Stockyard Point Headland Lookout offers a rewarding short walk with sweeping coastal views in Byfield National Park and Conservation Park. The 2.3-kilometre return track begins at the northern end of Nine Mile Beach, where a steady climb leads up the rugged headland. As you gain elevation, the landscape shifts from soft sands to rocky outcrops, with hardy coastal vegetation clinging to the slopes.
At the easternmost lookout, the view stretches far in both directions along the shoreline, with the vast Pacific Ocean rolling in below. On a clear day, you can spot the Keppel Islands scattered across the horizon, their forested peaks rising from the water. The ever-changing colours of the sea, shaped by the light and weather, make this an ideal spot to pause and take in the surroundings.
The walk is graded as easy, making it accessible for most visitors, though some uneven terrain may require careful footing. Allow about an hour for the return journey, but give yourself extra time to soak in the scenery. With fresh coastal air and uninterrupted views, this lookout is a great place to appreciate the wild beauty of Byfield National Park.
Total distance: 2265 m
Max elevation: 73 m
Min elevation: 29 m
Total climbing: 77 m
Total descent: -77 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.
To reach Stockyard Point Headland Lookout by car, you’ll need a high-clearance 4WD, as the route passes through soft sand and rugged tracks within Byfield National Park. From Yeppoon, head north on Yeppoon-Byfield Road for about 35 kilometres, then turn right onto Sandy Point Road, following signs for Nine Mile Beach and Stockyard Point.
Continue along this track, navigating sandy sections and creek crossings, until you reach Nine Mile Beach. Drive along the beach at low tide, taking care to check tide times beforehand, as access can become difficult at high tide. At the northern end of the beach, look for the access point leading up to Stockyard Point. Park at the base of the headland and follow the walking track up to the lookout. Always check local conditions before setting out, as sand movement and weather can affect the track’s accessibility.
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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Kroombit Tops National Park
Grade 2 (Easy) -Â
A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the
AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.
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.
