Great Trails of Ipswich – Twilight Blue Moon Guided Hike at White Rock Spring Mountain Conservation Estate
Experience White Rock–Spring Mountain on a guided walk to watch the blue moon rise as the sun sets. Meet birds and wildlife, and enjoy sweeping lookout views from Springfield to Mount Coot-tha with Brisbane’s lights twinkling in the distance. Explore history and nature on a memorable adventure together.
Daylight (Blue Moon) Guided Hike at White Rock – Spring Mountain
Experience the magic of a daytime moonrise over the ancient ridges of White Rock – Spring Mountain Conservation Estate. Watch pastel Blue Moon ascend into the afternoon sky while the sun sets over the Main Ridge Lookout.
We will head out from Paperbark Flats for a guided afternoon walking tour through this remarkable landscape. Your guide will share fascinating insights into the natural environment and rich history of White Rock – Spring Mountain, deepening your connection to this special place. Upon reaching the summit of the White Rock Ridge Track, we will take in the view of the sweeping landscape stretching from Springfield to Mount Coot-tha as the moon rises and the sun sinks below the horizon. Make sure you bring along snacks and water to refuel before we hike back.
On the return journey discover a different side of the estate as the day’s last light gives way to night. This rare experience offers the chance to encounter the furry locals and their feathery friends as they emerge and begin their twilight routines. Located just 20 minutes from the Ipswich Central Business District and 35 minutes from Brisbane Central Business District, White Rock – Spring Mountain Conservation Estate features the distinctive, sculptured, rocky outcrops of White Rock* and Spring Mountain. Covering over 2,500 hectares of regionally significant bushland, the Estate also features extensive forested ridges, escarpments and valleys that are home to an amazing array of plant and wildlife species. White Rock itself is registered Aboriginal Cultural Heritage and climbing it is prohibited.
The Experience
- Daylight Moonrise: Witness the rare sight of the ethereal lunar disc rising at 3:55 PM while the sun is still up.
- Golden Hour Trek: Hike the iconic trails as the ridges flush with warm twilight colours.
- Twilight Finale: Complete your trek under the serene glow of a near-peak Blue Moon as the sun retreats below the horizon.
Event Details
- Date: Saturday 30 May 2026
- Time: 2:15 PM for a 2.30 PM departure, returning at approx. 5:30 PM (Moonrise 3:56 PM | Sunset 5:02 PM)
Please plan ahead to arrive on time as courtesy to other guests, so the tour can depart and return on time. Unfortunately, the tour cannot be delayed for latecomers. You are advised to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to departure times.
- Location: White Rock Spring Mountain Conservation Estate, Paperbark Flats Picnic Area (end of Schools Road, Redbank Plains). Park in lower car park (located at the very end).
- Price: $20 Adult. $18 Concession/Child, $60 Family (2A,2C)* or (1A,3C)*
- Group Size: Strictly limited for an intimate experience
*Please note that this tour is not recommended for children under 8 years old. All patrons must be able to hike unassisted for the duration of the tour. Children up to the age of 17 years can be included into the family bundle. Please read important information below:
Numbers are strictly limited, book now to avoid disappointment.
Important information:
Is this activity suitable for me?
- Alcohol and drug free event
- This walk requires a reasonable level of fitness and good balance
- Secure enclosed footwear suited to bush walking is required
- This walk is expected to take around 3.5 hours
- The walk is an unsealed bush track of moderate difficulty and includes steep, rocky, loose and sloping surfaces
- The return walk will be after dark (headlamps provided)
- Wildlife including snakes may be encountered on this walk
- This walk is not suitable for prams or wheelchairs and or mobility aids.
Please bring
- Water
- Snacks
- Headlamp and/ or torch (we will have some headlamps available to borrow if required)
- Binoculars
- A light jacket
- Comfortable walking shoes and suitable clothing
You will be required to read and acknowledge the Risk, Responsibility & Waiver Form when booking, and is available to read here: Risk Waiver Acknowledgement
*This Estate remains sacred to the Traditional Owners of Ipswich. Some of the Cultural Landscapes within this estate include White Rock, the caves and outcrop overhangs. These sacred sites are very important to the Traditional Owners as they provide a link between Country and personal identity and allow the passing on of cultural knowledge. As per Cultural Protocol the Traditional Owners have requested no one climbs White Rock. Pictured above is the view from the Main Ridge Lookout.
Acknowledgement of Country
Ipswich City Council respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners as custodians of the land and waters with which we share. We pay our respects to elders past, present and emerging, as the keepers of traditions, customs, cultures and stories of proud peoples.
- Carpark
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