Hike Queensland's Scenic Rim Trail
Lace up your hiking boots and set off on a four-day adventure on Queensland's Scenic Rim along stunning hiking trails. Watch the sunrise over Mt Mistake, hike along an old logging route once travelled by bullock and cart and spend nights surrounded by gum trees in your stunning wooden eco-cabin. Listen to the sounds of songbirds in the verdant rainforest as you rest near Dalrymple Creek, learn about the distinct flora and fauna of Main Range National Park from your expert guides, and stay in a comfortable eco-conscious homestead.
Activities
- On trail snacks including trail mix, muesli bars & fruit
- Pillow, pillowcase and sheet at each camp
- 4 days Guided Hiking on the Scenic Rim Trail
- 2 Expert Local Scenic Rim Guides
- Hiking poles included
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed, sub-tropical Gondwana rainforest on foot – just 90 minutes from Brisbane!
- Hike remote tracks on the Scenic Rim trail through blue gum forest, verdant rainforests and dry sclerophyll forest in Main Range National Park.
- Rest your head in an eco-conscious homestead converted from a 1900s farmhouse and soak in panoramic mountain views from your veranda. Then, stay in an architectural wooden eco-cabins, nestled among the gum trees
- Watch the sunrise over Mt Mistake before setting off along an old logging route that was once travelled by bull and cart.
- Learn about the abundant and distinct flora and fauna of the region from your expert local leaders.
- Adventure and Active
- Hiking and Trekking
- Rail Tours
Day 1 Brisbane and Scenic Rim Trail hiking
Welcome to Queensland's Scenic Rim! Your adventure begins in Brisbane early this morning when you meet your leader and fellow hikers before hitting the road towards Thornton in the Main Range National Park for today's hike on the Scenic Rim Trail. After a short hike briefing you'll start your first hike as the trail winds its way up into the Mistake Mountain Range through dry sclerophyll forest with incredible vistas of the valley below. The trail is rough and uphill for most of the day with some ‘rock scrambling’ along the natural rock along the way, but the sweeping mountain views more than make up for it. From here the majority of the walk takes place around 1000m above sea level. Our walking pace depends on the conditions and the speed of the group but we aim to arrive by mid afternoon so you'll have plenty of time to kick off your boots and relax after the hike in the stunning nature that surrounds the Mount Mistake Farmhouse. This authentic and comfortable working farmhouse will instantly feel like home, and your private room is filled with little luxuries that will delight each and every guest. Regrouping around 6pm for your daily briefing then sharing a well-earned welcome dinner.
(L, D)
Day 2 Scenic Rim Trail hiking
Sunrise at Mt Mistake is a real highlight and if the weather is clear, you can head out to the escarpment with a warm drink in hand to soak in the first rays of the sun and take in the stunning views before returning to camp for a hearty continental breakfast with the group. Your guides will provide you with your lunches and show you where to refill your water bottles before departing camp on the Scenic Rim Trail, following an old logging route once traversed by bullock and cart. Your day will start with an uphill hike before entering the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforest. Today's trails allow for fairly easy walking with only moderate inclines and many flat sections. As you continue hiking, the trail becomes more challenging as you navigate rainforest trails into your stunning private Eco-Camp. Nestled amongst the gum trees, the modern architectural wooden cabins blend beautifully with the peaceful background of the surrounding national park, and the generous cabin windows and private balcony really give you the sense of being part of nature. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon and a steaming hot shower before heading to the beautiful main lodge. Tonight, maybe relax with a drink on the observation deck overlooking the mountain ranges and watch the sunset before enjoying a delicious group dinner.
