2024 Discover Ipswich Visitor Guide

Hike the White Rock – Spring Mountain Conservation Estate With views to Brisbane city on one side and South Stradbroke Island on another, the walk up to the Gunpit Ridge or Main Range Lookout at White Rock – Spring Mountain Conservation Estate is very rewarding. Covering 2,633ha this is Ipswich’s most popular hiking spot and it is easy to see why. There have also been 138 species of birds found in the estate. The site is culturally significant to the Traditional Owners and White Rock itself is protected under the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2003 (QLD) , making climbing prohibited. Look out for guided hikes that are held monthly in season, weather permitting.

Ride the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail Wulkuraka in Ipswich is the official starting point of the 161km Brisbane Valley Rail Trail . There are dedicated accommodation venues along the trail that regularly service cyclists, tours with shuttle transfer services and even the option to ride your horse! Come and see why thousands head off on a rail trail adventure every year to take in all the countryside has to offer.

Soak up the fun in Flinders-Goolman Conservation Estate The Flinders-Goolman Conservation Estate covers 2,200ha and is home to Hardings Paddock Campground . Flinders-Goolman is popular for a wide range of activities including bushwalking, horse riding, mountain biking (bring your own horse or bike), birdwatching and cultural elements with yarning circles, a Kupmurri cooking area and bush tucker trail. Hardings Paddock Campground is the perfect location for a getaway. Surrounded by natural bushland, there are just eight camping sites available to add to the feeling of seclusion. You can even bring your horse to ride the trails, with holding yards on site.

Spend some time at Purga Nature Reserve The Purga Nature Reserve has the largest protected remnant of Swamp Tea-tree in Australia. The site is also culturally significant to the Traditional Owners due to the Swamp Tea- tree being used for medicinal purposes and its connection to the former Purga Mission. Visitors can enjoy an easy stroll along the wheelchair friendly boardwalk to take in the natural sights and sounds of this 140ha reserve. With an array of wildlife, including a koala population, the site is also the perfect location for bird spotting.

Attend Sustainable Ipswich events and activities

The Sustainable Ipswich program is an annual celebration that aims to inspire and encourage people to implement new sustainability actions into their everyday lives. Held in October, there are events being planned that eco-conscious visitors can attend including, open garden trails, workshops and native plant sales.

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