Brisbane Valley Rail Trail + Scenic Rim Hike

South East Queensland
Whilst not as famous or flashy as it’s Gold Coast or Sunshine Coast cousins, inner south-east Queensland is an adventure paradise. World class walking, the new Brisbane Valley Rail Trail and yes wine making, are all here. And all within short reach of Brisbane.

Brisbane Valley Rail Trail – Cycling

This recently completed cycling and walking path is a fantastic feat of development by the local councils and volunteers. At 161kms in length it is the longest rail trail in Australia. It is a mixed surface cycling trail, and so we use well-equipped mountain bikes. Although small sections are paved, the majority of the trail is either hard packed gravel or dirt track. There are some stunning bridges, some we cross and some we go under, and being elevated at the northern end there are terrific views. It’s undeniably outback Queensland but we have found a couple of gourmet secrets so we do get to enjoy quality meals.

Cycling the BVRT is a little bit of an adventure. It’s still on the easy side in terms of difficulty, the distances aren’t great and we start at the northern end so it’s largely downhill. But it’s not a paved path (and not a mountain bike single track either, but somewhere in between). So some basic biking skills are required.

Scenic Rim Trail – Hiking

The Scenic Rim refers to the chain of mountains incorporating the Great Dividing Range, the Border Range and Tamborine Mountains. The best way to explore this region is on foot. Being the only Great Walk of Australia in Queensland, this is a region that is still relatively undiscovered & unexplored with world-class hiking trails, accommodation, guides and interpretation.

Each evening we experience an accommodation experience like no other. Located 600 meters above sea level on a private nature refuge, we ‘glamp’ in 10 permanent ‘safari- style’ tents with polished timber floorboards, plush beds & a large armchair on your private deck perfect for looking out onto the magnificent mountain views surrounding you. Chef prepared meals, wines and unparalleled star views around a campfire is how camping should be done!

The Scenic Rim Trail hike is graded moderate to hard and is designed for people with a good level of fitness who have had previous hiking experience. Day 1 is graded moderate (grade 3) and day 2 is graded hard (level 4). The only equipment you will carry is your hiking pack (32L) and the essentials you need for the walk that day.  Items might include; a camera/GoPro, jumper, any personal medications you require, a hat, 2x 750ml water bottle and your pre-prepared lunch. Your guides will also carry tea and coffee.