Who doesn't love a day out on the trails? Twisting through chicanes, pushing up ascents and thundering back down to earth on the other side. It only makes sense that we give a little back to ourselves on occasion and what better way to do it than delving into some of the best in mountain biking that the region has to offer.Thankfully, right here in Ipswich there's loads of places to explore and we've done the hard yards to get all that information right here in the one place.
Just a stone’s throw out of Ipswich, there’s a patch of bush that’s got everything a good hike should have — an interesting trail, great views, wildlife and tall timbers.Ipswich has an abundant number of walking trails, many of which are great tracks for both casual walkers and those with more experience who want more of a challenge.
With 12,000 acres of terrain, over 100km of trails and a whole heap of downhill fun to be had, Hidden Vale Adventure Park is the perfect place to run, explore, hike! Or, if you’re so inclined, throw yourself downhill on a mountain bike. “I guess the main attraction is being out in the open, fresh air and with your mates” Hayden Books, the park manager tells us. He’s spent the last 11 years perfecting the trails that cater to all levels of rider.
Your teens might be too old to hang out with Thomas at the rail museum these days, but there are still plenty of things to keep them (and you) entertained in and around Ipswich.Brisbane Valley Rail TrailCycle Australia’s longest rail trail or just do a section or two and enjoy picturesque rural scenery and a warm welcome at friendly towns that are evenly spaced along the way. All you need is a mountain bike, plenty of water and your sense of adventure. Find out more on the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail here.Floating Images Hot Air Balloon FlightsIt takes something pretty special to get a teenager out of bed before sunrise, but soaring over Ipswich in a Floating Images hot air balloon is definitely worth it. From the distant high rise of Brisbane’s CBD to a mob of kangaroos bouncing through the bush, it is amazing how much you can see from the air.
There’s lots to love about camping. The freedom, fresh air, the faint smell of last night’s campfire, warm marshmallows, the outdoors, wildlife, stars and the chance to sit down and actually talk with your friends and family … the list is endless.Do you know what’s not to love about camping? Setting up the tent. I can almost see you nodding in agreement. Arriving at your campsite to a tent that’s already set up sounds like bliss, right?Well, it is!
Celebrating a birthday is one of the most exciting times in a child's life – The cake, sprinkles, balloons and presents, what's not to love!If you have a upcoming birthday in your family but are stuck for ideas on how to make the day a memorable one, you're in luck, because we have made the task easier for you by composing a list of the top places in Ipswich to host a party.With lots of beautiful parks, animal experiences and adrenalin-fuelled activities, Ipswich is the perfect location for your next get together.
As Dr Andrew Tribe held out a stumpy tailed lizard, he asked the kids if they would like to hold it. My five-year-old daughter, who is clearly not a reptile fan, slowly shrank backwards to ensure that I was between her and the odd-looking lizard. My seven-year-old son simply said, ‘’Yes please!’’ and held his hands out. Dr Tribe, who runs the wildlife research centre at Spicers Hidden Vale, promptly plonked the armoured lizard into his hands and continued on with some fascinating facts.‘’Do you want to hold it mum?’’ he whispered.‘’Errr, no thanks,’’ I whispered back. To be honest, I could barely tell which end was its head and which was its tail.
Nestled inside the beautiful Queen’s Park is the jewel in Ipswich’s crown – The Ipswich Nature Centre.Home to some of the city’s cutest and fluffiest residents, the Ipswich Nature Centre is a safe haven for a wide range of Australian wildlife.As animal lovers make their way through the lush landscape gardens and exhibits, they can’t help but say “aww” when they see the cuddly wombat, or watch the pair of energetic dingoes that love to play and climb together.
Kayaking, boating and fishing... What better way to make a splash this spring and summer than by dipping a toe in at some of the greatest waterways in South East Queensland?And what better place to do so than right here in Ipswich? Central to both the Bremer and Brisbane River Systems, with a few river accessible parks to choose from, we've got exactly what you need...Colleges CrossingOf course, Colleges Crossing is the first place on the list. It's an obvious choice if you want something a little bit more civilised to complement your rugged exploration into nature.
Are we there yet Dad? Dad? Hey Mum, are we there yet? Mum mum mum muuuuuum?If this sounds familiar, you'll be pleased to know there’s a south-east Queensland destination you can reach from Brisbane, Toowoomba, the Gold and the Sunshine Coasts without a monotonous long haul drive.Say g’day to Ipswich, the historic city with a big country heart, packed with fun things for adventurous families to do.
