Boarding NSW and the pacific Ocean, it is not uncommon for hikes to have views of both worlds (ocean and hinterland). Hikes here are typically on the great dividing range.
Any interesting history for the region?
What are the standout bushwalking features?
How do you get there? Include all access points if there are many?
Which maps cover the region?
Where can I stay there? or near there?
See Qld National parks website
Approximately 11kms along the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail. Very exposed, but pleasant walking.
The 19 kilometre Esk to Toogoolawah section of the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail is northwest of Brisbane along the Warrego and Brisbane Valley Highways. This section of the trail travels adjacent to Camp Creek and crosses Cressbrook Creek, a tributary of the Brisbane River, at Toogoolawah. The trail extends through farmland including lucerne, other pasture and small crops that are important to the local economy.
On trail signage indicates classifications between Esk and Toogoolawah. The distance and lack of trail facilities make this section suitable for people with a moderate to high fitness level. There are no drinking water or toilet facilities between Esk and Toogoolawah. Sufficient water must be carried.
For the most part this section of the walk follows beside the Brisbane Valley Highway ie it gets noisy and there really isn't much in the way of shade at all. However, the views are nice looking out towards to the mountains and onto Lowood. Heading in to Lowood you'll meet up with a bend in the Brisbane river with some lovely views downstream, and a large colony of bats making home in the trees. Arriving into Lowood, you'll be rewarded with the first section of actual railway for the trail; Lowood was the original terminus for the BVRT. Lowood has a pub, bakery and nice cafes for refreshments.
I rode this but you are certainly allowed to walk it. A fun and enjoyable ride from Wulkaraka station to Fernvale. Look forward to a delicious thick shake and a pie at the renowned Fernvale bakery! The track is mostly flat and easy to follow. A couple of road crossings.
This first part of the BVRT (Brisbane Valley Rail Trail) is only 3.8kms of very easy walking along paved pathways between residential and bushland. As the name suggests this is along the old Brisbane Valley Railway, the whole trail is approximately 161kms finishing in Yarraman.
There is no direct track, just a heap of different paths, where you can wonder through the conservation area spotting all sorts of wildlife. Especially kangaroos, that are slowly becoming more used to humans, so you can get some really nice photos of some semi wild kangaroos. Otherwise there are koalas and bird life also to enjoy.
A short walk through the mangroves. At the end there is a bird tower that overviews the Coombabah lake.
Well signed trail through the wetland. Concrete surface/ gravel surface. Occasional seating areas. Partly wheel chair friendly.
This trail starts from the upper day-use area and allows visitors to explore Daisy Hill Conservation Park and adjoining Neville Lawrie Reserve. Take time by tranquil waterholes and enjoy views from the old quarry.
Walk past bush play and picnic area along a concrete path and through the paperbark trail loop.