Condamine Gorge
Southern Downs
The Head
KEY INFO
Distance (kms):
15.5 kms
Time (hrs):
Allow 45 mins
Elevation gain (m):
118 m
Max. elevation (m):
736 m
Difficulty (Grade):
Moderate
Route type:
One-way
Traffic:
Moderate
Access:
4WD Required
Click to see full image.
A fantastic drive through Condamine Gorge in the Scenic Rim, crossing over the Condamine River 14 times, and driving past picturesque farmland and dramatic cliff faces.
This moderately trafficked drive starts from The Head, at the junction of Spring Creek Road and Condamine River Road.
The drive starts through open farmland, with beautiful views forward to the cliff faces on either side of the gorge.
The road then passes through a gate and over a cattle grid, before crossing the Condamine River 14 times, surrounded by beautiful bushland and periodic glimpses of the cliffs.
The river crossings require a high-clearance 4WD and the are of varying depths. The creek bed is rocky and care should be taken for potential large rocks on the vehicle underbelly.
There are numerous places to pull over through the drive and explore the river further, however be respectful of the private properties located throughout the drive.
Once through the gorge, either return the way you came, or via Border Road to Spring Creek Road.
The drive can also be paired with the nearby ‘Falls Drive’, which includes Queen Mary Falls, Brown Falls and Daggs Falls, as well as Carrs Lookout.
The drive to The Head from Brisbane is also, in and of itself, very scenic, through steep windy sections, with views to Main Range National Park and the Moogerah Peaks.
Difficulty: The drive is an intermediate level due to the multitude of creek crossings. The majority of the drive is well-maintained graded gravel roads, with the creek crossings the only part requiring 4WD to be engaged.
Direction: This drive can be performed as an out-and-back drive or a loop, as described above. There are no deviations from Condamine River Road.
getting there
The drive starts at The Head, located at the junction of Spring Creek Road and Condamine River Road, about 2 hours drive south-west of Brisbane.
best time to go
The drive can be completed year-round. The river runs well, even during dry months. Due to the risk of flooding, the drive should be avoided after heavy recent rain.
Remember, whenever venturing into the outdoors, practice the Leave No Trace principles and be considerate of others. This means: dispose of your waste properly, don't remove things or move things from their natural position and respect all wildlife. Also be sure to plan ahead and adequately prepare for any adventure.
I respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which all activities listed on this website are found, as well as Elders past, present and emerging. I strive to not promote sites where requests have been made for people not to explore due to the cultural significance of the site to Indigenous peoples, or note how to respectfully visit a site. If I have a promoted a site with cultural significance, please send me a message and let me know.