About The Experience
Experience the most northern stretch of disused rail line from Kilkivan to Kingaroy. Discover 88 kilometres of which the first 45kms Kilkivan to Murgon traverses through scenic rural countryside of undulating farmland and bushland, mostly gravel and dirt with some exposed rock ballast, some rough gully crossings under existing old railway bridges which may have water in them at times and many gates to open. The last 43kms branded the South Burnett Rail Trail is a sealed section from Murgon to Kingaroy wandering through farmland and the rich red soils that the South Burnett is famous for but quite an easy ride. With many small towns along its length, this section of the rail trail is ideal for families.
Your KKRT Self-Guided Cycle Tour starts in Kilkivan and slopes mostly downhill for the trip all the way back to Kingaroy. The trail is Easy to Moderate and is great fun for anyone and everyone.
If you think some of the hills or gullies may challenge you a bit too much, an upgrade to an e-bike could do wonders and help you get through the trail with ease.
Our self-guided cycle tour packages along these Rail Trails offer a variety of accommodation options depending on your preferences. These accommodation choices are all highly rated, comfortable and offer great service and cleanliness. If you prefer more luxury or solitude, please enquire about many of the upgrades including a host of cosy Airbnb cabins and houses. A local bakery or eatery is always just a short walk or ride away.
Enjoy the freedom of our STRESS FREE self-guided cycle tour packages and let us take care of all the logistics – shuttle transfers, accommodation bookings, luggage transfers, premium bike, itinerary, maps and route advice and of course Rail Trail support if required. All you do is jump on a bike and enjoy the ride!
We provide you with a full customised itinerary, outlining where you will be staying, places of interest to see, things to do, places to eat and don’t forget to take as many memorable photos of your Rail Trail Experience.
Brief Itinerary – Driving to Wulkaraka Trail Head – starting at $1350 per person based on twin share
Day 1 – Kilkivan to Murgon (44kms)
The ‘Out There Cycling’ Shuttle bus will pick you up from the Wulkaraka Trail Head (Brisbane Valley Rail Trail Head), along with your bike & luggage. The shuttle leaves promptly at 7am, make sure to be 10-15 mins early to load your bikes & luggage. The shuttle to Kilkivan is approximately a 3-hour drive, and along the way you will pass through some of the towns you will be riding between, so keep a lookout for anything that piques your interest. The views you get from the shuttle are an experience on its own, the journey starts with plains for growing abundances of fruit and vegetables and towards the end of the trip it is very apparent that there is a variety of resources here including agriculture particularly cattle, crop and cereal and timber. The main reason for the creation of the rail trail was to transport all the milled timber from these lands along the rail trail. The timber from this region was used widely in the iconic ‘Queenslander’ style homes. On arrival at Kilkivan you are dropped right on the trail where an old rail station sits. Explore the old station and have a read of all the historical information at the drop off point, then follow the signs and start your adventure along the rail trail. Follow the trail for 29kms to the first town of Goomeri, this section of the trail is not well used and along the way you will have a couple of dismounts but is fairly level riding. On arrival head straight for the famous Goomeri Bakery and try one of their amazing gourmet pies or delicious French slices or pastries. Continue cycling another 15kms to Murgon there a couple of creek and bridge replacement crossings where it is advised to dismount. Murgon is home to a new Museum called 55 Million Years ago, which backs onto the Rail Trail in behind the Murgon Men’s Shed and is a must see. Murgon Motor Inn is just outside of the CBD where you may stay for the night and can enjoy a nice meal with locally inspired dishes at the onsite Water Tower Restaurant along with a cold beer or crisp glass of wine to finish off a long day riding. Murgon derives its name from an Aboriginal word meaning lily pond and is the closest major town to the famous Aboriginal reserve today known as Cherbourg.
Day 2 – Murgon to Kingaroy (44kms)
Murgon to Kingaroy also known as the South Burnett Rail Trail is completely sealed and along the way you experience the beautiful South Burnett countryside of rolling hills overlooking farmlands and view the rich red soil that it is known for. There are several quaint villages and townships along the way. Wondai is just 13.4kms along where there is much to see and do, visit the local art gallery, antique shop and timber museum. Tingoora only 7.9ms boasts the ‘Tinny’ hotel if you want a good yarn and a bite to eat. Wooroolin a short 5.8kms and perfect for avid birdwatchers especially around the wetlands area declared a fauna sanctuary in 1973, you will also find a café and Daisy Poppets Farm Shop a great supporter of local producers in and around the area. Memarambi aboriginal for sugargum tree is a very small and quiet rural town and boasts the most amazing plant & gift shop Memerambi Springs only a very short ride off the Rail Trail. All these country towns have numerous options for food and coffee or something a little stronger should you need it. The last leg of today’s cycling is 11.5kms to the town of Kingaroy, a perfect place to pull up and explore the Peanut Capital which offers a selection of experiences and attractions. There is an abundance of 3-4 star accommodation choices available in Kingaroy for your stopover tonight.
