Brisbane’s riverfront offers many picturesque walking tracks, but few are as popular with dog owners as the stretch linking Hamilton to New Farm.
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The riverwalk, which winds its way through six kilometres of flat, paved pathways, has become a favourite weekend outing for locals and their four-legged companions.
Unlike bush trails that demand steep climbs or rugged terrain, this path caters to a slower pace, perfect for both casual walkers and small dogs. It passes through leafy stretches, boardwalks, and open river views, finishing at New Farm Park, a well-known hub for dogs and their owners. The park provides designated off-leash areas, with separate zones for smaller breeds and larger, more energetic pups.
The route has become more than just exercise. Cafés along the way welcome pets, with some even offering water bowls or complimentary dog treats. It’s this combination of fitness and socialising, both human and canine, that keeps people returning.
But popularity comes with its challenges. At peak times, particularly on weekends, the path can feel crowded with walkers, joggers, cyclists, and prams all sharing the space. Owners of nervous or excitable dogs may find these conditions a little overwhelming.
Still, for many Brisbane dog owners, the Hamilton to New Farm Riverwalk strikes the right balance: a scenic riverside outing with a clear reward at the end—an off-leash romp in one of the city’s most iconic parks.
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For pet lovers, the walk offers more than just a chance to stretch their dog’s legs. It’s a community space where owners swap stories, puppies learn social skills, and older dogs can wander at their own pace. In many ways, the Hamilton to New Farm Riverwalk has become part of Brisbane’s pet culture, a reminder that the city’s green spaces aren’t just for people, but for the paws that walk beside them.
Published 8-October-2025