(B, L, D)
Day 3 Scenic Rim Trail hiking
After a great night’s sleep, wake up to the sound of morning songbirds then maybe roll out one of the included yoga mats on your cabin balcony or take it down to the viewing deck to enjoy some morning stretches before fueling up on a continental breakfast. You’ll then grab your lunch and snacks and hit the trail. Start the day with a reasonably flat warm up as you walk up the access road enjoying the sounds of nature as you go. Today’s track can sometimes get muddy, so you may have to skirt around a few puddles before descending into the valley surrounded by verdant rainforest. Nature is pretty raw here and the pace is slower as we take care with our footing navigating the steep zig-zag route through the tree roots, rocky boulder sections and frequent creek crossings. Take a well-earned break at the serene Dalrymple Creek. Later this afternoon, you’ll arrive at your private eco-camp. Located on the site of a former logger’s camp, you’ll get a sense of the history when you view the old tin shack that once housed the timber getters (people who logged timber) of the time. The comfortable timber-clad cabins are nestled in the heart of the giant blue gum forest – a haven for the local flora and fauna. The afternoon is free to relax - perhaps take in the sights and sounds of the forest from your own balcony, enjoy a hot shower, or venture to the hillside for tree-filled views across the Dalrymple Creek Valley. Tonight, celebrate a trip well-travelled with your final group dinner.
(B, L, D)
Day 4 Scenic Rim Trail hiking & Brisbane
Rise early and listen in awe to the dawn chorus of the local birdlife before beginning your usual morning routine of breakfast, packing and gathering your gear for the day one last time. Then it’s time to head off on your final hike along the Scenic Rim Trail. Today’s walk begins with a climb up the fire trail and past an old pine plantation before heading deep into the rainforest on a Grade 5 trail. Along the way you’ll marvel at the huge rainforest trees with buttresses up to six feet tall. Once again, the pace is slower as you safely negotiate the tree roots and rocky sections of the trail before emerging from deep in the rainforest to climb up and over Bare Rock. The 360 degree views on a clear day are incredible. From here you’ll join the more travelled trails. After spending the last three days on remote trails in secluded and pristine nature it can come as a shock as you start to pass fellow walkers, few of whom will ever venture where you have recently hiked. At the end of the trail a private vehicle will be waiting for you to transfer you back to Brisbane. Your trip will end on arrival into Brisbane. If you’d like to stay in Brisbane longer – and it’s recommended that you do if you have more to explore – just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.
(B, L)
A once-in-a-lifetime trip is out there waiting for you
Whether you’re craving a food-focused trip, are in search of your next summit, or are looking for an adventure for the whole family, we have a theme to suit everyone.
18 to 35s
Under 35 and looking to travel with a group your own age? We’ve created a range of trips exclusively for the next generation of socially conscious explorers. Ditch the big tour buses for authentic experiences in new places and cultures, connecting with your own small crew and making a difference in local communities along the way.
Multi-active
For some of us, it’s just not a holiday without some trekking, snorkeling or kayaking in the mix. Our Multi-Active range cranks the octane levels up a notch with a wide range of outdoor thrills in some of the world’s most beautiful places. Think mountain biking in Madagascar, canyoning in Costa Rica or whitewater rafting in the Amazon.
Camping
Ditch the packed footpaths for dusty roads and head out on your next big adventure: a camping trip in the great outdoors. Whether you’re excited to help set up camp or want to enjoy the creature comforts of premium accommodation in remote locations, our camping tours are for everyone from the first-timers to the tent enthusiasts (and everyone in between).
Cruises
Ditch the conga lines and cabaret of traditional big ship cruises for a more immersive cruising experience. Our range of small-ship adventure cruises are all about the destination – exploring local villages and markets, diving into the history of each destination, and stopping in at smaller ports that commercial liners just can’t reach.
Cycling
Whether you’re a Tour de France fanatic or just enjoy the wind in your face on two wheels, a cycling adventure can take you up the cols of the Alps or across the roof of the world in Tibet. You don’t have to be a Bradley or a Cadel – whatever your level of fitness and experience, we’ve got le tour for you.
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Expeditions
Our exclusive range of very special adventures: our expedition trips. They are limited departures that tackle the unexplored regions of the world untouched by tourism – everywhere from Burma’s Ice Mountains to the salt lakes of Djibouti.
Explorer
These trips are built for travelers who like to sample a bit of everything off the travel menu. They include a mix of activities and experiences so you can get a feel for the place through culture, history, adventure and food all rolled up into one easy package.
