The Orange Bowl Sand Blow is a notable natural feature within Byfield National Park, located approximately 70 kilometres north-east of Rockhampton, Queensland. This expansive sand formation offers visitors panoramic views over Byfield's coast and hinterland. The trail to the sand blow is a 1.5-kilometre return walk, beginning 1.4 kilometres south of the Nine Mile Beach Access Track (Junction 19). Initially, the well-formed path meanders 250 metres through shady foredunes, leading to the base of the sand blow. From there, hikers traverse an additional 475 metres across exposed sands to reach vantage points that showcase the surrounding landscapes. It's advisable to undertake this walk during the cooler parts of the day and to carry sufficient water, as the exposed sections can become quite warm. The trail is rated as Grade 4, indicating a moderate level of difficulty.
For those interested in exploring more of Byfield National Park's trails, the Queen Mary Sand Blow offers a longer 4-kilometre return hike, showcasing the park's largest active sand blow. Whether you're seeking a leisurely walk or a more challenging hike, Byfield provides a range of options to suit various preferences.
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Main image: Tourism Queensland
Total distance: 1130 m
Max elevation: 35 m
Min elevation: 13 m
Total climbing: 48 m
Total descent: -48 m
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Closest towns to this walk: Biloela, Byfield, Emerald, Emu Park, Gladstone, Keppel Sands, Mount Morgan, Rockhampton, Yeppoon, Yeppoon Biloela, Yeppoon Emu Park, Zilzie Biloela
Getting to the trailhead in Byfield National Park.
Access to the trailhead requires a four-wheel-drive vehicle due to the park’s rugged terrain and variable track conditions. Visitors should be mindful of weather conditions, as heavy rainfall can affect road accessibility. You can reach it via the Nine Mile Beach Access Track (Junction 19). This track leads directly to the beach, but conditions can vary, and driving on the sand requires experience with tide times and vehicle recovery gear.
Vehicle access to certain areas, such as Five Rocks Beach (Three Rivers Beach), is restricted beyond designated points. Always check local guidelines and park alerts before planning your visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Byfield National Park, Byfield Conservation Park, and Byfield State Forest offer diverse landscapes, from rugged coastal dunes to lush rainforest creeks. Located about 70 kilometres north-east of Rockhampton, these parks provide a perfect escape for nature lovers, whether you're hiking, camping, or simply enjoying the scenery. Towering sand dunes, striking pinnacles, and tranquil waterways make this region a haven for outdoor adventure.
Covering over 15,000 hectares, Byfield National Park is known for its vast coastal heathlands and impressive parabolic dunes, some stretching 5–6 kilometres inland. The northern section features the rugged peaks of Mount Atherton, while sheltered areas support tall eucalypt woodlands and lush rainforest. The park is also a prime spot for birdwatching, with a mix of migratory and resident species.
Byfield Conservation Park offers more coastal beauty, while Byfield State Forest combines native forest with exotic pine plantations. The forested ranges and Water Park Creek provide excellent opportunities for camping, picnicking, and bushwalking. Boating, fishing, and 4WD adventures are also popular in certain areas. However, road conditions can change rapidly, with flash floods sometimes making access difficult, so visitors should check weather forecasts before heading out.
Just an hour from North Rockhampton or 30 minutes from Yeppoon, Byfield is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels. Whether you're looking for an easy walk or a more challenging hike, Trail Hiking Australia has the best trails to help you explore this remarkable region.
Looking for hikes and trails in Byfield National Park or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.
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Grade 4 (Hard) -
Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the
AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.
Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
