Mount Coot-Tha Summit Lookout, Brisbane (must see)

Mount Coot-tha Summit Lookout, also referred to as One-Tree-Hill, is a scenic viewpoint located within the Taylor Range mountain range. The name "Coot-tha" originates from the indigenous term signifying "place of honey." It stands as the highest elevation point in Brisbane.

The history of Mount Coot-tha and its lookout spans back to the late 1830s when most of the trees were cleared from the area, leaving only a single tree standing as a reference point for surveyors. This initial state earned the mountain the moniker One Tree Hill. By the 1880s, the summit had been cleared, and facilities such as a shelter shed and water tank were constructed, making it a popular destination for day-trippers.

In 1918, a kiosk was established at Mount Coot-tha, and roads and walking paths were built to provide easier access to the lookout, catering to a growing number of visitors. Over the years, the original kiosk has undergone renovations and expansions to accommodate the increasing influx of visitors. Additional amenities like restrooms, a lounge area, garden beds, retaining walls, and an elevated viewing platform were added during the 1950s.

Presently, Mount Coot-tha boasts a restaurant, numerous hiking trails, and even offers free Wi-Fi at the lookout point. The lookout welcomes visitors 24 hours a day, although some facilities may be closed during late-night and early-morning hours.