Bellbird Grove Walk

One of the earliest bushwalking spots on the drive west from Brisbane, Bellbird Grove is also one of the most interesting, with gunyahs, an old gold mine and the added attraction of splendid open fields and tree-studded picnic and barbecue spots.

Take the Bellbird Grove turnoff (to the right when heading west) and drive to the end, where there is ample parking and excellent amenities. From here the 1.7km Turrbal Circuit begins. For the old mine Golden Boulder Circuit, park at the Brushbox Picnic Area about halfway along the road in or walk back to the start sign from the main picnic area.

A bushwalk with a historical edge, this gently sloping circuit meanders through the sparsely treed intriguing remains of ‘Golden Boulder’, one of the three gold mines that from 1860 to the 1930s saw the surrounding hills crawling with gold prospectors, some of whom lost their minds.

Remnants of the shafts are protected and signposted with poignant pieces of a miner’s tale and a recreated shanty hut adds to the sense of drama.

This walk winds through eucalypt forest that was once the home of the Turrbal tribe of Aborigines, leading down to a peaceful rock strewn creek before gently hiking back up. In a clearing on the way a small cluster of gunyahs have been recreated to capture a long-gone era.

If here early or late in the day, there’s a good chance of seeing some of the rampant birdlife inhabiting this preserved tract of forest.

Looking for more ideas on short walks around Brisbane and SE Qld? Check out our 10 Best Short Bush Walks guide for a step in the right direction.