South Pine River (Middle Section)
Moreton Bay
Strathpine
KEY INFO
Distance (kms):
11.3 kms
Time (hrs):
Allow 4 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 wonderfully scenic paddle with a variety of views, including parks, homes, farmland, bushland, a number of underpasses and a fun rocky section to paddle on the outgoing tide.
This lightly trafficked paddle starts from Bob Bell Park in Strathpine and finishes near Linkfield Road in Brendale when the river chokes up with vegetation.
From the canoe launch at the park, head left (upstream).
This section of the river predominantly passes through farmland, as well as occasionally passing public parks, residential properties, and a gravel quarry. There are also a number of road bridges and a trainline to pass under.
The banks are often high and eroded, which can either protect from the wind or create a wind tunnel of sorts.
Approximately 1.7 kms into the paddle you have an option to paddle around an island with large electricity pylons on it, which adds about 1.1 kms to the trip. This section is typically stagnated and offers little in scenery.
The rocky section just after passing under the train line is a particularly fun spot. It is recommended to try and time the paddle to come back to this section on the outgoing tide, where the water rushes over the rocks.
There is also an abundance of wildlife, in particular a wide array of waterbirds, eagles and kestrels, fish, lizards and turtles (as well as the odd uninterested bull shark).
This section of the river is highly affected by the tides. Most parts of the river are quite shallow, even at high tide, and many spots bottom out around low tide. Expect to jump out and portage some small sections.
Difficulty: For the most part, the river is wide and banks are often high and eroded. This can either protect from the wind or create a wind tunnel, depending on the wind direction. Low-wind conditions are recommended for the most pleasant paddle.
Direction: This is an out-and-back paddle that returns the way it came. Besides the island with the electricity pylons, there is limited ability for taking a wrong turn once on the river.
getting there
The paddle starts at Bob Bell Park, on Learmonth Street in Strathpine, 30 minutes drive north of Brisbane.
Parking is ample.
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 river is tidal, and the paddle is upstream, so should be completed 2-3 hours either side of the incoming high tide. Large sections 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.