are home to a variety of native birds, including the endangered glossy black-cockatoo. Birdwatchers can find plenty of opportunities to spot native birds in the national park.
Camping
The Glass House Mountains National Park offers a variety of camping sites for visitors to enjoy. Campers can choose from a range of sites, ranging from unpowered camp sites to powered sites with hot showers and toilets.
Accommodation
The Glass House Mountains also offer a range of accommodation options for visitors. From camping sites and holiday parks to luxury resorts, there is something to suit all budgets and tastes.
Conclusion
The Glass House Mountains are a beautiful range of mountains located in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland in South East Queensland, Australia. With its stunning views, variety of outdoor activities and rich cultural and spiritual significance, the Glass House Mountains are a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an unforgettable experience in nature.