Skill level accommodated:
- •Intermediate
- •Advanced
For riders curious about stepping beyond the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, the High Country Gravel SQ Weekend (17–19 April) offers a low-stress way to experience South East Queensland’s next gravel frontier, without needing to plan every turn yourself.
Hosted around Crow’s Nest by Southern Queensland Cycle Trails Inc., the weekend showcases some of the best riding across both the Downs Burnett Cycle Trail and High Country Gravel South Queensland, with guided rides designed to suit a range of abilities and appetites for adventure.
The weekend kicks off on Friday evening with a relaxed, social sunset ride. This is a chance for riders arriving from Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast or the Gold Coast to stretch their legs, meet fellow participants and get a feel for the terrain. “It’s up on the ridges to a high point,” says Hugh Wilson from Southern Queensland Cycle Trails Inc. “You stop and watch the sunset, it’s a great way to start.”
Across Saturday and Sunday, riders can choose between shorter and longer ride options each day, allowing participants to tailor the experience to their fitness, confidence and curiosity. Some routes head out along the Downs Burnett Cycle Trail, while others explore the rolling gravel and quiet country roads that define the High Country Gravel network.
Crucially, this isn’t rail trail riding. But it’s also not extreme or intimidating.
“It’s not a rail trail,” Hugh says. “But there’s very few cars, and the ones that are there tend to be locals who give you plenty of room. There’s no battle on the road at all.”
Accommodation options range from pubs and motels to cabins, campgrounds and Airbnbs, and riders are encouraged to stay local, eat local and explore the towns they pass through.
More details are on the event website.
