Explore the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail

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 kilometers 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.

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 serviceTip: North to South is easier than South to North as there is more downhill. Click here to download a map.

Paper BVRT GUIDE by Mark Roberts and Gillian Duncan available to order or download.

Self-Guided tour booking service also available – more info.

Eat, Drink and Sleep

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.

Recommended places to Eat and Sleep.

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.

What kind of bicycle is most suitable?

Cyclists ride the BVRT on all types of bicycle, but some sections can be quite challenging. MTBs and gravel bikes are recommended. The BVRT is definitely unsuitable for light-weight racing bicycles. 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.

Events

The Brisbane Valley Rail Trail Users Association organises a number of great cycling events on the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail.   Check out the videos and the latest calendar of events.

Mountain Bike Hire – mountain bikes are available for hire. More info.

Dog walking: On leash dogs are permitted on the BVRT.

Information

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.

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. 

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Brisbane Valley Rail Trail Adventures is a sponsor of the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail Users Association.

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