Brisbane Valley Rail Trail (161km)

Immerse yourself in Queensland's rich history and stunning landscapes along the 161km Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, Australia's longest rail trail.

Weaving its way up the Brisbane Valley, the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail follows the path of the old railway line, built between 1884 and 1913. It once transported timber, coal, and passengers, playing a vital role in World War II. Passenger service ended in 1989, but the trail's rebirth offers a new way to experience the valley's charm.

Whether you're a cyclist, hiker, or horse rider, the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail caters to all experience levels. Take a leisurely day trip, camp under the stars, or embark on a multi-day adventure. The gentle off-road climb makes it perfect for exploring at your own pace.

While the trail is open year-round, be prepared for occasional closures after severe weather. Check the Department of Transport and Main Roads (DTMR) website for updates.

The Brisbane Valley Rail Trail winds through picturesque farmlands, forests, and charming country towns. Discover historic sites like the Harlin Rail Bridge and the Yimbun Tunnel, remnants of the railway's past.

The Brisbane Valley Rail Trail is a celebration of the region's heritage, culture, and natural beauty. It's a place to explore, connect with the land, and create lasting memories.

The Brisbane Valley Rail Trail is an adventure trail to tackle either by horse, bike or foot that follows the former Brisbane Valley railway line from Wulkuraka in Ipswich (trailhead located at 163 Grace Street, Wulkuraka QLD) to Yarraman (trailhead located at Yarraman Station Park QLD). The gravelled trail has a gentle gradient that offers a more enjoyable downhill run heading south-east from Yarraman to Wulkuraka or a more challenging uphill run the other way. All ages and fitness levels can explore the various sections of the trail or you can do it all at once, you get to decide what the perfect adventure is for you.

Trail sections

Wulkuraka to Fernvale (23km)
An easy to moderate section. Initial surface is part concrete before the trail returns to a more natural gravel surface where some minor rough spots may appear. The first half of this section is good for summer with tree cover lining the trail.

Fernvale to Lowood (8km)
An easy section of the trail that is very flat. The trail surface is relatively smooth.

Lowood to Coominya (12km)
An easy to moderate section that is relatively flat. This section may have some rough areas.

Coominya to Esk (24km)
A moderate to advanced section that has one of the trails first major uphill gradients. This section will require a medium to high level of fitness considering the distance.

Esk to Toogoolawah (19km)
A moderate to advanced section with a minor uphill gradient. This section will require a medium level of fitness.

Toogoolawah to Harlin (14km)
An easy section that is relatively flat although there is one major steep gradient approaching Harlin. The trail surface is relatively smooth.

Harlin to Moore (13km)
An easy to moderate section with some steep gradients. The trail surface is relatively smooth. Be prepared for some major highway crossings along this section – take care and give way to traffic.

Moore to Linville (7km)
An easy to moderate section that has minor gradient changes. This section may have some rough areas.

Linville to Benarkin (17km)
Advance section as you head up the range. This section may have rough areas.

Benarkin to Blackbutt (5km)
A moderately difficult section that has several gradient changes. This section may have some rough areas.

Blackbutt to Yarraman (19km)
A moderately difficult section that has several gradient changes. This section may have some rough areas.

For more information on each section of the trail, including a trail map, visit https://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/bvrt/trail-map