Lake Wyaralong

Lake Wyaralong, nestled at the base of Mt Joyce between Beaudesert and Boonah in the aptly named Scenic Rim, is an outdoor wonderland that makes a great day trip from Brisbane. 

Since 2011, when Wyaralong Dam (Queensland’s newest dam) was completed, Lake Wyaralong has become a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Popular water sports include canoeing, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, boating and fishing. 

If you’re more landlubber than water baby, there are more than 40 kilometres of multi-use trails available for walkers, horse riders and mountain bike riders.

Bush walks range from short treks around the dam wall to more strenuous hikes to the top of Mt Joyce with stunning views over the lake; while mountain bike trails range from basic Green Trails to Double-Black Diamond Trails.

Ideal for day trips, this pretty lake is a popular spot for picnics with electric barbecues on hand, picnic shelters right on the water’s edge and a small playground for children. 

An unexpected highlight and well worth a look is the Sculpture Park, sitting on a hill overlooking the lake. The park features large-scale public artworks by Australian and international sculptors, including the striking Night Swimming by Tamborine Mountain sculptor Jacques van der Merwe.

Need to know - Boating permits are not required at Lake Wyaralong, however you do need a permit to fish. 

By Deb Lidster