Warwick Paddle Trail - QLD

The Warwick Paddle Trail has two parts. The first is a 2.25 kilometre stretch between the Queens Park footbridge and SCOTS Weir. There are magnificent river red gums on the banks. Friendly locals in the neighbouring parklands are happy to share a smile and a wave, and sometimes even a conversation. The railway line passes overhead and if you are lucky you might even catch a glimpse of the iconic Downs Explorer steam train. Getting on and off the water is easy at the Federation Park launch site. There is a concrete ramp that can be reached via Victoria Street.

The second part of the Warwick Paddle Trail begins on the upstream side of SCOTS Weir. From there, it is an easy 2 kilometre paddle to the broken remains of an old causeway. If you portage (carry your kayak over or around) the causeway and the water level is high enough, you can continue for another 6 kilometres to Braithwaites Crossing. The further you go, the more fun you have when you ride the flow of the river back to the weir. Highlights of this peaceful part of the river include sandstone caves, the chance to watch rakali in their natural home, and more eastern water dragons than you can poke a stick at. The main access point is at the southern end of the weir on the corner of East Street and Condamine Street. However, if you launch from Federation Park, it is sometimes possible to portage the weir on the southern side of the river. Please note that portages should only be attempted if you are 100% confident of completing them successfully.