What an interesting name, am I right?
Apparently this region was named Glass House Mountains by Capital James Cook, because afar from the sea, they resemble Glasshouse factories in England at that time. Apart of this side note, these mountain peaks carry with them a combined rich history of culture and nature. It is recommended for people not to climb a few sections of the mountain peaks because of the spiritual significance to the Aboriginal people, so please show respect and stay on the designated tracks while walking or climbing. These mountain peaks are either volcanic plugs or formed by magma/lava and shaped by erosion, it is one of the best work of nature!
For the experienced Adventurers and Climbers, the summit routes of Mount Beerwah and Mount Tibrogargan come highly recommended. it is said that Mount Beerwah is more difficult compared to Mount Tibrogargan, it is the tallest peak amongst the Glass House Mountain peaks. After the tough climb, the reward is the unbeatable 360 unobstructed view. However, the rocks are slippery even during dry season, so every step will need to be a strategic one as it is full-on scrambling all the way. Please do not attempt to climb when it is raining or in the days after, and always have someone more experienced with you. Like my friends always say, you do not want to end up on the news. :)
For hikers, social walkers and weekenders, the summits of Mount Ngungun, Wild Horse Mountain, Mount Beerburrum are hard to pass. They are perfect places to get those legs burning, and having an awesome 360 degree view at the summit. Autumn and Winter are perfect season to walking on these mountains while listen to the birds sing. They are loved by abseiler and climbers, but don't worry about the path being over crowded, they will branch off during the hike. You will see a cave half way through the Mount Ngungun hiking trail, it is the sacred birthing place of local Aboriginal tribe, please be aware and respectful to not go in there. After all, you probably don't want other people to be in your wives' delivery rooms...
As a weekend hiker myself, I will share a bit more about these three mountains. They are suitable to all fitness level and age, the tracks wind up the mountain. I'm of moderate fit, and I did both Mount Ngungun and Beerburrum in one day. For the little ones walking Mount Ngungun, I would recommend for extra care to be taken on the submit and some sections of the track near the summit as they are close to the cliff edge. For Wild Horse and Mount Beerburrum, the tracks are wide and concreted, so it's a lot easier. Wild Horse and Beerburrum offers distance view across the entire mountain peaks, while Mount Ngungun offers a more close up view of Mount Tibrogargan and Coonowrin, and the sections of the suburb houses between them.
There are many other mountain peaks in the region, such as Mount Coonowrin or Crookneck Mountain, but they are closed off due to safety concerns and protection of its ecological environment. But, they are nature's gifts best observed from afar. For the holiday seekers, there are many accommodations situations among the mountain peaks with fantastic positions to observe the mountains, such as Glass on Glasshouse Mountain. The Lookout Cafe is right next to it, imagine having your morning coffee and breakfast with the view in the below picture!
This is definitely a region worth coming back to! I hope you enjoy it! YOLOHiking
