Everything you need to know – your online guide to the scenic Brisbane Valley Rail Trail.
The Brisbane Valley Rail Trail is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking adventure and natural beauty. Spanning 161 kilometres through the breathtaking Queensland countryside, this trail offers a unique opportunity to explore the region’s rich history and stunning landscapes. Not far from Brisbane, Queensland’s great adventure rail trail is all off-road and traffic free. Come and experience for yourself why thousands of people love exploring the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail by bicycle, on horseback or on foot. (Video)
About the Trail
Currently the longest rail trail in Australia, the 161 km Brisbane Valley Rail Trail (BVRT) follows the disused Brisbane Valley rail line that commenced construction at Wulkuraka near Ipswich in 1884 and was completed at Yarraman in 1913. The BVRT winds its way up the Brisbane valley, traversing farmland, forests, picturesque rural settings and country towns. Being on the old railway line, the BVRT provides an gentle, off-road climb up the valley for day trippers, overnight camping or longer term adventures. More info.
There have been many improvements over the years, but the BVRT is still an adventure trail. Visitors should come prepared to be self sufficient between the towns.
Most of the towns along the BVRT have a variety of pubs, bakeries, shops and cafes that offer excellent food and drink. Overnight accommodation is available in Fernvale, Lowood, Esk, Toogoolawah, Moore, Linville, Blackbutt and Yarraman. Be sure to carry plenty of drinking water.
Although it’s open all year round, some sections of the BVRT may be closed for short periods following severe weather events. Check out the DTMR webpage for up-to-date information.
Where is the Trail?
The BVRT officially starts at the new southern BVRT trail head nr Wulkuraka Station at 163 Grace St, Wulkuraka in Ipswich, and then continues to Fernvale, before looping westwards to Lowood and then continuing north to Coominya, Esk, Toogoolawah, Moore, Linville, Benarkin, and Blackbutt before finally arriving at the northern BVRT Trail Head in Yarraman Station Park in Yarraman. Or you can do it the other way around. Out There Cycling provides an excellent shuttle service. Tip: North to South is easier than South to North as there is more downhill. (Map)
Paper BVRT GUIDE by Mark Roberts and Gillian Duncan available to order or download.
Additional notes
There are water bubblers in every town except Coominya, Moore and Yarraman Station Park where there is no town water supply.
There are some water troughs for horses at various locations on the trail.
Please note, cafes may not open in the evenings and pubs tend to close their kitchens early in rural areas. Best to phone and check.
Is my bicycle suitable?
MTBs and gravel bikes with off-road tyres and low gears are recommended. The BVRT is definitely unsuitable for light-weight racing bicycles or bicycles that lack the strength for off-road cycling. E-bikes are permitted and are a great way to enjoy the rail trail. If you carry a charger, most local cafes and pubs will let you plug in your battery whilst enjoying a meal. Accommodation providers and the major campsites have power points. Bicycles should be well maintained and you should carry a basic tool kit with puncture repair kit, and know how to use it.
Dog walking: On leash dogs are permitted on the BVRT.
For up to date information about the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, please Like the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail Users Association Facebook page.
Merchandise
The great new BVRT Users Association cycling jerseys are now available to order.
Latest News
Keep up to date with the Latest News about the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail.
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Brisbane Valley Rail Trail Adventures is a sponsor of the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail Users Association.
BVRT Online Guide developed and published by Paul Heymans, Wivenhoe PA Pty Ltd t/a Brisbane Valley Rail Trail Adventures (ABN 50097668203) to promote tourism on the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail.
