Granite countryBiggenden & surrounds

Biggenden: Mount Walsh to Paradise Dam

Climb dramatic peaks then unwind beside a wide Burnett River dam

Biggenden anchors your North Burnett adventure with Mount Walsh National Park, Paradise Dam recreation days, and steel artworks celebrating rural resilience.

Mount WalshParadise DamChowey Bridge

Mount Walsh’s granite cliffs rise abruptly from grazing country, offering adventurous hikers a chance to scramble across wind-carved boulders for sweeping Burnett views. Back in town, steel artworks of a rose and bottle tree pay tribute to the district’s pioneers, while the country bakery and pub swap summit stories with travellers.

A short drive north delivers Paradise Dam’s calm waters for kayaking, fishing, and sunset photography. Continue to the 1905 Chowey Bridge or the volcanic Coalstoun Lakes for a deeper dive into Biggenden’s layered landscapes.

Scale Mount Walsh National Park

Hit the trail early to make the most of the cool morning air on the Mount Walsh summit route. The path begins with an easy forest walk before the scramble to the rocky bluff, where wedge-tailed eagles soar on thermals above Biggenden township.

Not keen on a full climb? Choose the Waterfall Creek picnic area for gentler rock pools and lookouts. Rangers update track alerts regularly—check conditions after rain.

Pack sturdy footwear, plenty of water, and allow three to four hours for the return summit hike.

Cool off at Paradise Dam

Paradise Dam’s broad spillway and shady campsites make it the region’s go-to recreation spot. Launch a kayak for sunrise reflections, try your luck catching Australian bass, or simply stretch out on the grassy foreshore with a picnic.

Facilities include boat ramps, toilets, barbecues, and powered campsites. Rangers host seasonal events and family-friendly damper cook-ups during school holidays.

Wander Biggenden’s heritage highlights

Cruise the 15-minute drive to Chowey Bridge, one of Queensland’s earliest concrete railway bridges, now framed by tranquil bushland. Back in town, pose beside the giant Rose and Bottle Tree sculptures then browse the main street’s antiques and farm supplies.

With extra time, head south to Coalstoun Lakes National Park where short walks lead to volcanic crater viewpoints alive with birdlife after rain.

Plan ahead

Plan your Biggenden base

Blend summit hikes with slow afternoons by the water. Local operators offer shuttle services, kayak hire, and farm-fresh hampers perfect for Paradise Dam picnics.

Mount Walsh summit for confident hikersParadise Dam camping (book ahead)Coalstoun Lakes add-on
Check park alerts
Mount Walsh tracks can close after storms—review Queensland Parks updates before you drive.
Bring grippy footwear
Granite slabs become slick in dew—good boots or trail shoes make the scramble safer.
Reserve Paradise Dam sites
Powered and unpowered camping areas fill quickly during long weekends. Pre-book to secure a riverside spot.
Time for heritage detours
Allow an extra hour for Chowey Bridge and the Biggenden Rose & Bottle Tree sculptures in town.

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