A picturesque retreat into nature seven kilometres from the Ipswich Central Business District is the peaceful Kholo Gardens at Pine Mountain. It’s an unexpected delight to explore with its lush gardens, crystal clear lily pond, bush walks and open spaces. Giant Kauri trees and Hoop Pines planted by early settlers, rare birds and plants, and the nearby Brisbane River all make this a special place to spend some time. It’s also a sacred site for the indigenous Jagera, Yuggera and Ugarapul People.
At this subtropical haven, you can enjoy the peace and quiet of the 400 metre walk through Tree Fern Lane under a natural rainforest canopy. The more energetic can try the steeper 800 metre Coal Creek Walk – aptly named seeing as the earliest recordings of coal in the area were made here in 1825.
Formerly the site of a water pumping station, Kholo Gardens has an historic well onsite as well as a charming little old church, relocated here in 1990 from Redbank. With that and a stunningly restored Queenslander nearby, you can see why this is a popular venue for weddings and other functions. There are also barbecues, picnic tables and public toilets.
This trail forms the backbone of all trails in the Conservation Estate, and connects the two picnic areas. It caters for hiking, horse riding and recreational touring (mountain bike riding). At 38 km return, this trail becomes challenging. Experienced walkers would need to start early in the morning to complete a return trip, requiring at least a 10 to 14 hour day. Note that the conservation estate is open between the hours of 6am and 6pm. Alternatively, a 19km one way walk could be considered for those who can organise travel/accommodation arrangements at the other end. Rugged mountain scenery, views to the coast from Mt Flinders, creek crossings and diverse landscapes such as dry rainforest and heath will reward you.
Entry to this walk is from Harding's Paddock Picnic Area - Encompassing the Picnic and Bush Tucker areas, this trail is flat and easily accessible for all levels of fitness. Along the trail learn about various bushtucker plants through interpretive signage from both an Indigenous and European perspective.
Walk takes approx 5-10mins
A different way to get to Flinder’s Peak - follows fire trails East of the summit then approaches from South and South West - joining the trourist trail just before the chimney up to the summit. Back down the chimney and follow the standard tourist trail down to the carpark.
A steep climb up the northwestern ridge of Flinders Peak, passing over several crests giving expansive views north to Brisbane on the way up. As it climbs higher, views expand to include the Fassifern Valley and south west to Lamington plateau.
The final segment descends from Little Flinders across a col and ascends again to Flinders Peak. This is the most rugged section of the track and extra caution is required. Rock scrambling skills and strong boots are essential. Views from the peak can be stunning.
Entry to this walk is from Hardings Paddock Picnic Area -
Take a hike or short, leisurely mountain bike ride along this
circuit or use it as the launching pad for longer and more
challenging trails including the Goolman and Rocky Knoll
Lookouts, and Boonah to Ipswich Trail.
Entry is from Hardings Paddock Picnic Area
Forming part of the Boonah to Ipswich Trail this multi-user trail winds its way to Goolman Lookout where you enjoy spectacular views of Mt Goolman and Ivory’s Rock, Scenic Rim and Brisbane. On a clear day it is possible to see the
Pacific Ocean.
Entry is from Hardings Paddock Picnic Area
An alternative and slightly longer route to Goolman Lookout
skirting around the base of the Rocky Knoll. Be weary that this has some steep sections. To avoid slipping down the slope It is better to go via the Goolman Lookout track then return via Rocky Knoll.
Easiest way is to start from the end of Stowers Rd. Follow fire trail keeping left at any intersections, and start of the track up is at -27.75821, 152.79298. Not an overly difficult climb, with a reasonably clear track all the way to the summit. Also a few ribbons may help you get there.