Discover these great drive day trips around Rockhampton

Image credit: Sean Scott Photography

TOOT TOOT

If you’re in town for a few days, then why not experience one of the many great drives in and around Rockhampton to discover the hidden gems of our region. These drives are suitable for caravans but caution should be taken on winding roads.

ROCKHAMPTON TO MOUNT MORGAN

Enjoy the picturesque rural landscape on your drive from Rockhampton to Mount Morgan before hitting the beautiful winding road up the mountain. For rewarding views overlooking the Mount Morgan Range, take the Burnett Highway through Bouldercombe, stopping in at the Stopford Way Lookout. Alternatively, take the Razorback Road route via Gracemere and Kabra.

This drive is approximately 35 minutes each way but we recommend taking your time, soaking in the views and exploring the historic town of Mount Morgan for the day.

Top sites to see:
Mount Morgan Railway Museum
Mount Morgan Historical Museum
Mount Morgan No 7 Dam
Arthur Timms Lookout
Mount Morgan Bakery

CAPRICORN COAST & EMU PARK

For a leisurely drive rewarded by stunning ocean views and sleepy seaside towns, set the GPS for the Capricorn Coast. Starting in Rockhampton, head to Yeppoon via Yeppoon Road.

After a pit stop strolling down James Street, head out to Emu Park via the Scenic Highway. There’s a number of pristine beaches to stop in at along the way so take your time.

Emu Park is a quaint seaside town, making for a perfect lunch stop before stretching your legs along the seaside ANZAC Memorial Walk and Australia’s Singing Ship.

Take the Emu Park Road back to Rockhampton, stopping in at Koorana Crocodile Farm.

Top sites to see:
James Street, Yeppoon
Yeppoon Lagoon, Yeppoon
Turtle Lookout, Rosslyn Bay
Wreck Point Lookout, Matthew Flinders Drive, Cooee Bay
ANZAC Memorial Walk and Australia’s Singing Ship, Tennent Memorial Drive, Emu Park
Koorana Crocodile Farm

MOUNT ARCHER (NURIM)

Mount Archer’s silhouette provides a stunning backdrop to Rockhampton’s vista, but the views from the top are even more breathtaking.

From Rockhampton’s CBD, head East along Moores Creek Road towards the leafy suburb of Frenchville. Follow Frenchville Road before turning right onto Pilbeam Drive and taking the 5km road up the mountain. The summit is windy so take caution.

Once at the top, pull into Fraser Park and head for the 500m elevated boardwalk, Nurim Circuit. Take in the views and check out the interpretive signage of the local Darumbal culture. The boardwalk is popular with locals and tourists alike wanting to catch the spectacular sunrises and sunsets so don’t forget your camera!

Top sites to see:
Nurim Circuit 500m elevated tree top boardwalk 
Amphitheatre 
Darumbal interpretive signage
Kids adventure playground
Walking and hiking trails 

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Written by Explore Rockhampton
@explorerockhampton