The best cycling routes in Benarkin State Forest

Benarkin State Forest offers a selection of 6 touring cycling routes, catering to various skill levels. Most routes are rated as moderate, with one challenging option for experienced riders.

The routes traverse diverse landscapes, including lush rainforests, extensive hoop pine plantations, and eucalypt forests with towering blackbutt and ironbark trees. You'll find a mix of established trails, logging tracks, and segments of the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail and Bicentennial National Trail. Some routes feature unpaved sections.

Benarkin State Forest is generally pleasant for cycling outside of the hottest summer months. Spring and autumn offer milder temperatures and comfortable conditions for exploring the forest's diverse ecosystems. Always check local weather forecasts before your ride.

While the listed routes are primarily moderate to difficult, the extensive network of logging and service tracks within the forest can offer easier, flatter sections suitable for families. These tracks provide a gentler introduction to the forest environment, though they may not be specifically designated family trails. Always assess the conditions and your family's capabilities before setting out.

Dogs are permitted in Benarkin State Forest, but must be kept on a leash at all times. Specifically, the Clancys camping area is pet-friendly, which can be a good base for exploring. Always ensure your dog is under control and respect wildlife and other visitors.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Benarkin State Forest are designed as loops. For example, the Benarkin Railway Shrine – Linville Hotel loop from Blackbutt and the Roy Emerson Museum – Cooyar Creek Crossing loop from Blackbutt are popular circular options that allow you to start and finish in the same location.

For a more challenging ride, consider the Linville Hotel – Benarkin Railway Shrine loop from Linville. This route spans 42.6 miles (68.5 km) and is rated as difficult, often taking over 6 hours to complete, leading through extensive hoop pine plantations.

Parking is available at the designated camping areas, Clancys and Emu Creek, which offer large, open grassy sites. These areas are well-maintained and provide facilities, making them convenient starting points for your cycling adventures. You can find more information about these facilities on the Queensland Parks and Forests website.

Direct public transport options to Benarkin State Forest are limited. Visitors typically access the forest by private vehicle, often via the D'Aguilar Highway. It's advisable to plan your journey with personal transport for the most convenient access to the cycling routes.

While specific viewpoints aren't explicitly marked on all routes, the forest itself is a major attraction. You'll cycle through diverse ecosystems, including lush rainforests and eucalypt forests. The inviting waters of Emu Creek meander through the forest, offering picturesque flats and opportunities for platypus spotting in its permanent pools. The forest also supports a rich array of wildlife, making for an immersive natural experience.

Benarkin State Forest offers two well-maintained camping areas: Clancys and Emu Creek. Both provide large, open grassy sites suitable for tents, caravans, and motorhomes, with amenities like barbecues, flushing toilets, and tap water (which should be treated before drinking). Clancys is also pet-friendly. For more details on camping, visit the Emu Creek camping page on the Queensland Parks and Forests website.

The touring cycling routes in Benarkin State Forest are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 20 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse forest ecosystems, the quiet natural environment, and the variety of trails that cater to different preferences, from established paths to logging tracks.

Generally, permits are not required for cycling on designated trails and tracks within Benarkin State Forest. However, if you plan to camp, permits are required for both Clancys and Emu Creek camping areas. You can book these through the Queensland Parks and Forests website.