Boyne Burnett Inland Rail Trail

Stretching 210 kilometres through Queensland’s lush Burnett region, the Boyne Burnett Inland Rail Trail is a multi-use path that follows the historic Gladstone-to-Monto railway line. This epic trail offers cyclists, walkers, and horse riders a journey through undulating farmland, remnant bushland, and heritage towns, with a landscape that shifts from coastal forests to dry eucalypt woodlands. The rail trail is a living museum of Queensland’s railway history, with restored stations, bridges, and tunnels that invite exploration at every turn.

Highlights & What to See

• Heritage Tunnel (No. 4): The longest tunnel on the trail, carved through solid rock, is a cool, atmospheric highlight that feels like stepping back in time.
• Dee River Bridge: A majestic steel-and-timber viaduct spanning the Dee River, perfect for photography and spotting platypuses in the water below.
• Monto Railway Station: The southern terminus, now a museum with railway memorabilia, vintage carriages, and a charming café in the old goods shed.
• Boyne River Crossing: Near the northern end, the trail crosses the Boyne River via a restored bridge, with picnic spots and swimming holes nearby.
• Calliope River Historical Village: A detour to this open-air museum showcases pioneer life, with a blacksmith shop, schoolhouse, and steam engines.
• Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas, and over 150 bird species, including the colourful rainbow bee-eater.

Suggested Time to Spend

Dedicate at least three days to fully experience the trail – two days to cycle the 210 km (or four days to walk), with an overnight stop in Monto or the historic town of Many Peaks. Most travellers break the journey into two 60–70 km days, allowing time to explore side attractions and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a country pub. For a relaxed pace, consider a five-day itinerary with rest days at the heritage-listed Bucca Crossing or the peaceful Boyne River campground.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Gladstone: Gateway to the southern Great Barrier Reef, with island day trips to Heron and Wilson Islands.
• Awoonga Dam: A sprawling reservoir popular for fishing (barramundi) and birdwatching, with walking trails and a campground.
• Kroombit Tops National Park: Rugged escarpments and waterfalls, including the stunning Rainbow Falls, ideal for a day hike.
• Monto: A friendly country town with a heritage walk, art galleries, and the Monto Woodworks.
• Burnett River: Canoeing, fishing, and riverside camping in the fertile Burnett Valley.

Please check official sources for current details.