Beaudesert Fingers

Epic Scenic Ride

Type: Road & Gravel
Difficulty: Medium – Advance
Distance: 160.46km
Elevation Gained: 1,731m
Estimated Moving Time: 5-7 hours

Summary

Scenic Cycling Route: Beaudesert Loop – Explore the Hidden Gems of the Scenic Rim, Queensland

Looking for one of the best scenic bike rides near Brisbane? The Beaudesert Loop is a must-do cycling route for riders seeking a blend of quiet country roads, gravel sections, rolling hills, and breathtaking views—all just 1 hour and 10 minutes from Brisbane City. Nestled in the heart of the Scenic Rim region of Queensland, this ride combines varied terrain, beautiful landscapes, and a handful of rewarding climbs.

Ride Overview

Beaudesert to Kooralbyn via Sandy Creek Road
From Jubilee Park, head towards Beaudesert–Boonah Road. While this road can carry truck traffic, it’s generally quiet in the early morning. Turn off onto Sandy Creek Road, where the ride truly begins to shine.
Enjoy a peaceful 10 km stretch through rural back roads, including a manageable hard-packed gravel section that’s road bike-friendly. The route briefly connects to the Mt Lindesay Highway before turning onto Kooralbyn Road.

Kooralbyn “First Finger”

Ride into Kooralbyn Valley via a 12 km no-through road with gentle undulations and picturesque surroundings. This part feels like a hidden version of Brisbane’s “Brookfield Fingers”—out-and-back style, with a fast return descent.

Cafe Stop #1: Tamrookum Roadhouse

Located just off the Mt Lindesay Highway, you’ll see a “coffee” sign. This local servo-style cafe offers coffee and light snacks—a great refuel point before tackling the next leg.

3. Oaky Scrub Gravel Section

Rejoin the loop via Innisplain Road, leading into Oaky Scrub Road—a beautiful 3 km gravel section that’s surprisingly quiet and scenic. The surface is compact and manageable for most road cyclists.

4. Chinghee Creek “Second Finger”

Another peaceful out-and-back road featuring a slight false flat and gentle climbing at the end. Minimal traffic and serene surroundings make this a relaxing segment.

5. Christmas Creek “Third Finger”

Ride 9 km into the lush Christmas Creek valley, passing several creek crossings. The combination of rolling hills, overhanging trees, and quiet roads make this one of the most beautiful sections of the route.

Cafe Stop #2: Christmas Creek Cafe

A small, local cafe perfect for a proper meal. Popular dishes include chicken schnitzel, a breakfast burger, and a giant burger for those needing serious calories. Friendly service and a great stop before the toughest climb of the ride.

6. Hillview Climb (The Wall)

Prepare for a challenge. The Hillview Climb is a brutal 1 km ascent with gradients ranging from 11% to a punishing 20%. After 110 km of rolling terrain, this segment demands stamina and grit. Definitely the “spicy” part of the ride.

7. Kerry Road “Fourth Finger”

The final out-and-back leg follows the same rolling profile as the earlier “fingers”—peaceful, remote, and scenic. It’s a fitting end before the gentle return toward Beaudesert.

Return to Beaudesert

The return leg features undulating terrain—definitely not flat, but very rideable. It’s a nice cool-down stretch after the challenging climb and finger segments.

Final Thoughts: Why This Is One of the Best Bike Rides Near Brisbane

The Beaudesert Scenic Rim loop is a hidden gem for cyclists in Queensland. With a mix of tarmac, gravel, creek crossings, rural backroads, and epic views, it offers an unforgettable day on the bike. While not overly mountainous, the constant rolling hills and the notorious Hillview Climb add a satisfying challenge.

Things to Know Before You Ride:

Mobile Signal: Limited to no reception in many areas—bring a GPS or offline maps.
Food Stops: Sparse—Tamrookum and Christmas Creek Cafe are your only reliable options.
Equipment: Bring plenty of water, spare tubes, and snacks. Road bikes are fine, but wide tires (28mm+) help on the gravel.

Beaudesert Fingers

Summary

Ride Overview

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