Day 3 – Kingaroy to Yarraman (55kms)
The Link Trail is your mission today, it is what joins the KKRT to the BVRT and the whole journey is recognised by the blue and white bicycle signs along the way. As you leave Kingaroy you will pass the observatory, the airport and a countryside with a more agricultural flavour with the famous red soil appearance great for growing peanuts, navy beans and grain. The first 34km section to Nanango is along old country back roads and when you pass the historical Ringsfield House and the showgrounds you will just about be in the heart of Nanango town, plenty of pubs, cafes, shops and a bakery for you to indulge yourself. On your way out of Nanango you will pass the railway siding in behind the Nanango RSL and head for Yarraman, the first section of the 21kms will be old country back roads before you hit an old stock route with a rough section of 2kms marked by signage and cyclists can dismount if unsure, there is also one creek crossing which is a dry creek for most of they year. As you approach Yarraman you will notice to the beautiful eucalypt (gum) tree country with only the sound of nature to lull your senses. Your overnight accommodation could be the Yarraman Caravan Park or the Y Motel excellent for a good night’s sleep as you hit the halfway mark of your cycling tour.
Day 4 – Yarraman to Linville (42kms)
The main reason for the creation of the rail trail was to transport all the milled timber from these lands along the rail trail. The timber from this region was used widely in the iconic ‘Queenslander’ style homes. Your ride today will start back at the Yarraman Trail Head which you may have seen the afternoon before, there is an old carriage named “The Bomb” that sits at Station Park and if you didn’t get time yesterday you can explore the old carriage and have a read of all the historical information, then follow the signs and start your adventure along the rail trail towards Linville. Follow the trail to the small town of Blackbutt and head straight for the famous Blackbutt Bakery and try one of their amazing gourmet pies or dessert slices. Continue cycling through Benarkin State Forest and admire the great views all while hardly putting a foot on the pedal as this great section meanders down the range towards Linville. Linville is home to a historic railway station and carriages with plenty of information to learn more about the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail. Linville is also home to the Linville Hotel and the Rail Trail Refuge where you may be staying for the night to finish off a long day of riding.
Day 5 – Linville to Esk (54kms)
Today you start off with a short 7km ride to the town of Moore, a great place to grab a coffee and breakfast before heading off on another big day of riding. Not long after leaving Moore you will come across the heritage listed Yimbun Railway Tunnel, being the only tunnel to be constructed on the rail trail it’s a great spot to stop and take some awesome photos. Next you will cycle to the town of Toogoolawah, a perfect place to pull up and have a great lunch. We highly recommend the Groovy Goat Pub Café at the Exchange Hotel for a quality meal. Toogoolawah boasts The Condensery Somerset Regional Gallery producer & presenter of contemporary art exhibitions, programs and activities and is a must see. The last leg of today continues to the town of Esk, a great little town with plenty of quality cafes and shops. The Esk Grand Hotel or the Esk Caravan Park and Motel could be your rest stop for tonight.
Day 6 – Esk to Wulkuraka (67kms)
Leaving the small town of Esk after a good coffee and breakfast, check out the renovated Esk Railway Station as you continue along the now mostly paved cycle path towards Coominya passing by Bellevue Railway Station established in 1886. Continue through the great open plains onto Lowood originally known as The Scrub or Cairn Hill and situated near the banks of the Brisbane River that flows down from the Wivenhoe Dam and then onto Fernvale where you are spoilt for choice when looking for a good lunch – Old Fernvale Bakery, Barbs Kitchen or the Fernvale Hotel. When arriving at Fernvale make sure to text “Out There Cycling” and let them know so we can meet you promptly at the end of your ride with your luggage. Cycle onwards weaving in and out alongside the Brisbane River while also passing the enormous Wivenhoe Dam which is the main source of water throughout the entire Brisbane and Ipswich region. Before finishing up at Wulkuraka Trail Head you will go past original stops or stations with replica station signs of Fairney View, Wanora, Borallon, Pine Mountain and Muirlea. The “Out There Cycling” team will be there waiting to hand over your luggage.
