The Gold Creek Dam training hike is one you will not want to miss!
This unique location has it all, with unique Australian wildlife, stunning ridgeline views, and waterfront trails. Located only ten minutes from the Brisbane Kokoda Challenge start line in Brookfield, this trail will give eager participants insight into what to expect at the event.
The walk itself is moderately challenging, with steep climbs and descents, but a large portion of the 6km return route is made up of rolling fire trails.
BEFORE YOU GO:
This location has limited mobile phone reception. To ensure you don't get lost, please download the AllTrails map before heading out to the starting location.
As there are no places to refill water, you will need to have your water bladder or bottles full before arriving for your hike. We also recommend taking some electrolytes and snacks with you to ensure you are well nourished during the walk.
This route is made up of fire trails and single file bushwalking. Along portions of the track, you will navigate through overgrown, dense shrubbery. You will need to be extra vigilant for snakes and spiders during this part of the track and we recommend wearing longer pants or gaiters as an extra precaution. For peace of mind, it is always good to pack a snake bandage in case of emergencies.
Be sure to slip, slop, slap before starting the walk and always let someone know when you are going on a hike with limited mobile phone reception.
HOW TO GET THERE:
Starting address: Gold Creek Rd, Brookfield QLD 4069
Finding the starting point is relatively easy (famous last words). Follow Gold Creek Road until you reach the reservoir. There are some single lane sections along the road, so be sure to take it slow and enjoy the serine setting. This area is also home to a lot of native wildlife, be on the lookout for any of our furry friends trying to cross the road.
Once you reach the end of the road, you’ll be able to park and lock your car. At this point, be sure to start your All-Trails mapping and follow the directions provided.
DURATION:
We recommend at least two hours to complete the out and back route.
Along the track you will have the opportunity to venture down various off trails that could increase the duration of your hike. If you are up for a challenge, be sure to check out some of the advanced trails that boast intense uphill battles, and grueling descents.
Please note that weather conditions can impact how long it takes to complete a hike. Be sure to allow extra time if it is a hot day or if it is raining.
DIFFICULTY:
This hike is considered moderate in terms of its difficulty, although there are various off trails you can take to increase the intensity. The trail has a great mix of rolling ridgeline walks and challenging hills. It also offers the opportunity for hikers of all experience levels to challenge themselves.
This trail does not contain any creek crossings so there is no need to pack your water shoes. However, with the trail containing dense shrubbery and overgrown sections, we recommend swapping out the water shoes for Bushman’s insect repellant. Navigating through the shrubbery may be the hardest part of this walk, so be sure you are prepared to walk into a few spider webs (we recommend using a stick to clear the path in front of you!).
More seasoned hikers, or those who are feeling courageous, are encouraged to challenge themselves by adding to the duration of the hike. Simply follow the trails labelled “ADVANCED” by signposts and track your movements using the All-Trails map. Remember, if you ever feel like you are getting lost, refer to the map and make your way back to familiar territory.
Up for an even bigger challenge? Register for the Kokoda Challenge now!
ABOUT THE TRAIL:
At the start of the trail, you will walk past the community nursery and towards a small bridge. If you follow the trail to the left, you will be led up your first hill! Upon reaching the top, you will be rewarded with a jaw-dropping view of the dam. Here, we recommend taking a “BEFORE” and “AFTER” shot of your hike to post on Instagram and be sure to tag @kokodachallenge!
The fire trail sections of this walk are well marked and easy to navigate. However, the single file sections will require some extra attention. If you are ever in doubt (or just get easily lost like me), be sure to check your All Trails map to ensure you are still on the right track.
The trail itself is surrounded by native Australian flora and fauna. You will not be able to escape the refreshing smells of fresh eucalyptus, bush mint, and paperbark. Since you won’t have phone service; this is a great opportunity for you to disconnect from technology for a day and reconnect with your surroundings. The area is home to many butterflies, native birds, and mammals. If you look hard enough, you might even spot some koalas snoozing!
This trail will give you a taste of what we have in stall for you at the Brisbane Kokoda Challenge event.
If you haven’t already, be sure to register your team via the link below!
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