How to explore the rail trails of Queensland

Keen to elevate your standard Sunday cycle? Adding to the state’s expanding offering for cyclists and adventurers, our many Queensland rail trails - old railway lines transformed into recreational tracks - blend history, country vistas and a good workout, whether you’re looking for a multi-day adventure or simply to spend a day exploring a little differently.

Set off on two wheels, two feet – or even horseback – to explore these rail trails across Queensland.

Brisbane Valley Rail Trail

Uncover a new side to country Queensland along Australia's longest recreational rail trail, the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail. The trail follows the old Brisbane Valley Railway line for 161km from Wulkuraka to Yarraman – which was originally built in the 1880s to transport timber, milk and beef to Brisbane and supply towns along the railway line.

Along the journey you’ll discover wild rural landscapes, creek crossings and historic landmarks still standing from the rail days. Well connected by small towns en route, cyclists can choose to do the whole 161km journey or complete a few sections instead.

Ready for the challenge? Out There Cycling can help with shuttles, gear hire and trip planning.

While you’re here, spend a little time exploring Lake Wivenhoe and Somerset.

Suitable for: mountain bikes, horse riding, walking

Kilkivan - Kingaroy Rail Trail

A country escape looks a little different along the Kilkivan to Kingaroy Rail Trail, but there’s still plenty of fresh air, local history to soak up and places to stop for a cuppa. This 89km Queensland rail trail traverses farmland and bushland, and while the Kilkivan to Murgon section is built to basic standard; Murgon to Kingaroy, known as the ‘South Burnett Rail Trail’, has a sealed surface.

This adventure is suitable for multi-day tours, with options for shuttles and tours, and plenty of food and accommodation in towns along the trail. Be sure to call in at some of these foodie favourites.

Suitable for: mountain bikes, touring/hybrid bikes, horse riding, walking

Mt Garnett - Lappa Junction Rail Trail

One for a more intrepid cyclist, this rail trail is worth the sweat.

Your adventure begins 190km south-west of Cairns in Mount Garnet, where savannah landscapes, countryside and remnants of mining history dot the 55km trail to tiny Lappa Junction, home to a small museum and even smaller pub.

It’s worth noting that there is no public transport, no services or mobile reception beyond Mount Garnet: this is a remote trail for experienced, independent riders. Those who take the challenge will have the opportunity to extend the adventure on the weekly Savannahlander train at Lappa – or relax your muscles in the natural Innot Hot Springs near Mount Garnet afterwards.

Suitable for: mountain bikes, walking

Atherton Tablelands Rail Trail

Rolling green hills, home-grown produce stalls and farmers markets dominate the spectacular Atherton Tablelands, but cyclists visiting Cairns & Great Barrier Reef should take advantage of the region’s expanding network of touring, MTB and road cycling trails and hop on the Atherton Tablelands Rail Trail. This 20km, mostly coarse gravel trail links Atherton and Walkamin, and there’s plenty to see along the way – including the Tolga Scrub, a remnant of endangered mabi forest that once covered most of the Atherton Tablelands.

It’s best tackled April-September, when the weather is driest. Trails also lead to the Atherton Forest Mountain Bike Park and Atherton Skills Park.

Suitable for: mountain bikes, touring/hybrid bikes, horse riding, walking

Short and sweet Queensland rail trails 

Looking for a Queensland rail trail that takes just a few hours to complete? We’ve got you covered.

Mary to Bay Rail Trail, Fraser Coast

A fun day out while on a family holiday to Hervey Bay,  this rail trail offers 18km of gravel and sealed surface riding that connects the main centres of the seaside town. If little legs aren’t up for the whole distance, the foreshore trail along the coast from Urangan Pier to Pialba is the most scenic, with plenty of opportunity to stop at local cafes, wander the pier, explore the Botanic Gardens and more.

Suitable for: mountain bikes, touring/hybrid bikes, horse riding, prams, scooters, walking, wheelchairs

Mary Valley Rail Trail, Sunshine Coast

A short 4.5km gravel path that winds through state forest from Imbil to Brooloo, the Mary Valley Rail Trail is your opportunity to take in rural countryside with railway history and heritage, and spot bellbirds and other native animals along the way. Tackle it as an out and back, then refuel at a café in Imbil. While you’re here, why not jump on a historic train? Mary Valley Rattler runs tours throughout the week.

Suitable for: mountain bikes, touring/hybrid bikes, horse riding and walking

Ferny Grove Rail Trail, Brisbane

A 5km sealed surface ride in Brisbane’s north, this is a rail trail any rider can enjoy – though it’s particularly popular with local mountain bikers due to its proximity to the many trails in Brisbane Forest Park and Samford Valley. Accessible from Ferny Grove Railway Station.

Suitable for: mountain bikes, touring/hybrid bikes, horse riding, prams, scooters, walking, wheelchairs

Bundaberg to Gin Gin (Watawa) Rail Trail, Bundaberg

Currently just a 3.4km track from Gin Gin to Tirroan Village, this rail trail will stretch 49km when completed. For now, it’s a great spot to stretch your legs after checking out the heritage listed Gin Gin Historical Village, home to bustling Saturday markets.

Suitable for: mountain bikes, touring/hybrid bikes, horse riding, walking