QueenslandRail trails

Queensland's headline ride is the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, about 161 km from Wulkuraka near Ipswich to Yarraman, and the longest rail trail in the country. It is the obvious choice for a first multi-day trip: the surface is mostly compacted gravel, the climbing is gradual, and the string of towns — Fernvale, Esk, Toogoolawah, Linville, Blackbutt — sit at comfortable daily intervals with pubs, showgrounds and cafes.

Beyond the Brisbane Valley there are shorter trails in the Burnett and coastal hinterland, with new sections opening as old branch lines are converted. Heat and water carrying matter more here than gradients, and long stretches sit in open country with little shade.

Best time to ride: April to September; summer brings heat, storms and humidity.