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.
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.
Total distance: 2265 m
Max elevation: 73 m
Min elevation: 29 m
Total climbing: 77 m
Total descent: -77 m
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Getting to the trailhead: 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.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Find accommodation close to the trailhead including hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Use the interactive map to explore available options in nearby towns.
Nearby towns: Biloela, Byfield, Emerald, Emu Park, Gladstone, Keppel Sands, Mount Morgan, Rockhampton, Yeppoon, Yeppoon Biloela, Yeppoon Emu Park, Zilzie Biloela
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 more walks in or near Byfield National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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Kroombit Tops National Park
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