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Family
There’s more to a family adventure than theme parks and resort kid’s clubs. Our carefully crafted itineraries allow you to create a memorable adventure together with your children. Experience authentic local culture with an English-speaking leader who will share their knowledge and passion for their country with you.
Festivals
For us, festivals are the smell of incense, the fizz of fireworks and the squelch of a fresh tomato. They arrive with the thunder of bespeckled dancers and wind down like a Munich beer hall hangover. They’re the lantern-lit, confetti-filled, mud-slinging reminder that life is there to be enjoyed to the max, and that there’s no such thing as too much fun in the name of pomp and ceremony.
Food
Food Adventures are about discovering new flavors while exploring the world. With a focus on street fare, local specialities, home cooking and urban food culture, these trips offer the authentic local experience that Intrepid is famous for, with an emphasis on cuisine.
Long trips
Spend anywhere from three to nine weeks circumnavigating continents, crossing borders and ticking off bucket list sites when you’re on a long tour. We think more time means more experiences - so that’s more phrases learned, people met, food tasted, pictures taken and so much more.
Polar
Cast adrift to the extremes of the earth and discover great white landscapes full of icy inlets and frozen coves. Experience the rush of setting foot on some of the world's most remote terrain, witness brilliant natural phenomena and come to terms with the sheer size and scale of our planet's polar regions.
Rail
Traveling by train isn't merely a means of getting from A to B – you'll share carriages with the locals and soak up the scenery before stepping off the platform into the heart of the action. Forget busy airports, traffic jams and lack of legroom and climb aboard for a slower-paced, lower-carbon adventure.
Sailing
There’s nothing more relaxing than exploring a destination via its waterways. No traffic jams, no delays – just endless horizons and golden sunsets. And with a range of sailing trips in Thailand, Burma, the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Galapagos islands as well as Polar cruises, there's bound to be a water-based adventure that suits you.
Short breaks
Whether you’re short of time and looking for a mini-break with a difference, or want to unwind on a beach after a big backpacking adventure, these 2-5 day itineraries offer the same local, authentic experiences as our longer trips, but in a shorter amount of time.
Solo travel
Just because you don't have someone to travel with doesn't mean you have to sit at home dreaming of faraway destinations and epic adventures. Become a part of the Intrepid family by embarking on one of our leader-led group tours - visiting some amazing places, giving back to local communities, and making lifelong friends as you go.
Tailor-Made
Want to see the world on your terms? Then build your adventure, your way – create your own exclusive Intrepid trip, step-by-step with us. We plan, you relax. We design, you do.
Urban Adventures
So you’ve just arrived in a new city. You step outside your hotel, take a deep breath and…then what? Wouldn’t it be great to have a friendly local to show you all their favorite spots – the little bars, hipster cafes and cool underground galleries that tourists never find? Enter Urban Adventures.
Walking & trekking
Explore on foot and make the most of the outdoors on one of our group tours or on a self-guided itinerary. All accommodation is pre-booked and your luggage will be transferred from point to point. They combine the best bits of hiking without any of the hassles.
Wildlife
Explore on foot and make the most of the outdoors on one of our group tours or on a self-guided itinerary. All accommodation is pre-booked and your luggage will be transferred from point to point. They combine the best bits of hiking without any of the hassles.
Women's Expeditions
Women’s Expeditions are all about breaking down barriers and creating immersive experiences for women that differ from our regular group departures. The trips provide local women with employment while also supporting women-owned and operated businesses in our supply chain.
For travelers seeking adventure
Our trips are carefully designed to make sure you have an unforgettable experience. Our various trip styles mean no matter what kind of adventure you’re after, we’ve got one for you.
Basix
Our Basix trips are designed for travelers of any age on a budget, we use simple, clean and centrally located accommodation, local transport where we can and include plenty of free time. This means you can do the things that suit your budget and interests, rather than paying for inclusions you don’t want.
Accommodation
Simple, clean and centrally located accommodation with a 2-to-2.5-star average rating. Typical accommodation types include budget hotels, local guesthouses, camping or homestays.
Transport
Mostly uses local transport (tuk-tuk anyone?), which puts money back into the local economy and gives you a taste of local life. Use specialist overland and safari vehicles in some areas.
