The BVRT (Brisbane Valley Rail Trail) is one of our go-to weekend or day trip bike rides. Reputedly the longest rail trail in Australia at 161 km, starting at Wulkuraka near Ipswich and heading up the range to Yarraman. Close enough for a day trip from Brisbane, but with hotel/ motel or camping options in the towns along the trail.
Blackbutt Showgrounds camping ground
We have ridden it many different directions but for those wanting to do the whole BVRT, recommend starting at Yarraman and heading down the range towards Wulkuraka.
The trail is well signed and easy to follow
There are small villages along the route with bakery or dining options.
Food and rest stops along the BVRT
Esk has become a defacto centre for the trail, with food, bike and motel options here.
Heritage log railway bridge
Old stations have been retained
Some of the heritage railway infrastructure remains include log bridges and railway sidings.
Near the start at Yarraman
Recommended sections:
Linville up the range through Bernarkin State Forest to Blackbutt, then return down the long descent.
Esk to Fernvale or Fernvale to Esk over Mount Hallen
Blackbutt to Yarraman and return loop.
All the trail is good, these are just our favourites. It can be ridden any time of the year, best from autumn to spring when the SE Queensland weather is glorious.
Bernarking State Forest 24hr camping ground.