3.8
(14)
617
riders
14
rides
Mountain biking in Brian Burke Reserve Nature Refuge offers varied terrain and well-defined tracks for riders of different skill levels. The reserve features a mix of paved and unpaved segments, including vehicle tracks and fire trails suitable for mountain biking. Riders can expect moderate climbs and some steeper sections, with opportunities to enjoy views over Samford Valley toward Mt Nebo. The area is characterized by upland forests, contributing to a diverse natural environment for outdoor pursuits.
Last updated: July 9, 2026
16
riders
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
6
riders
15.1km
00:58
180m
180m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
36.3km
02:58
550m
550m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
85
riders
Hard mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Samford Conservation Park protects a large area of open ironbark forest and shared bush trails on Brisbane’s northwestern fringe, popular with walkers, mountain bikers, trail runners, and horse riders. Ironbark Gully is the main day-use area, with picnic shelters, toilets, barbecues, drinking water, and access to several loop tracks through the reserve. The park is especially popular for fitness walks thanks to its rolling hills, wide gravel trails, and long shaded sections beneath the gums.
0
0
Samford Conservation Park includes a network of shared and specialised trails, with the main walking route being the Crebra Circuit—a short 900-metre Grade 3 loop that winds through ironbark forest from the Ironbark Gully picnic area. Beyond this, a more expansive system of multi-use trails (shared by walkers, horse riders, and cyclists) connects fire roads and forest tracks across the park, ideal for an extended walk with plenty of varied route options. There are also multiple designated mountain-bike-only trails, including Kombi, Bandicoot, and Sunset, offering purpose-built downhill and intermediate-to-difficult riding experiences within the park’s wider trail network.
0
0
Samford Conservation Park is a beautiful bushland reserve near the rural township of Samford Valley northwest of Brisbane. The park protects eucalypt forest and creek habitats that support native wildlife, including wallabies, koalas, and a variety of bird species, while also preserving part of the area’s natural catchment. There is a network of walking and cycling tracks and fire trails throughout the grounds, where you can explore the park’s ridgelines and gullies, making it an ideal location for quiet nature-based recreation close to the city.
0
0
Bellbird Grove is a popular picnic and recreation area within Brisbane Forest Park, nestled along Cedar Creek and surrounded by eucalypt forest. There are barbecues, shelters, toilets, and open grassy spaces, making it an ideal base for short walks and family outings. It’s also a trailhead for several walking tracks, with lots of birdlife, including whipbirds, cockatoos, and wonga pigeons. While you’re here, be sure to listen for the distinctive call of Bell Miners (or bellbirds), which call this area home.
0
0
Fairly steep descent that is best for full suspension or cautious hardtails. Remember to pull up before the creek at the bottom.
0
0
I’d suggest going around on the road but this is doable, with descending experience.
0
1
Brian Burke Reserve Nature Refuge offers a diverse network of 17 mountain bike trails. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy to difficult, ensuring there's something for every rider.
The trails feature varied terrain, including both paved and unpaved segments. You'll encounter well-defined vehicle tracks and fire trails, with moderate climbs, level stretches, and some steeper sections to challenge riders. The reserve is characterized by upland forests, adding to the natural experience.
Yes, there are 5 easy mountain bike trails in the reserve. A great option for beginners is the Maureen Lawrence Park loop from Ferny Grove, which covers 15.1 km with moderate elevation gain, offering a pleasant ride.
Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are 4 difficult trails. The Steep Dirt Descent loop from Samford Conservation Park is a notable option, featuring significant elevation changes and technical descents over 22.9 km.
While specific 'family-friendly' designations aren't provided, the 5 easy trails are generally suitable for families with some biking experience. The Pump Shed Road Descent loop from Samford Conservation Park is an easy 15.6 km route that could be a good choice for a family outing.
Yes, many routes offer scenic vistas. Riders can enjoy good views over Samford Valley toward Mt Nebo, providing a picturesque backdrop to your mountain biking adventure.
The trails in Brian Burke Reserve Nature Refuge are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 3.8 stars from over 16 reviews. More than 600 mountain bikers have explored the varied terrain here, often praising the diverse routes and natural environment.
As a Nature Refuge, regulations regarding dogs can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or the specific park management for current rules on bringing dogs onto the mountain bike trails to ensure compliance and protect the natural environment.
Many of the mountain bike trails in Brian Burke Reserve Nature Refuge are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. For example, the Latin Shack Cafe loop from Samford Valley is a popular 27.2 km loop route.
While specific parking areas within the reserve are not detailed, routes often start from nearby locations like Samford Valley or Samford Conservation Park, suggesting parking facilities are available in these vicinities. It's advisable to check the starting points of individual routes for precise parking information.
The region generally experiences a subtropical climate. For comfortable riding, consider visiting during the cooler, drier months, typically from autumn to spring (March to November), to avoid the peak heat and humidity of summer.
Yes, the reserve is accessible from areas like Samford Valley and Ferny Grove, which offer amenities. For instance, the Latin Shack Cafe loop from Samford Valley suggests that cafes are available in the nearby towns for refreshments before or after your ride.


Browse the best MTB trails in other regions.