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Brisbane’s city towers and river seen from Kangaroo Point
Brisbane · Walking guides

Kangaroo Point cliffs: choose your level and river view

Kangaroo Point gives you two different ways to see Brisbane: the lower riverside path and the park above the cliffs. Choose the level that suits your energy, then make a deliberate decision about stairs, a café stop and the return crossing.

01

Start with the lower riverside path

From the South Bank end, follow the signed public river route towards Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park. The lower path puts the cliff face on one side and the river on the other. Use the public-art trail as a reason to pause, rather than treating this as a timed fitness circuit. Watch for shared-path users and respect climbing areas without stepping into equipment or activity zones.

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02

Decide whether to climb to the upper park

The upper park offers a higher view across the river towards the city and gardens. Reaching it from below can involve steep stairs, so do not promise yourself both levels if heat, mobility or tired legs make that unappealing. Choose the upper park as a separate arrival if appropriate, checking a current accessible route; the cliffside stairs are not a step-free shortcut.

03

Use Joey’s as an optional clifftop pause

At the upper level, Joey’s is a café and dining option at 29 River Terrace. Consider it for a seated break with the city view, rather than descending just to find a meal. Check the current menu, service and reservation options; a full meal is optional. You can keep the outing simpler with water and a rest in the public park instead.

04

Choose a return crossing before adding distance

For a longer loop, locate Kangaroo Point Bridge on your map and follow signed public paths towards its landing. It links Kangaroo Point with the city, where the City Botanic Gardens can form the next stop. Goodwill Bridge is a different crossing near the gardens’ southern end and South Bank. Do not confuse either with Story Bridge or add all three crossings just to complete a circuit.

05

Match the walk to the conditions

Take sun protection and water even for a short cliff visit, and save exposed sections for a cooler part of a hot day. Wet steps deserve extra care; turn back or choose a different level if the route feels unsuitable. For a rainy alternative, replace the cliff outing with QAG or GOMA in South Brisbane. Comfortable shoes with grip are useful, while climbing equipment belongs only in a separately planned, appropriate activity.

Check before you go

Opening arrangements and visitor rules can change. Check the official information before your trip.

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