Boonah - Rathdowney - Beaudesert Two Day Ride
Last Updated June 2001
(The pick a plank bridge, 11 km wesst of Beaudesert, was in the process of
being replaced in June 2001 and has been deleted from the cuesheet.}
Getting There
Use the Ipswich to Boonah day ride cuesheet. The distance is about 60
km. Camping is permitted in the Boonah show grounds. Boonah is a mid
sized town with hotels, motels, a good general store, a bakery, good
cafes and take away food shops. There are no banks.
Description
The total distance is about 150 km. Most of the route is undulating,
with one major climb at about 75 km. This ride can be done as a loaded
touring ride with camping at the 82 km point, or as a lightly loaded
ride, with overnight accommodation in Beaudesert. The camping option
divides the distances reasonably. However, the climb at the 75 km point
is steep and difficult when loaded. The camping area is located on the
bank of the Albert River and is enjoyable. The water is pumped from the
river and is untreated. It should be boiled or sterilised before
drinking. If Beaudesert is used for accommodation, the distances are
about 110/40 km which makes a hard and an easy day. Rathdowney has a
hotel, caravan park, small general store and take away shop and butcher.
There is a park with water and toilets beside the main street. If
camping, purchasing food in Boonah is advisable as there is not much
variety in Rathdowney. Beaudesert is a large town with banks, motels,
hotels etc. The Returned Services Club (RSL) serves good meals and the
Copper Kettle is a good take away store.
Scenery
Between Boonah and Rathdowney, beef cattle grazing is the main industry.
There are good views of Mt Maroon and a pleasant run down a granite
creek valley close to Rathdowney. After Rathdowney, there is
agriculture on the creek and river flats and dairy farms. The ride
along the Albert River valley is enjoyable.
Route Details
The road between Boonah and Rathdowney is a quiet back road. The gravel
section is usually in good condition and suitable for most bikes. From
Rathdowney to Beaudesert, the route winds along roads which are not
through roads and are usually quiet. Beaudesert to Boonah is a main
road and can be busy. Also, trucks are often encountered, however it is
reasonably bike friendly.
Map and Cue Sheet
Cue Sheet
Map