Brief Itinerary – PM Wulkuraka or Airport pickup – starting at $1550 per person based on twin share
Day 1 – Arrive in Kilkivan
We have 2 options – drive/train it to Wulkuraka Trail Head and get a PM pick up or opt for an Airport Transfer to then be transferred to your overnight accommodation in Kilkivan. Trains departing Brisbane to Ipswich are scheduled regularly and have you arriving in Ipswich in about an hour.
Day 2 - Kilkivan to Murgon (44kms)
Your first day of cycling begins opposite the Kilkivan Hotel/Motel where old railway line and a station sits. Explore the old station and have a read of all the historical information and then follow the signs and start your adventure along the rail trail. Follow the trail for 29kms to the first town of Goomeri, this section of the trail is not well used and along the way you will have a couple of dismounts but is fairly level riding. On arrival head straight for the famous Goomeri Bakery and try one of their amazing gourmet pies or delicious French slices or pastries. Continue cycling another 15kms to Murgon there a couple of creek and bridge replacement crossings where it is advised to dismount. Murgon is home to a new Museum called 55 Million Years ago, which backs onto the Rail Trail in behind the Murgon Men’s Shed and is a must see. Murgon Motor Inn is just outside of the CBD where you may stay for the night and can enjoy a nice meal with locally inspired dishes at the onsite Water Tower Restaurant along with a cold beer or crisp glass of wine to finish off a long day riding. Murgon derives its name from an Aboriginal word meaning lily pond and is the closest major town to the famous Aboriginal reserve today known as Cherbourg.
Day 3 – Murgon to Kingaroy (44kms)
Murgon to Kingaroy also known as the South Burnett Rail Trail is completely sealed and along the way you experience the beautiful South Burnett countryside of rolling hills overlooking farmlands and view the rich red soil that it is known for. There are several quaint villages and townships along the way. Wondai is just 13.4kms along where there is much to see and do, visit the local art gallery, antique shop and timber museum. Tingoora only 7.9ms boasts the ‘Tinny’ hotel if you want a good yarn and a bite to eat. Wooroolin a short 5.8kms and perfect for avid birdwatchers especially around the wetlands area declared a fauna sanctuary in 1973, you will also find a café and Daisy Poppets Farm Shop a great supporter of local producers in and around the area. Memarambi aboriginal for sugargum tree is a very small and quiet rural town and boasts the most amazing plant & gift shop Memerambi Springs only a very short ride off the Rail Trail. All these country towns have numerous options for food and coffee or something a little stronger should you need it. The last leg of today’s cycling is 11.5kms to the town of Kingaroy, a perfect place to pull up and explore the Peanut Capital which offers a selection of experiences and attractions. There is an abundance of 3–4-star accommodation choices available in Kingaroy for your stopover tonight.
Day 4 – Kingaroy to Yarraman (55kms)
The Link Trail is your mission today, it is what joins the KKRT to the BVRT and the whole journey is recognised by the blue and white bicycle signs along the way. As you leave Kingaroy you will pass the observatory, the airport and a countryside with a more agricultural flavour with the famous red soil appearance great for growing peanuts, navy beans and grain. The first 34km section to Nanango is along old country back roads and when you pass the historical Ringsfield House and the showgrounds you will just about be in the heart of Nanango town, plenty of pubs, cafes, shops and a bakery for you to indulge yourself. On your way out of Nanango you will pass the railway siding in behind the Nanango RSL and head for Yarraman, the first section of the 21kms will be old country back roads before you hit an old stock route with a rough section of 2kms marked by signage and cyclists can dismount if unsure, there is also one creek crossing which is a dry creek for most of they year. As you approach Yarraman you will notice to the beautiful eucalypt (gum) tree country with only the sound of nature to lull your senses. Your overnight accommodation could be the Yarraman Caravan Park or the Y Motel excellent for a good night’s sleep as you hit the halfway mark of your cycling tour.
