WHERE are the best walks in Toowoomba?

This is what we asked Toowoomba locals on our Facebook page:

And based on their answers here are the top five best walks in the Toowoomba region (in no particular order):

1: Table Top Mountain

Table Top is a 1.9km return walk to the top of the 700m high mountain. The circuit has some steep sections but suits most walkers of moderate fitness and is suitable for older children. The summit offers views spectacular views of the Lockyer Valley.

>> Table Top Mtn: How to climb Toowoomba's natural treasure

Gina Thomson wrote: "I guess Table Top is my fav, it's close, still a little challenging and peaceful." 

DETAILS:
Walk: Table Top Mountain
Location: Follow South Street until it turns into Table Top Drive, Toowoomba
Length: 1.9km return walk
Difficulty: Medium
Suitable for children: Yes for older children

2. Redwood Park

Redwood Park is a 197ha park with trails and shared walking, horse riding and mountain bike riding racks. There are a number of walking tracks of varying lengths and fitness levels.

Graham Fountain recommended Redwood Park saying: "If you really want to burn some calories, do the entire 8km circuit, starting at either Bridge St or Warrego Hwy. Steep climbs through nice varied bushland, with a sidetrack to a little hidden gem."

DETAILS:
Walk: Redwood Park
Location: Easiest access to the park is from Bridge Street, Toowoomba
Length: Number of walks: Forest Walk (3.8km); Ferntree Gully Walk (840m); Grass Tree track (1.7km); Eagle's Nest Trail as well as horse and mountain bike riding trails.
Difficulty: Easy to medium
Suitable for children: Yes on some trails

3. Ravensbourne National Park

Ravensbourne National Park is on the edge of the Great Dividing Range, about 50km (and a 50 minute drive) north of Toowoomba. It is a day use park with short walks though the forest.

Rob Hack said: "Ravensbourne National Park. Picnic area with a view over the eastern horizon."

DETAILS:
Walk: Ravensbourne National Park
Location: Esk-Hampton Road, Ravensbourne
Length: Short walks
Difficulty: Easy
Suitable for children: Yes

4. Queens Park

Queens Park is a large grassy park ideal for a stroll or picnic. It is also home to Toowoomba's Botanical Gardens.  

Jemima Pretzel wrote: "Queens Park to the Prince Henry loop and back is a nice one."

DETAILS:
Walk: Queens Park
Location: Queens Park, Lindsay Street, Toowoomba
Length: Medium
Difficulty: Easy
Suitable for children: Yes

5. Mount Peel Bushland Reserve

Mount Peel is a large block of bushland. There is a grassed fire trail circling the base of the mountain. The summit is rocky with some lantana.

Graham Fountain commented: "Mt Peel South - a longer hike than Table Top, but the climb is less strenuous. At the peak the views are fantastic. Unlike Table Top you are almost guaranteed to be on your own - no pausing while others go past etc, just straight out solitude."

DETAILS:
Walk: Mount Peel 
Location: Mount Peel Bushland Reserve, Westminster Street, Drayton
Length: Over 7kms
Difficulty: Medium
Suitable for children: Yes but only on the walk around the base of the mountain

Here is the full list of recommendations:

1. Table Top Mountain, Toowoomba
2. Mount Peel Bushland Reserve, Drayton
3. Redwood Park, Toowoomba
4. Ravensbourne National Park, Ravensbourne
5. Queens Park, Toowoomba
6. Queen Mary Falls, Kilarney
7. Crowns Nest Falls, Crows Nest
8. Highfields Falls, Highfields
9. Bunya Mountains
10. Wine Drive, Toowoomba
11. West Creek Reserve, Toowoomba