Scenic Rim Gravel - Boonah

Boonah, in Queensland’s Scenic Rim, is an outstanding base for gravel riding, with a maze of quiet country roads winding through rolling farmland, ridgelines and the foothills of the Border Ranges. Rather than one fixed trail, riders can build numerous gravel loops from town, ranging from around 50 km to 150 km, combining maintained gravel roads with quieter sealed backroads. Expect spectacular mountain views, remote farming country and plenty of climbing — this is scenic riding, but it definitely isn’t flat. One of the best-known options is Mini Dirty Boonah, a roughly 97 km mixed-surface loop designed for experienced gravel riders. From Boonah, the route heads through the countryside towards Cannon Creek, Lake Maroon, Carneys Creek and Mount Alford before returning to town. The ridgeline along Cannon Creek Road is a highlight, with expansive views towards the Border Ranges, while the country around Lake Maroon delivers some of the ride’s most remote and spectacular scenery. Don’t underestimate the climbing. The ascent from Fletcher Road towards Carneys Creek Road includes gradients approaching 15%, and many of the smaller backroads feature repeated short, steep pinches. Alternative Boonah gravel routes can be equally demanding — an 88 km variation of Dirty Boonah has around 1,400 m of climbing and 46% unsealed surfaces, while longer adventures can quickly push beyond 100 km. For riders wanting a serious adventure, Boonah can also launch much bigger Scenic Rim bikepacking routes. One option heads from Boonah past Lake Maroon and White Swamp towards the Southern Downs and Stanthorpe, with a 162 km stage accumulating around 3,730 m of climbing. This is advanced riding through remote country with rough gravel, steep gradients and limited opportunities to resupply. RTS Tip: Boonah’s gravel riding is best suited to confident riders with good fitness and self-sufficiency. Carry plenty of water and food — on some loops there can be 70 km or more between reliable resupply points — and download your route before leaving town. A gravel bike with 38 mm+ tyres, low gearing and good brakes is a sensible setup. Avoid the hottest part of summer where possible, and for a classic first taste of the region, build a loop incorporating Cannon Creek Road, Lake Maroon and Mount Alford.