17km circular trail on graded track, with elevation gain 501m.
We will meet at Lake Manchester day use area (toilets, BBQ, picnic tables, carpark) which is near Kholo, about 25km west of Brisbane off Lake Manchester Road. The last section of road is gravel but well maintained.
Starting and ending at the day use area, this is a clockwise loop in the hills around Lake Manchester through a conservation park adjacent to the D’Aguilar Range National Park (Brisbane Forest Park section).
The route uses forest/fire roads which are well graded but a covering of loose gravel means caution must be taken on descents. There are some steep inclines followed by steep descents, some of which are very slippery even with hiking boots. These hills are balanced with a lot of flat walking time in between.
Most of the walk is through open eucalypt and ironbark forests with plenty of birdlife. The loop passes a small hut, and for the most part the trail is open with some shade provided by trees, and views of the lake in some sections.
Bring at least 2.5L water, boots, hat, morning tea and lunch for the rest-stops, and the usual day walk gear. Poles may be helpful for the steep parts.
We may have afternoon tea in the day-use area after the walk – you can bring and leave this in the car.
Carpooling to be arranged closer to the time. Please indicate in the comments below if you need a lift, or are willing to drive and take passengers, or prefer to drive and meet there.
Contact – Kerrie Coulter (0402 130 759)