Inclusions
With plenty of free time and optional activities, so you can choose how to spend your time and money. Meals are generally not included, but your experienced local leader will have some great suggestions!
Original
Our Original trips are what we built our reputation on! They're the perfect choice for those after a great mix of included activities and insights from a local leader, as well as free time to explore a destination on their own. Original trips use centrally located, locally run accommodation and include some meals.
Accommodation
Local guesthouses and homestay experiences are featured on many itineraries and you may even camp from time to time. Expect 3-star accommodation on average.
Transport
Uses a mixture of private and local transport like tuk-tuks, camels, private safari vehicles, buses, trains, canoes – whatever is the best and most sustainable way to get around.
Inclusions
With a balance between free time and included activities, your experienced local leader will help you discover things you won’t find on your own. There are some meals included, but the rest are up to you!
Comfort
Our Comfort trips smooth away some of adventure travel’s rougher edges to craft a style of travel that has a few more pleasantries included. Enjoy a more relaxed pace of travel, inviting accommodation, more included activities and many meals along the way.
Accommodation
Comfortable hotels at a 3-to-4-star level, with private amenities and often plenty of local character. Some itineraries also feature homestays or unique accommodation.
Transport
Primarily uses private transport. Local transport is occasionally used when it adds to the experience, like hopping on the back of a camel in the Sahara.
Inclusions
We’ve taken the hassle out of traveling, by including many of the activities, meals and an arrival transfer from the airport. Your experienced local leader will also have plenty of tips for how best to fill your free time.
Premium
Our Premium trips have handpicked accommodation, exceptional included experiences, led by our most knowledgeable leaders, Premium trips are the sustainable choice for higher-end, locally led adventures.
Accommodation
Handpicked for location and quality at a 4-star level. All itineraries include a feature stay at an unforgettable and unique accommodation.
Transport
Primarily uses private transport. Use first-class trains where we can, or carbon-offset internal flights where necessary, as well as comfortable 4x4s in Africa.
Inclusions
More included activities and extras than any other Intrepid trip, including tipping and an arrival transfer. Breakfast is included every day, as well as many lunches and dinners. You’ll be led by our most experienced local leaders.
A once-in-a-lifetime trip is out there waiting for you
Whether you’re craving a food-focused trip, are in search of your next summit, or are looking for an adventure for the whole family, we have a theme to suit everyone.
18 to 35s
Under 35 and looking to travel with a group your own age? We’ve created a range of trips exclusively for the next generation of socially conscious explorers. Ditch the big tour buses for authentic experiences in new places and cultures, connecting with your own small crew and making a difference in local communities along the way.
Multi-active
For some of us, it’s just not a holiday without some trekking, snorkeling or kayaking in the mix. Our Multi-Active range cranks the octane levels up a notch with a wide range of outdoor thrills in some of the world’s most beautiful places. Think mountain biking in Madagascar, canyoning in Costa Rica or whitewater rafting in the Amazon.
Camping
Ditch the packed footpaths for dusty roads and head out on your next big adventure: a camping trip in the great outdoors. Whether you’re excited to help set up camp or want to enjoy the creature comforts of premium accommodation in remote locations, our camping tours are for everyone from the first-timers to the tent enthusiasts (and everyone in between).
Cruises
Ditch the conga lines and cabaret of traditional big ship cruises for a more immersive cruising experience. Our range of small-ship adventure cruises are all about the destination – exploring local villages and markets, diving into the history of each destination, and stopping in at smaller ports that commercial liners just can’t reach.
Cycling
Whether you’re a Tour de France fanatic or just enjoy the wind in your face on two wheels, a cycling adventure can take you up the cols of the Alps or across the roof of the world in Tibet. You don’t have to be a Bradley or a Cadel – whatever your level of fitness and experience, we’ve got le tour for you.
Expeditions
Our exclusive range of very special adventures: our expedition trips. They are limited departures that tackle the unexplored regions of the world untouched by tourism – everywhere from Burma’s Ice Mountains to the salt lakes of Djibouti.
Explorer
These trips are built for travelers who like to sample a bit of everything off the travel menu. They include a mix of activities and experiences so you can get a feel for the place through culture, history, adventure and food all rolled up into one easy package.
