This walk has been on my list to do for a little while and I am finally able to tick it off today. It is about approximately 40 minutes drive from Brisbane CBD, this is a short and family friendly hike for everyone to enjoy. It is surprising how secluded it feels once you are inside the reserve, given it is right on the doorsteps of urban life.
When you arrive at the park, there are 2 carparks, I would recommend parking at the first carpark which is right outside of the park gate. The one inside is very small with limited spaces available. From the first carpark, it is only about 1 minute or 2 walking time to reach the starting point of the walk.
The track is well signed, however, there is a small section of the return track that I find a bit confusing to navigate, so bring a track map/picture with you on the hike just in case if this is your first time here. The total distance is roughly 7km return with interesting rock formations and it is gentle uphill and downhill, which makes it great if you want to take the kids walking.
Follow the track leaving the Paperbark Flats Carpark until you reach the second turnoff. Turn left here and follow the signs/map, and you will reach White Rock fairly soon. You have the option of going up to the top of White Rock which offers great views, however, please keep in mind that this site is of significance to the aborigines.
Once you had a chance to explore around the rock, the track continues on. If you are coming down from the top of the rock, the track continues on to your left facing away from the rock. There are a few different options for you to choose for the return track. We followed the Ridge Track (watch out for the neon triangle on the tree for direction), and at one point on this track, there is a lookout which allows you to look back toward the top of the White Rock. It does get a little confusing while you are on top of the ridge track, but just follow the most worn track back down. You will come across stairway tracks to your left, but stick to the track you are on and eventually it will lead you back to the multi-use track where you started the walk from. Follow the multi-use track all the way to the end and you will reach the carpark.
Overall, this walk is great especially for families as it is not far away and the track conditions are good. If you do decide to go up White Rock summit, please be careful as the sandy surface can be slippery, please do not attempt the scramble in the rain or after recent rain for your own safety. If you want to do a long distance walk, White Rock is also connected by track to the Spring Mountains Reserve on the other end (20km approximate return).
Comments