Frequently asked questions

    Trail network

    Q. Are there maps of the horse trail network?

    Look for SEQ horse riding trail network map data through Queensland Globe.

    Beofre you get started, read more information on Queensland Globe's Help menu.

    Note: Horse riding is permitted on some national parks and conservation parks where indicated by regulatory signage. Horse riding can generally occur on State forests and lands managed by HQ Plantations Pty Ltd, subject to operational requirements.

    Q. Are the SEQ horse riding trails multi-use?

    Yes. The SEQ horse riding trail network is located on formed management roads that are generally open to other users. Depending on the trail, horse riders can expect to come across walkers, mountain bikes, motorbikes and 4WDs.

    Q. Are the trails signed?

    Regulatory notices  indicate where horse riding is permitted under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 and Forestry Act 1959, and information signs and directional markers mark the trails.

    Q. Can I still ride in State forests?

    Yes. Horse riding access to State forests is not affected by the SEQ horse riding trail network. Horse riding is generally allowed in State forests and some plantation areas, subject to the requirements of HQ Plantations Pty Ltd.

    Q. What arrangements will be made for trail management?

    As the horse trail network occurs along formed management roads, trails will be managed by QPWS staff as part of their normal road maintenance schedule.

    Where appropriate, QPWS may arrange with local Government and stakeholders to work cooperatively to maintain trails.

    Compliance

    Q. Will I need a permit?

    A special permit is generally not required for riding on the SEQ horse riding trail network, unless it is a commercial activity, a competitive event, and may be required for an organised event.

    Horse riders' access to the horse riding trail network will be permitted by regulatory signage.

    Q. Do I have to stay on trails?

    Yes. It is an offence under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 and Forestry Act 1959 to ride anywhere other than the identified trails, and on-the-spot fines will apply.

    Q. What is the code of conduct?

    The code of conduct is a set of guidelines for horse riders to minimise their impact on QPWS managed areas, and ensure they are meeting the legislative requirements of the Nature Conservation Act 1992 and the Forestry Act 1959. The code provides standards of conduct that aim to minimise or eliminate the potential impacts of horse riding:

    • soil erosion
    • trampling and grazing impacts
    • the introduction and spread of noxious and exotic plants
    • damage to waterways
    • damage to significant and environmentally sensitive areas
    • disturbance and displacement of flora and fauna
    • damage to cultural sites
    • conflict with other users.

    Horse riders are encouraged to ride responsibly on identified park trails by following the code of conduct. To support the effective management of horse riding, the code will be supported by offence provisions.

    Safety

    Q. Are the trails suitable for all riders to use?

    The SEQ horse riding trail network caters for a range of experience levels, and is therefore not necessarily suitable for all levels of skill and experience. Horse riders are responsible for riding within their limits and are encouraged to contact their nearest QPWS office or visitor information centre for details about local conditions.

    Conservation

    Q. What is being monitored as part of the scientific monitoring program?

    A detailed scientific monitoring program is in progress to monitor any potential detrimental impacts that result from horse riding on protected areas. It is a long-term program (20 years) with regular points of review.

    In addressing any potential impacts, the department will adapt its management practices in response to the findings of the monitoring program. Management strategies will also be developed appropriate for areas and their particular ecological needs.

    A number of on-site strategies might be employed to address sites affected by increased erosion, including:

    • fencing critical habitats
    • hardening of trail surfaces
    • improving drainage
    • establishing silt traps and other infrastructure
    • providing designated watering areas for horses
    • restricted use of trails
    • temporary closure of trails.

    Trail use will be monitored to ensure compliance with the code of conduct.