The track entrance is located 9.9 kilometres south of the Nine Mile Beach Access Track (Junction 19). So be mindful of the extra distance you will need to walk along the beach if you cannot access the trailhead via 4WD.
The Queen Mary Sand Blow Track offers a fascinating journey through one of Byfield National Park's most striking landscapes. Located on the southern end of Nine Mile Beach, this 4-kilometre return track leads you to Queen Mary Sand Blow, the largest active sand blow in the region. This unique natural feature creates a stunning 'moonscape' where the shifting sands shape the environment in a constant dance with the elements. The track itself takes around 1.5 hours to complete, and visitors should allow about two hours for the full hike.
The track entrance is located 9.9 kilometres south of the Nine Mile Beach Access Track (Junction 19). So be mindful of the extra distance you will need to walk along the beach. From there, the trail takes you through the coastal landscape, offering exceptional views as you approach the sand blow. Though the track is clearly marked from the beach to the base of the sand blow, the adventure truly starts once you reach this surreal natural formation. With its expansive dunes stretching out before you, it's easy to feel the vastness of the landscape and appreciate the power of nature at work.
While this track is classified as Grade 4, meaning it can be challenging in places, the effort is well worth it for the chance to experience this extraordinary part of Byfield National Park. The scenery along the way is awe-inspiring, with coastal views complementing the stark beauty of the sand blow itself. It's the perfect opportunity to witness the raw power of nature, where the environment shifts and changes constantly, reminding us of its ability to shape the land.
Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a unique outdoor experience, the Queen Mary Sand Blow Track offers an unforgettable adventure. With its dramatic landscapes and peaceful atmosphere, it’s a great choice for those seeking a rewarding challenge in Byfield National Park.
Got some great shots from this hike? Upload your photos here to inspire others and show off the beauty of the trail!
Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You can be credited for your contributions, and you can request removal at any time.
Main image: Tourism Queensland
It looks like I don’t have a GPX file for this trail yet. If you have one to share, please email it to me! I’ll verify it against official maps before adding it to help other hikers have a safer, easier experience. Thanks for contributing to a better hiking resource.
Every trail on this site has been personally mapped and refined to support Australia’s hiking community. While some info comes from land managers, each listing reflects significant personal work. Please don’t upload GPX files or content from this site to AllTrails or any other platform. This is a free community initiative—your respect helps keep it that way.
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.
To reach the Queen Mary Sand Blow Track in Byfield National Park, you’ll need a high-clearance 4WD, as the route involves driving on soft sand and navigating remote tracks. From Rockhampton, travel north on the Bruce Highway (A1) before turning onto Yeppoon Road toward the coast. From Yeppoon, follow Byfield Road north to enter the park, then take the designated 4WD tracks leading to Nine Mile Beach. The trailhead is located 9.9 km south of Nine Mile Beach Access Track/Junction 19, marked where the beach meets the base of the sand blow. Be sure to check tide charts, as beach sections may become impassable at high tide, and be prepared for changing conditions, as heavy rain can affect road access. There are no facilities at the trailhead, so bring ample water, sun protection, and navigation tools for a safe and enjoyable hike.
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.
Favourite
Favourite
Keppel Bay Islands National Park
Favourite
Mount Archer National Park
Favourite
Mount Larcom State Forest
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.
