Linville to Nanango Gravel Loop

Route length: 126.3km

Surface type: Gravel rail trail, gravel, road and double track

Suitable for: intermediate and advanced riders

Gravel difficulty: moderate in sections. Very good surface for majority.

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The Brisbane Valley Rail Trail has become well-known as a safe, off-road route with very few technical challenges for most riders. While thousands of riders tackle some or part of the rail trail every year, not everyone knows how many great bike rides exist that use part of the BVRT along with back roads, old stock routes and other trails. The northern end of the rail is brimming with opportunities for different rides and opens the door to longer, adventurous routes as well.

The Linville – Nanango loop is one such ride. It’s not technically demanding, but at 126.7km with 1790m of climbing – it is a ride suited to experienced gravel riders. Or better yet – those who want to do a rewarding 2 day route, and either camp or book a hotel in Nanango.

The ride

Starting from Linville, follow the BVRT towards Benarkin and then Blackbutt. The climbs has a few gullies but is mostly very consistent at a gentle gradient. Blackbutt is the last spot to top up on water or food before Nanango – so fill up! About 2km before the trail ends at Yarraman, take the right hand turn towards the Link Trail. This 2WD dirt road leads to a left hand turn on Din Din Road, with a bike sign for Nanango. This section is champagne gravel – but it is an open road so pay attention. The route does get more rugged as it becomes old Yarraman Road, descending to and crossing Yarraman Creek. Don’t attempt this route after heavy rain!

This road takes a steady climb out of the water crossing, through classic Queensland country. Follow this road towards Nanango, turning right onto Burnett St and left onto Drayton St to end up right in Nanango for food and drink – and lodgings if you’re staying the night.

The ride out of Nanango is straight forward, heading east on Drayton St and then left onto Mount Stanley Rd. This will be marked as the NAN1, one of three marked routes in the area thanks to David Kenny. Slowly but surely you gain elevation as you turn onto Bullcamp Rd, although in time the climbs become pinch climbs, on a narrow bitumen road that takes you to 530m – the ride’s high point.

A fast descent down River Rd links together narrow corners and high speeds, ending on a dirt road in the valley near the start of the Brisbane River. With just under 40km to go, you have nearly that many river crossings. With causeways to cross the river, recent rainfall will dictate how wet your feet get!

The dirt road becomes bitumen and while the kilometres tick by pretty well, you may note that as a one day ride the last stretch drags on. Despite running downhill to Linville, there are a couple of climbs that are cruel on tired legs to get into Linville, with a quick run towards the hotel to round of the ride.

This is a classic loop to ride in this area – perfect for a gravel bike, fine on a mountain bike (if not slow to finish) and totally unsuitable for a road bike. You are fairly isolated at times do it’s best done with friends, and with a few essentials like a first aid kit and essential spares.

The Linville Hotel is a well-placed option for a meal once you finish your ride – or for accommodation before or afterwards. There is free camping plus amenities over the road, right on the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail.

Linville also has a small general store, and some great bike specific accommodation at the Rail Trail Refuge: https://railtrailrefuge.com.au/