Day 5 – Yarraman to Linville (42kms)
The main reason for the creation of the rail trail was to transport all the milled timber from these lands along the rail trail. The timber from this region was used widely in the iconic ‘Queenslander’ style homes. Your ride today will start back at the Yarraman Trail Head which you may have seen the afternoon before, there is an old carriage named “The Bomb” that sits at Station Park and if you didn’t get time yesterday you can explore the old carriage and have a read of all the historical information, then follow the signs and start your adventure along the rail trail towards Linville. Follow the trail to the small town of Blackbutt and head straight for the famous Blackbutt Bakery and try one of their amazing gourmet pies or dessert slices. Continue cycling through Benarkin State Forest and admire the great views all while hardly putting a foot on the pedal as this great section meanders down the range towards Linville. Linville is home to a historic railway station and carriages with plenty of information to learn more about the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail. Linville is also home to the Linville Hotel and the Rail Trail Refuge where you may be staying for the night to finish off a long day of riding.
Day 6 – Linville to Esk (54kms)
Today you start off with a short 7km ride to the town of Moore, a great place to grab a coffee and breakfast before heading off on another big day of riding. Not long after leaving Moore you will come across the heritage listed Yimbun Railway Tunnel, being the only tunnel to be constructed on the rail trail it’s a great spot to stop and take some awesome photos. Next you will cycle to the town of Toogoolawah, a perfect place to pull up and have a great lunch. We highly recommend the Groovy Goat Pub Café at the Exchange Hotel for a quality meal. Toogoolawah boasts The Condensery Somerset Regional Gallery producer & presenter of contemporary art exhibitions, programs and activities and is a must see. The last leg of today continues to the town of Esk, a great little town with plenty of quality cafes and shops. The Esk Grand Hotel or the Esk Caravan Park and Motel could be your rest stop for tonight.
Day 7 – Esk to Wulkuraka (67kms)
Leaving the small town of Esk after a good coffee and breakfast, check out the renovated Esk Railway Station as you continue along the now mostly paved cycle path towards Coominya passing by Bellevue Railway Station established in 1886. Continue through the great open plains onto Lowood originally known as The Scrub or Cairn Hill and situated near the banks of the Brisbane River that flows down from the Wivenhoe Dam and then onto Fernvale where you are spoilt for choice when looking for a good lunch – Old Fernvale Bakery, Barbs Kitchen or the Fernvale Hotel. When arriving at Fernvale make sure to text “Out There Cycling” and let them know so we can meet you promptly at the end of your ride with your luggage. Cycle onwards weaving in and out alongside the Brisbane River while also passing the enormous Wivenhoe Dam which is the main source of water throughout the entire Brisbane and Ipswich region. Before finishing up at Wulkuraka Trail Head you will go past original stops or stations with replica station signs of Fairney View, Wanora, Borallon, Pine Mountain and Muirlea. The “Out There Cycling” team will be there waiting to hand over your luggage.
Inclusions
Inclusions
- Accommodation for 5-6 nights depending on package
- Transfer Wulkuraka Trail Head to Kilkivan
- Mountain Bike hire with helmet, lock, hand pump, water bottle holder, single pannier and repair kit (e-bike upgrade is available on request)
- Bike Collection
- Luggage Transfer between overnight accommodation
- Detailed Itinerary, Interactive Map and Route Notes
Not Included
- Airport transfers (unless by prior arrangement)
- Accommodation Before or After the trip
- Travel Insurance (not compulsory but highly recommended)
- Meals unless otherwise specified
- Additional Bike Accessories or upgrade to an E-bike
Accommodation
Hire Bike Information
Standard Mountain Bike
Our standard mountain bike is a Specialized Rockhopper Comp 27.5 arguably the best hardtail mountain bike in its category, this mountain bike is well suited to all sections of the BVRT and KKRT. We ensure that a specialised fitting service is included so you always get the perfect fit for you.
For more Information: https://www.specialized.com/au/en/rockhopper-comp-275/p/199587?color=319807-199587
Electric Mountain Bike
Our electric mountain bike is a Specialized Tero Turbo 3.0 it has the range and power to get you through the day with ease. A single charge will get you through the day until you reach your stay for the night where you will be able to recharge ready for the next day. A specialised fitting service from the bike hire service is included so you always get the perfect fit for you.
For more Information: https://www.specialized.com/au/en/turbo-tero-30-step-through/p/199862?color=320659-199862
Electric Step Through Mountain Bike
Our electric step through bike is a Specialized Turbo Como 3.0 also with the range and power to get you through the day with ease. The unique step through design allows riders with low mobility to mount the bike with ease, barely lifting a leg. A single charge will get you through the day until you reach your stay for the night where you will be able to recharge ready for the next day. A specialised fitting service from the bike hire service is included so you always get the perfect fit for you.
For more Information on product details: https://www.specialized.com/au/en/turbo-como-30/p/206181?color=348321-206181