3.8
(14)
617
riders
14
rides
Mountain bike trails in Brian Burke Nature Reserve are found within a natural setting characterized by eucalypt forest and varied terrain. While the reserve itself is primarily known for general cycling and walking, the broader area offers a network of mountain bike routes. These routes often utilize fire trails and vehicle tracks, providing connections through the landscape. The region features moderate climbs and offers views over Samford Valley.
Last updated: July 9, 2026
16
riders
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

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6
riders
15.1km
00:58
180m
180m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
36.3km
02:58
550m
550m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
85
riders
Hard mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
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Samford Conservation Park protects a large area of open ironbark forest and shared bush trails on Brisbane’s northwestern fringe, popular with walkers, mountain bikers, trail runners, and horse riders. Ironbark Gully is the main day-use area, with picnic shelters, toilets, barbecues, drinking water, and access to several loop tracks through the reserve. The park is especially popular for fitness walks thanks to its rolling hills, wide gravel trails, and long shaded sections beneath the gums.
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Samford Conservation Park includes a network of shared and specialised trails, with the main walking route being the Crebra Circuit—a short 900-metre Grade 3 loop that winds through ironbark forest from the Ironbark Gully picnic area. Beyond this, a more expansive system of multi-use trails (shared by walkers, horse riders, and cyclists) connects fire roads and forest tracks across the park, ideal for an extended walk with plenty of varied route options. There are also multiple designated mountain-bike-only trails, including Kombi, Bandicoot, and Sunset, offering purpose-built downhill and intermediate-to-difficult riding experiences within the park’s wider trail network.
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Samford Conservation Park is a beautiful bushland reserve near the rural township of Samford Valley northwest of Brisbane. The park protects eucalypt forest and creek habitats that support native wildlife, including wallabies, koalas, and a variety of bird species, while also preserving part of the area’s natural catchment. There is a network of walking and cycling tracks and fire trails throughout the grounds, where you can explore the park’s ridgelines and gullies, making it an ideal location for quiet nature-based recreation close to the city.
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Bellbird Grove is a popular picnic and recreation area within Brisbane Forest Park, nestled along Cedar Creek and surrounded by eucalypt forest. There are barbecues, shelters, toilets, and open grassy spaces, making it an ideal base for short walks and family outings. It’s also a trailhead for several walking tracks, with lots of birdlife, including whipbirds, cockatoos, and wonga pigeons. While you’re here, be sure to listen for the distinctive call of Bell Miners (or bellbirds), which call this area home.
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Fairly steep descent that is best for full suspension or cautious hardtails. Remember to pull up before the creek at the bottom.
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I’d suggest going around on the road but this is doable, with descending experience.
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There are 17 mountain bike routes recorded in the Brian Burke Nature Reserve area on komoot. These trails offer a variety of experiences, from easy loops to more challenging descents.
Yes, the area offers several easy mountain bike trails. For instance, the Latin Shack Cafe loop from Samford Valley is an easy 27.2 km route that explores the local area. Another good option is the Maureen Lawrence Park loop from Ferny Grove, which is 15.1 km and also rated easy.
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Steep Dirt Descent loop from Samford Conservation Park is a difficult 22.9 km path featuring significant elevation gain and demanding descents. This route is ideal for those looking for a more intense ride.
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes in the area are circular. Examples include the Latin Shack Cafe loop from Samford Valley and the Pump Shed Road Descent loop from Samford Conservation Park, both offering a return to your starting point.
While Brian Burke Nature Reserve is generally appreciated for its natural setting, specific regulations regarding dogs on mountain bike trails can vary. It's always best to check local signage or the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service website for the most current information on dog access in nature reserves and conservation parks. For Samford Conservation Park, which has dedicated mountain biking trails, you can find more information on their activities page: parks.qld.gov.au.
The mountain bike routes in the Brian Burke Nature Reserve area often utilize fire trails and vehicle tracks, which can be unpaved. The terrain includes moderate climbs and descents, with surfaces varying from dirt to gravel. Conditions can change with weather, so it's advisable to check recent reports or local conditions before heading out.
Parking availability will depend on your chosen starting point. Many routes, such as those originating from Samford Valley or Ferny Grove, typically have public parking areas nearby. For routes within Samford Conservation Park, designated parking facilities are usually available at trailheads. Always look for official parking areas to ensure compliance with local regulations.
Yes, the eucalypt forest setting provides a natural backdrop for rides. Some trails offer views over Samford Valley towards Mt Nebo, particularly on routes that include moderate climbs. The natural environment itself, with its native flora and fauna, offers many scenic moments.
The eucalypt forest environment of Brian Burke Nature Reserve is home to various bird species, making it a good spot for bird watching. While mountain biking, you might encounter native birds and other small wildlife typical of Australian bushland. Remember to ride respectfully and keep an eye out for animals.
Brian Burke Nature Reserve is primarily known for general cycling and walking. However, the nearby Samford Conservation Park offers dedicated mountain biking trails, some of which are exclusive to mountain bikers, in addition to shared trails. These include trails like Pipeline, Water Tank, and Fitness trail, catering to different skill levels. You can find more details on the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service website: parks.qld.gov.au.
The mountain bike routes in the Brian Burke Nature Reserve area are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.8 stars from 16 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the natural eucalypt forest environment, and the options available for different ability levels.
Yes, there are options for longer rides. For example, the Steep Dirt Descent loop from Ferny Grove is a moderate 36.7 km route, offering a substantial distance for those looking for a longer day out on the trails.
The region generally experiences a subtropical climate. The cooler, drier months from autumn to spring (roughly April to October) are often preferred for outdoor activities like mountain biking, as temperatures are more moderate and rainfall is typically lower. Summer months can be hot and humid, with a higher chance of rain.


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