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Cycle the Kingaroy to Kilkivan Rail Trail
At 161km, the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail is Australia's longest rail trail. However, even this isn't enough for travellers who want to continue exploring the delights of country Queensland. This has led to an optional extension to include the Kingaroy to Kilkivan Rail Trail. The full length of the epic combined
Brisbane Valley and Kilkivan Rail Trail Self-Guided Tour is 315km and can be completed in 8 days.
Keep reading to find some commonly asked questions about the Kingaroy to Kilkivan Rail Trail.
How long is the Kingaroy to Kilkivan Rail Trail?
The Kingaroy to Kilkivan Rail Trail is 90km.
What is the South Burnett Rail Trail?
The South Burnett Rail Trail is a section of the greater Kingaroy to Kilkivan Rail Trail. There is a passionate community group called the South Burnett Rail Trail Users Association, which is a not-for-profit group that promotes the use of the rail trail and its future enhancement and expansion.
What are the cycling conditions on the Kingaroy to Kilkivan Rail Trail?
The 90km Kingaroy to Kilkivan Rail Trail passes through two councils and each section has a distinct feel. The first half, from Kingaroy to Murgon, is governed by the South Burnett Council. This is also known as the South Burnett Rail Trail. It features easy pedalling along a well-maintained path, which is actually Queensland's longest sealed rail trail at 44km.
The second half, from Murgon to Kilkivan, offers a few more thrills with gravel terrain and small creeks to be crossed (the Gympie Regional Council has promised to build a bridge!).
What towns does the Kingaroy to Kilkivan Rail Trail pass?
The starting point is the Kingaroy Railway Station. The trail then goes through Goomeri, Murgon, Wondai, Tingoora, Wooroolin, Memerambi and Crawford, before concluding at Kilkivan Railway Station. On the
Brisbane Valley & Kilkivan Rail Trail Self-Guided Cycle tour, the overnight stays are in Nanango (the town before the rail trail), Wondai and Kilkivan.
What are the highlights of the Kingaroy to Kilkivan Rail Trail?
Cycling the Kingaroy to Kilkivan Rail Trail is a great way to become immersed in the laidback atmosphere of rural Queensland. Besides the heritage-listed pubs and churches, friendly locals, disused railway stations and regional produce, you can also see the following attractions.
Kingaroy is famous for its peanut production - it's why it's known as Australia's Peanut Capital. As you cycle into the town, you won't miss the gigantic peanut silos. It's essential to stop by the famous
Peanut Van to try some of these local delicacies (their peanut brittle makes for a great cycling snack!).
There's a nightly show that's free for all in Kingaroy. Due to the limited light pollution, on clear nights the light spectacle in the sky is incredible to witness. For a closer inspection, book a visit to the
Kingaroy Observatory.
The small town of Goomeri is known for its annual pumpkin festival in May. Outside of this, the quiet country town punches above its size when it comes to gourmet produce and you can taste cheeses, wines, and (of course) pumpkins.
Which direction is the best to cycle the Kingaroy to Kilkivan Rail Trail?
How can I cycle the Kingaroy to Kilkivan Rail Trail?
The first half of the itinerary follows the popular Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, from Wulkuraka to Yarraman. Upon reaching the endpoint in Yarraman, you connect the two distinct trails via the aptly named Link Trail, a 56km route that overnights in the country town of Nanango.
From Nanango, you'll cycle to the start of the Kingaroy to Kilkivan Rail Trail at Kingaroy, and then continue on until the final destination at Kilkivan Railway Station. This is an amazing cycle journey of over 300 kilometres.
Do you want to cycle the Kingaroy to Kilkivan Rail Trail? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.