Scenic Yarrabilba Loop

Long Ride

Type: Road & Gravel
Difficulty: Medium – Advance
Distance: 173.40km
Elevation Gained: 1,897m
Estimated Moving Time: 6-8 hours

Summary

Scenic Yarrabilba Loop: Brisbane’s Long Ride with a Gravel Twist

If you’re looking for a weekend long ride from Brisbane that mixes smooth tarmac, light gravel, and scenic countryside, the Scenic Yarrabilba Loop is one of the best options out there. Covering 170km with over 1,800m of elevation, this route offers a bit of everything: fast road sections, quiet rural roads, a short gravel highlight, and a good coffee stop along the way.

Route Breakdown

Brisbane → Greenbank via Springfield
The ride starts in the city and heads southwest through Springfield. Expect fast-rolling hills along Springfield Greenbank Arterial — a great warm-up stretch.

Greenbank → Flagstone (via Teviot Rd)
Slightly rolling terrain continues as you make your way to Flagstone. This section is mostly flat and fast.

Stop at Flagstone Servo
Perfect refuel point before entering the more scenic part of the ride.

Flagstone → Scenic Rim (via Gould Hill Rd)
Here’s where the magic begins. As you leave suburbia behind, rural Queensland opens up—rolling ranges, open fields, and quiet country roads.

Gravel Segment (Gould Hill Rd)
A hidden gem: just under 4km of hard-packed, undulating gravel. It’s scenic, peaceful, and road-bike friendly. Expect a few potholes, but nothing too tricky.

Beaudesert Beenleigh Rd → Tamborine
The only downside of the route. This 8km stretch is busy, narrow, and has a rough bike lane. Ride cautiously and give way to traffic.

Tamborine → Yarrabilba
From Tamborine, take Waterford Tamborine Rd—a fast and flatter road compared to the previous stretch. Less traffic too. Great for picking up the pace.

Coffee Stop: Yarrabilba
Plenty of cafes here to choose from. A good place to recharge before heading home.

Yarrabilba → Yatala (via Quinzeh Creek Rd)
Another highlight. Rolling, tree-lined roads with light traffic. Enjoy the shade and gentle undulations.

Return to Brisbane via Yatala Service Road
Follow the standard Gold Coast-to-Brisbane route home. A familiar stretch for many local cyclists.

Things to Know Before You Go

Early start recommended: Helps you avoid peak traffic times, especially on busier roads.
Gravel is road bike friendly: Just keep an eye out for potholes.
Traffic alert: Beaudesert Beenleigh Rd can be sketchy. Ride single file and stay visible.

Final Thoughts

The Scenic Yarrabilba Loop is a rewarding challenge with a bit of everything—rolling roads, scenic views, and a short gravel adventure. While not every section is perfect, the variety keeps things interesting. Just plan ahead, ride safe, and enjoy one of Brisbane’s most underrated long loops.