How to explore The Brisbane Valley Rail Trail
Whether it’s to cycle, horse ride, or hike, we’ve rounded up all the things you need to know before you hit The Brisbane Valley Rail Trail.
By Remy Taylor,
May 22, 2023
From coast to coast, Australia has been blessed with some undeniably great nature trails for adventure-seekers. If you ever happen to find yourself in the hills of Brisbane (just one hour from Brisbane City) and are looking to spin some wheels beyond your RV, then The Brisbane Valley Rail Trail or BVRT is worth taking the time out to explore.
Whether it’s to cycle, horse ride, or take the scenic route in your hiking boots, we’ve rounded up all the things you need to know before you hit The Brisbane Valley Rail Trail.
First things first, where and what exactly is The BVRT?
The BVRT takes you through some of the most epic landscapes in Queensland. The path traces the 161km former train corridor from Wulkuraka just outside Ipswich, to Yarraman in the South Burnett region.
The railway line was originally built to get to the timber resources in the Brisbane River Valley and ran for 76 years before closing in 1989.
Now, it is an incredible off-road adventure trail mixed with heritage-listed and historic sites for people of all ages to enjoy. Sound good? We’re only just getting started.
There are a bunch of ways you can explore the BVRT
Cycle, hike or horse ride the scenic country trail
The trail is perfect for hiking, biking or horse-riding enthusiasts looking for a great country adventure.
The route is easily doable over three or four days on a bike ride, and because most of it is unsealed (except for the last 5 kilometres), it’s also a tempting hike. If you’re keen to stay for a while, it is possible to walk the entire trail in seven or eight days, staying in a town each night.
Plus, if you’re into horse-riding, there are horse riding tour operators available to cater for day trips or overnight treks.
Just going for a day trip? No worries! There’s a shuttle bus service by Out There Cycling that stops along each town to allow you to pop in and out when you want.
Explore the history of the towns
The towns you’ll pass through are just as memorable as the countryside with their rich history and rural lifestyles and come with plenty of opportunities to shop and dine.
From art galleries, museums, and historic and heritage-listed sites like Yimbun Tunnel, there really is no shortage of things to do and see.
One particular gem, Alexandra Hall in Toogoolwah, built in 1906, still screens movies to audiences in original style. Complete with a ticket a booth out the front and old-school canvas chairs inside.
Visit one of the greatest water sports areas in Queensland
When planning your BVRT experience, you’re going to want to have Somerset Dam pretty close to the top of your list of must-dos. It’s a popular destination for those who love outdoor activities and water sports and can be found along the trail.
And don’t worry if water sports aren’t your thing, fishing is another great option.
Check out the farming and wildlife adventures suited for the whole family
The best part about the BVRT is that you can customise your experience. If you’re looking for family-friendly things to do, then there are plenty of countryside attractions that showcase the area’s wildlife and farming culture.
And as if it couldn’t get any better, there are Llama farms where visitors can pet llamas, alpacas, camels and even donkeys, not to mention Koala sanctuaries
Browse the local farmers markets
If you like to shop and eat produce straight from the farm, then you’re in for a treat! The BVRT offers a plethora of market options to choose from.
Check out these great markets along the BVRT:
- Yarraman Markets: 2nd Saturday of each month, 7am-12pm on the corner of New England & D’Aguilar Highways
- Moore Hall Markets: 3rd Saturday of each month, 6:30am-12pm
- Toogoolawah Railway Markets: 2nd Saturday of each month, 8am-2pm at the old railway station
- Esk Country Markets: Saturday mornings, 7am-12pm at Pipeliner Park
- Fernvale Country Markets: Sundays, 6am-12pm at Fernvale State School.
Accommodation
Looking to stay? The BVRT has a range of unique country-town accommodations. You can choose your own experience staying in historic country pubs, serene B & B cottage retreats, homely guest houses, glamping tents, caravan parks or immerse yourself in nature with free camping. Accommodation is limited in some areas along the trail, so booking your trip well in advance is highly recommended.
Itching to plan your trip to Brisbane Valley Rail Trail? Here are some helpful resources to get you started:
