Glasshouse Mountain summit routes: Balancing safety, accessibility, and tolerable risk

The Glasshouse Mountains National Park located in Southeast Queensland, Australia is formed around a group of 11 volcanic peaks. The variety of walking tracks within the remarkable natural environment and panoramic views attainable at the peaks mean the national park is increasing in popularity with locals and tourists alike. Two of these peaks, Mount Tibrogargan and Mount Beerwah, include summit routes that have exposed, steep rock sections that are explicitly recommended only for fit, experienced hikers and rock scramblers by Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS).

These two noted summit routes present unique challenges for managing slope risk due to their exceptionally steep topography and natural hazards. This paper explores the application of quantitative geotechnical risk assessment processes to reduce risk for track users while maintaining accessibility to these popular natural sites.

The tolerable risk levels for more challenging trails like these are typically aligned with other perceived high-risk recreational activities, such as climbing, scuba-diving and skiing. Assessing what is considered tolerable risk helps strike a balance between public safety and accessibility. This process is a risk-based compromise between maintaining access to the natural landscape, minimising invasive infrastructure, and reducing exposure to hazards.

Ultimately, to allow continued public access, there is a need for regular risk assessments and review of risk management to uphold safety standards while allowing the public to engage with these fulfilling national park experiences.