Nundah Creek
Brisbane
Shorncliffe
KEY INFO
Distance (kms):
16.9 kms
Time (hrs):
Allow 5 hrs
Elevation gain (m):
N/A
Max. elevation (m):
N/A
Difficulty (Grade):
Moderate
Route type:
Out-and-back
Traffic:
Light
Access:
2WD Sufficient
Click to see full image.
A nice, open paddle from Shorncliffe to Virginia, through mangrove lined banks and the Boondall Wetlands.
This moderately trafficked paddle starts from the Shorncliffe Public Boat Ramp in Shorncliffe.
Head straight from the boat ramp. Left passes the Shorncliffe foreshore out into Bramble Bay, while right heads upstream of Cabbage Tree Creek.
Shortly after entering Nundah Creek you will see the bird hide on the right from the Billai Dha-gun Track in the Boondall Wetlands. There is also a small island shortly after that can be circumnavigated.
Beyond that, the creek is a wide, open paddle, with mangrove-lined shores, that are great for exploring at high tide.
The paddle snakes through the wetlands, hugging the Boondall Wetlands Bikeway at the 4.5 km mark, before passing under the footbridge at the 5.3 km mark.
The creek also passes under the Gateway Motorway (5.5 km mark) and trainline (7.9 km mark), before trees choke up the creek (close to the Virginia Golf Course).
Difficulty: The creek is wide, however not always protected from the wind. During high-wind conditions the paddle becomes much more difficult.
Direction: This is an out-and-back paddle that returns the way it came. There are only a couple of short, narrow tributaries, so limited ability for taking a wrong turn once on the creek.
getting there
The paddle starts at the Shorncliffe Public Boat Ramp on Sinbad Street in Shorncliffe, 30 minutes drive north of Brisbane.
Parking is ample, however this location is also used by boaties so can get busy during peak periods.
best time to go
The paddle can be completed year-round. There is limited shade during the middle parts of the day, so morning or afternoon is recommended.
As with any kayak, it is recommended to go in low-wind conditions.
The creek is tidal, and the paddle is upstream, so should be completed 2-3 hours either side of the incoming high tide. The creek is unlikely to bottom out at low tide.
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.