Gravel cracking under your wheels, birds chirping and wind whistling through leafy gums; if any of this is music to your ears than the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail is calling.
Spanning 161km, from Yarraman near Blackbutt to Wulkuraka just north of Ipswich, the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail is the longest of its kind in Australia.
Now, unless you are a cycling extraordinaire, 161km in one day is just not happening. I opted to taste-test a 35km section of the track from Linville to Toogoolawah.
Before hitting the trail, I stopped at 99 Bikes to take advantage of RACQ’s Member Benefits discounts.
A saddle bag, spare tubes and a couple of water bottles later, I was geared up and en route with my mountain bike mounted on the back of my car.
Whether you start in Linville or pass through it, one of its biggest drawcards is its pub – the Linville Hotel.
It was first known as the Moorabool Hotel and originally located further south, between Harlin and Toogoolawah. In 1911, the pub was moved north to Linville by a bullock team when the railhead was extended.
Its fascinating history aside, the Linville Hotel also boasts delicious meals and live music if you time your visit right.
Brisbane Valley Rail Trail.
Photo TEQ.
Photo TEQ.
Another big reason I chose to ride this section of the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail was to pass through the historic Yimbun Railway Tunnel.
Built in 1910, it’s the only tunnel on the trail and is an almost eery experience.
As I pedalled through, the cold air and darkness washed over me, prompting me to reflect on all the men and women who not only built the structure, but travelled through it over the past 113 years.
After a glorious 35km of blue skies, bush, history and wildlife, I dismounted at Toogoolawah, ending the trip with picnic from the Picnic Society; don’t leave without trying a quiche.
Just like the original railway, the repurposed Brisbane Valley Rail Trail brings life to these quirky Queensland towns.
It’s a tourism lifeline and an amazing way to explore this unique region.
Tristan’s top trail tips
- Park your car in the town where you plan on finishing your ride and book a shuttle through ‘Out There Cycling’ to drop you and your bike at your starting point.
- Ride from north to south as this is generally downhill.
- Book your lunch box with Picnic Society in Toogoolawah 48 hours in advance.
- If you’re worried your two wheels failing you on your ride, RACQ Roadside Assistance now covers bikes and mobility devices through its ‘Everyday Lite’ offering. Bike and mobility device cover is also now standard inclusion for members with premium roadside assistance products. Head to racq.com/roadside for terms, conditions, and extra information.