Family
There’s more to a family adventure than theme parks and resort kid’s clubs. Our carefully crafted itineraries allow you to create a memorable adventure together with your children. Experience authentic local culture with an English-speaking leader who will share their knowledge and passion for their country with you.
Festivals
For us, festivals are the smell of incense, the fizz of fireworks and the squelch of a fresh tomato. They arrive with the thunder of bespeckled dancers and wind down like a Munich beer hall hangover. They’re the lantern-lit, confetti-filled, mud-slinging reminder that life is there to be enjoyed to the max, and that there’s no such thing as too much fun in the name of pomp and ceremony.
Food
Food Adventures are about discovering new flavors while exploring the world. With a focus on street fare, local specialities, home cooking and urban food culture, these trips offer the authentic local experience that Intrepid is famous for, with an emphasis on cuisine.
Long trips
Spend anywhere from three to nine weeks circumnavigating continents, crossing borders and ticking off bucket list sites when you’re on a long tour. We think more time means more experiences - so that’s more phrases learned, people met, food tasted, pictures taken and so much more.
Polar
Cast adrift to the extremes of the earth and discover great white landscapes full of icy inlets and frozen coves. Experience the rush of setting foot on some of the world's most remote terrain, witness brilliant natural phenomena and come to terms with the sheer size and scale of our planet's polar regions.
Rail
Traveling by train isn't merely a means of getting from A to B – you'll share carriages with the locals and soak up the scenery before stepping off the platform into the heart of the action. Forget busy airports, traffic jams and lack of legroom and climb aboard for a slower-paced, lower-carbon adventure.
Sailing
There’s nothing more relaxing than exploring a destination via its waterways. No traffic jams, no delays – just endless horizons and golden sunsets. And with a range of sailing trips in Thailand, Burma, the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Galapagos islands as well as Polar cruises, there's bound to be a water-based adventure that suits you.
Short breaks
Whether you’re short of time and looking for a mini-break with a difference, or want to unwind on a beach after a big backpacking adventure, these 2-5 day itineraries offer the same local, authentic experiences as our longer trips, but in a shorter amount of time.
Solo travel
Just because you don't have someone to travel with doesn't mean you have to sit at home dreaming of faraway destinations and epic adventures. Become a part of the Intrepid family by embarking on one of our leader-led group tours - visiting some amazing places, giving back to local communities, and making lifelong friends as you go.
Tailor-Made
Want to see the world on your terms? Then build your adventure, your way – create your own exclusive Intrepid trip, step-by-step with us. We plan, you relax. We design, you do.
Urban Adventures
So you’ve just arrived in a new city. You step outside your hotel, take a deep breath and…then what? Wouldn’t it be great to have a friendly local to show you all their favorite spots – the little bars, hipster cafes and cool underground galleries that tourists never find? Enter Urban Adventures.
Walking & trekking
Explore on foot and make the most of the outdoors on one of our group tours or on a self-guided itinerary. All accommodation is pre-booked and your luggage will be transferred from point to point. They combine the best bits of hiking without any of the hassles.
Wildlife
Explore on foot and make the most of the outdoors on one of our group tours or on a self-guided itinerary. All accommodation is pre-booked and your luggage will be transferred from point to point. They combine the best bits of hiking without any of the hassles.
Women's Expeditions
Women’s Expeditions are all about breaking down barriers and creating immersive experiences for women that differ from our regular group departures. The trips provide local women with employment while also supporting women-owned and operated businesses in our supply chain.
For travelers seeking adventure
Our trips are carefully designed to make sure you have an unforgettable experience. Our various trip styles mean no matter what kind of adventure you’re after, we’ve got one for you.
Basix
Our Basix trips are designed for travelers of any age on a budget, we use simple, clean and centrally located accommodation, local transport where we can and include plenty of free time. This means you can do the things that suit your budget and interests, rather than paying for inclusions you don’t want.
Accommodation
Simple, clean and centrally located accommodation with a 2-to-2.5-star average rating. Typical accommodation types include budget hotels, local guesthouses, camping or homestays.
