Imbil is a small village in the Mary Valley, in the hills behind the Sunshine Coast, with a hilltop lookout, a rail trail, a creek walk under old jacaranda trees and a historic pub on the main street. It is about 160 km by road from Brisbane, so most people come on a scenic drive up the valley rather than a quick day trip.
Imbil sits on Yabba Creek and has a population of about 1,000. Allow a day for a slow loop: the lookout, a walk or ride on the rail trail, lunch in the village and a stroll along the creek.
Imbil Lookout
The lookout is the best free view in town. It sits about 800 metres up Elizabeth Street from the main road, near the IGA, and looks towards the coast and the hills to the north, east and west. A compass podium names the distant features, including Mount Cooroy, about 28 km away. Entry is free and the site is open at any time.
The road up is steep and it is too steep for caravans. There are only about four car spaces at the top, and turning a camper trailer around can be difficult. There are no toilets, bins or water, so use the facilities in the village first. There are picnic tables, a grassed area and a bench seat above the car park.
Mary Valley Rail Trail: Imbil to Brooloo
The Mary Valley Rail Trail follows the old railway line between Imbil and Brooloo. The section is about 5 km each way on gravel, mostly flat, so an out-and-back walk or ride is about 9.5 km. It is partly shaded, so take water in summer. It is free to use.
The village, Yabba Creek and the jacaranda walk
A short walk winds between old jacaranda trees on the village green down to Yabba Creek. It is a good spot for a picnic, and it is at its best in spring, when the jacarandas flower and make a purple canopy. Visit Sunshine Coast’s pages call it Timber Cutters’ Walk and Timberman’s Walk.
The village also has a library on Yabba Road and a Sunday market. Imbil Town and Country Bakery is known for its vanilla slice, and the Railway Hotel, built in 1914, is known for roast dinners and big serves.
Paddling and platypus on the Mary River
Ride On Mary runs guided kayak and canoe tours on the Mary River from Imbil. Early risers have the best chance of seeing platypus, kangaroos and wallabies, and the operator collects you at the end of the trip. Prices are on the operator’s website, so check before you book.
Camping near Imbil
Imbil Camping Retreat, on Imbil Island Road beside Yabba Creek, has hot showers and toilets, and kayaks and canoes you can hire from the office. Book direct for current prices. Charlie Moreland camping area in Imbil State Forest is a Queensland Parks campground near Kenilworth, a separate trip from the village, and access depends on the weather.
Planning your visit
- How long: half a day for the village and lookout; a full day with the rail trail or a paddle.
- Best time: spring for the jacarandas; mornings for platypus and cooler walking.
- Cost: the lookout, the village green and the rail trail are free. Food, tours and camping are extra.
- What to bring: water, a hat, sunscreen and sturdy shoes for the gravel rail trail; cash or card for the market.
- Accessibility: a listing for Imbil Lookout says it is wheelchair accessible, but the road up is steep and parking is tight.
Getting there and parking
Imbil is about 160 km by road from the Brisbane CBD, about 2 hours 10 minutes by car without traffic. From the Bruce Highway, take exit 244 and follow the signs for the Mary Valley Tourist Drive (Route 42) through Kenilworth Skyring Creek Road and Mary Valley Road into Imbil. The Mary Valley scenic drive page has the full route. From Gympie, Mary Valley Road leads to Kandanga Imbil Road and into the village over the Yabba Creek bridge.
No public transport to Imbil was found, so plan to drive. Check the Translink Journey Planner or call 13 12 30 if you want to be sure.
Nearby
- Conondale National Park – creeks, walks and camping in the ranges.
- Kenilworth – about 16 km away.
- Pomona – about 21 km away.
Browse more Sunshine Coast Hinterland places and scenic drives, or see the Sunshine Coast markets guide.
You might also like
- Baroon Pocket Dam – a lake for picnics and paddling in the same hinterland.
- Kondalilla Falls – a waterfall walk on the Blackall Range.
- Maleny – a bigger hinterland town with markets and cafes.
- Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve – rainforest walks near Maleny.
Quick answers
Is Imbil worth visiting?
Yes, if you like country villages and slow drives. It has a free lookout, a rail trail, a creek walk, a bakery and a historic pub.
How far is Imbil from Brisbane?
About 160 km by road, about 2 hours 10 minutes by car without traffic.
Is Imbil Lookout free?
Yes, and it is open at any time. It has about four car spaces and no toilets.
How long is the Imbil to Brooloo rail trail?
About 5 km one way on gravel, or about 9.5 km out and back. The trail is free.
Is there a market in Imbil?
Yes, Imbil has a Sunday market. Check the organisers for the venue and hours before you go.
Where can you camp near Imbil?
Imbil Camping Retreat, on Imbil Island Road, has hot showers and toilets. Charlie Moreland camping area in Imbil State Forest is another option.
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