Best bushwalking trails in the Moreton Bay Region

THE COOLER weather is perfect for a stroll through the bush and there are dozens of walks to explore in this part of the world. Here are five of our favourites.

There are plenty of great bushwalking trails in the Moreton Bay Region. Photo: Dominika Lis

THE COOLER weather is perfect for a stroll through the bush and there are dozens of walks to explore in this part of the world.

Here are just five hiking trails across the region to provide the inspiration to get fit and out and about in our beautiful area this winter.

1 Bunyaville Conservation Park

The Tree Discovery Circuit (650m return) is a class 3 track, according to Australian standards, and features a boardwalk from which you can take in some stunning eucalypt trees. Bunyaville Track (1.6km return) is also off the day-use area and is a great option for bird watchers.

2 Godwin Beach Environmental Reserve

The reserve is opposite Bribie Island at Sandstone Point. The intermediate track (3km) is off limits to dogs, so leave your pooch at home. Make sure you take a map as some of the walking trails may not have signage.

3 Samford Conservation Park

The main entrance is off Samford Rd and the Ironbark Gully picnic area is a great place to start your walk. The Crebra Circuit (900m) takes about 20-30 minutes to complete. There are another four tracks in the park for hiking, ranging from 400-1170m. Horses, bicycles and mountain bikes are also allowed on some tracks.

4 Sheepstation Creek Conservation Park

The park is at Morayfield, with several access points including off Phelps, McLoughlin, Williamson or Mackney roads. There are three easy walking circuits. The Grey Gum Circuit is a 4.4km loop, which is suitable for walkers and horse riders. The Spotted Gum Trail is a 1.2km one-way track and Ironbark Ridge Trail, off McLoughlin Rd, is a 1.1km one-way track for walkers only.

5 Lake Samsonvale —Bullocky Rest

This one is at beautiful Lake Samsonvale, which is teeming with birdlife. The walking trail (8.5km return) in this area links the picnic areas of Bullocky Rest and Forgan Cove, and is for intermediate walkers.

Going for a bushwalk is a great way to get fit, clear your head and enjoy nature. Photo: Dominika Lis

Brisbane Bushwalkers Club vice-president Stephen Simpson lives near Bunyaville Conservation Park and knows it well.

“It’s good variety — it’s got steep hills, flat valleys and creeks,” Stephen says.

“It’s handy. You can do it in an afternoon. We also do night walks there with groups.”

He says being part of a club is a great way to learn more about bushwalking.

“You get to meet like-minded people. It’s a great break from work. It’s a good way to clear your head and enjoy nature.”

Get out and explore the Moreton Bay Region. Photo: Dominika Lis

BUSHWALKING TIPS

1. Have a plan and let someone know what you’re doing in case you get in strife

2. Try to walk with other people so if you hurt yourself there is someone there to help

3. Wear good shoes/boots and socks

4. Take water and food, even if you’re walking in winter

5. Take a small first aid kit, hat and small backpack

For more great hikes and walking trails, head to visitmoretonbayregion.com.au