Transport
Mostly uses local transport (tuk-tuk anyone?), which puts money back into the local economy and gives you a taste of local life. Use specialist overland and safari vehicles in some areas.
Inclusions
With plenty of free time and optional activities, so you can choose how to spend your time and money. Meals are generally not included, but your experienced local leader will have some great suggestions!
Original
Our Original trips are what we built our reputation on! They're the perfect choice for those after a great mix of included activities and insights from a local leader, as well as free time to explore a destination on their own. Original trips use centrally located, locally run accommodation and include some meals.
Accommodation
Local guesthouses and homestay experiences are featured on many itineraries and you may even camp from time to time. Expect 3-star accommodation on average.
Transport
Uses a mixture of private and local transport like tuk-tuks, camels, private safari vehicles, buses, trains, canoes – whatever is the best and most sustainable way to get around.
Inclusions
With a balance between free time and included activities, your experienced local leader will help you discover things you won’t find on your own. There are some meals included, but the rest are up to you!
Comfort
Our Comfort trips smooth away some of adventure travel’s rougher edges to craft a style of travel that has a few more pleasantries included. Enjoy a more relaxed pace of travel, inviting accommodation, more included activities and many meals along the way.
Accommodation
Comfortable hotels at a 3-to-4-star level, with private amenities and often plenty of local character. Some itineraries also feature homestays or unique accommodation.
Transport
Primarily uses private transport. Local transport is occasionally used when it adds to the experience, like hopping on the back of a camel in the Sahara.
Inclusions
We’ve taken the hassle out of traveling, by including many of the activities, meals and an arrival transfer from the airport. Your experienced local leader will also have plenty of tips for how best to fill your free time.
Premium
Our Premium trips have handpicked accommodation, exceptional included experiences, led by our most knowledgeable leaders, Premium trips are the sustainable choice for higher-end, locally led adventures.
Accommodation
Handpicked for location and quality at a 4-star level. All itineraries include a feature stay at an unforgettable and unique accommodation.
Transport
Primarily uses private transport. Use first-class trains where we can, or carbon-offset internal flights where necessary, as well as comfortable 4x4s in Africa.
Inclusions
More included activities and extras than any other Intrepid trip, including tipping and an arrival transfer. Breakfast is included every day, as well as many lunches and dinners. You’ll be led by our most experienced local leaders.
About Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a world leader in sustainable experience-rich travel that has been taking travelers off the beaten track to discover the world's most amazing places since 1989.
That's over 30 years of adventures, visiting new places and old friends, and countless, unforgettable moments. More than 30 years of changing the way people see the world on small group trips with like-minded explorers and a local leader to show you around.
Intrepid offers travels to all 7 continents, and offers more than 900 unique itineraries, and every trip – whether closer to home or further afield - is designed to truly experience local culture. Travelers eat, sleep and get around the local way, going where the bigger groups can’t. With its own network of 30+ destination management companies, Intrepid has unique local expertise and perspectives.
Globally renowned as a leader in responsible travel, in 2018 our carbon-neutral business became a certified B-Corp travel company, joining a growing community of businesses looking beyond the bottom line. Intrepid are the only tour operator with verified science-based carbon reduction targets and an industry leader in climate action.
About Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a world leader in sustainable experience-rich travel that has been taking travelers off the beaten track to discover the world's most amazing places since 1989.
That's over 30 years of adventures, visiting new places and old friends, and countless, unforgettable moments. More than 30 years of changing the way people see the world on small group trips with like-minded explorers and a local leader to show you around.
Intrepid offers travels to all 7 continents, and offers more than 900 unique itineraries, and every trip – whether closer to home or further afield - is designed to truly experience local culture. Travelers eat, sleep and get around the local way, going where the bigger groups can’t. With its own network of 30+ destination management companies, Intrepid has unique local expertise and perspectives.
Globally renowned as a leader in responsible travel, in 2018 our carbon-neutral business became a certified B-Corp travel company, joining a growing community of businesses looking beyond the bottom line. Intrepid are the only tour operator with verified science-based carbon reduction targets and an industry leader in climate action.
