Brisbane, with its beautiful surroundings and diverse landscapes, offers some of the most stunning scenic drives in Queensland. From lush rainforests to coastal escapes, there’s no shortage of breathtaking routes to explore just a short drive from the city. But before you embark on any road trip, one of the most important things to check is your car’s tyres. Proper tyre care ensures a safe and smooth journey, preventing breakdowns or accidents along the way. In this blog, we'll highlight the top 5 scenic drives near Brisbane and give you tips on how to prepare your tyres for a stress-free road trip.
1. The Glass House Mountains Scenic Drive
Located about an hour’s drive north of Brisbane, the Glass House Mountains offer some of the most striking views of ancient volcanic peaks rising dramatically from the landscape. This scenic drive takes you through quaint towns like Beerwah and Glass House, and along the way, you can stop at lookout points that provide breathtaking panoramic views of the mountains and surrounding valleys.
Preparing Your Tyres for the Glass House Mountains Drive: Before heading out, ensure your tyres are properly inflated. Driving on under inflated tyres can increase rolling resistance, making it harder to control your vehicle on winding mountain roads. Check your car’s manual for the recommended tyre pressure and adjust accordingly. Additionally, inspect your tyres for uneven wear, cuts, or bulges, as these could worsen on the steep inclines and sharp curves of the Glass House Mountains.
2. The Sunshine Coast Hinterland
The Sunshine Coast Hinterland offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of Brisbane. The scenic drive from Brisbane to towns like Maleny and Montville is about 1.5 hours long and takes you through rolling hills, rainforests, and picturesque countryside. Along the way, you can stop at the beautiful Kondalilla Falls National Park or visit local markets and cafes in Montville.
Tyre Preparation for the Sunshine Coast Hinterland: Since this drive involves both highway stretches and winding country roads, it’s important to check your tyre tread depth. Worn tyres have reduced grip, which can be dangerous, especially if you encounter wet or slippery roads. Use a tread depth gauge to measure the grooves on your tyres, ensuring they meet the minimum legal requirement of 1.5 mm in Australia. If the tread is low, consider replacing your tyres before embarking on this journey.
3. The Gold Coast to Springbrook National Park
Just a short drive south of Brisbane, the Gold Coast offers not only beaches but also easy access to the stunning Springbrook National Park. The scenic drive up to Springbrook takes you through lush rainforests, past waterfalls, and to the incredible Natural Bridge, where you can see glow worms after sunset. The winding roads and elevation changes make for an exciting and picturesque drive.
Preparing Your Tyres for the Gold Coast-Springbrook Route:Given the varying terrains and elevations, it’s essential to balance your tyres before starting the trip. Unbalanced tyres can cause vibrations at higher speeds, making the drive less comfortable and increasing wear on your suspension. Visit your local tyre shop to have your tyres balanced if you notice unusual vibrations. Additionally, check for any visible signs of damage, such as cracks or punctures, as these could worsen on the rugged roads leading to Springbrook.
4. The Brisbane Valley Rail Trail
For those looking to combine a road trip with a bit of outdoor adventure, the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail offers the perfect escape. This scenic drive leads to Australia’s longest rail trail, stretching from Wulkuraka near Ipswich to Yarraman. Along the way, you’ll pass through historical towns like Esk and Toogoolawah, where you can explore old railway stations and enjoy country hospitality.
Tyre Preparation for the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail: Since the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail includes rural and gravel roads, it’s crucial to check for any signs of damage that could affect your tyres' durability on uneven surfaces. Before heading out, perform a visual inspection for any sharp objects embedded in the tyre tread and check the sidewalls for bulges or cracks. For this route, consider carrying a spare tyre and ensuring your tyre-changing tools are in good condition, as remote areas may not have quick roadside assistance.
5. The Scenic Rim Drive
About an hour’s drive south of Brisbane, the Scenic Rim offers some of the most spectacular natural landscapes in the region. This drive takes you through lush rainforests, past volcanic peaks, and to charming country towns like Boonah and Canungra. Highlights include the Lamington National Park and Mount Tamborine, where you can enjoy bushwalks, waterfalls, and breathtaking views.
Tyre Preparation for the Scenic Rim: As this drive involves a mix of winding roads, steep climbs, and occasionally wet conditions, ensuring proper alignment and rotation of your tyres is important. Misaligned tyres can cause uneven wear, affecting your vehicle’s handling and fuel efficiency, especially on curvy roads. Visit your local tyre service provider to have your tyres aligned and rotated if you haven’t done so recently. Also, double-check your spare tyre to ensure it’s fully inflated and ready in case of an emergency.
General Tyre Maintenance Tips Before a Road Trip
In addition to the specific preparation tips for each scenic drive, there are a few general tyre maintenance steps every driver should follow before hitting the road:
- Check Tyre Pressure: Under inflated or overinflated tyres can affect your vehicle's handling, fuel efficiency, and safety. Always check your tyre pressure before a long drive, using a reliable tyre gauge. Refer to your vehicle’s manual for the correct pressure settings.
- Inspect Tyre Tread: Worn treads reduce traction, especially on wet or slippery roads. Make sure your tyres have adequate tread depth to ensure optimal grip during your road trip. Look carefully for punctures or stuck road debris. If it is not too close to the tyre sidewall these can usually be repaired cheaply.
- Check for Visible Damage: Scan your tyres for any visible cuts, cracks, bulges, or punctures. These could worsen during the trip, increasing the risk of a blowout.
- Balance and Align Tyres: Misaligned or unbalanced tyres can cause vibrations, uneven wear, and poor handling. If you notice your car pulling to one side or vibrating at higher speeds, it’s a good idea to have your tyres checked by a professional.
- Carry a Spare and Tools: Always have a spare tyre, a jack, and the necessary tools in your car. Make sure the spare tyre is in good condition and properly inflated before leaving for your trip.
Conclusion
Brisbane is surrounded by scenic drives that offer incredible views, from the volcanic peaks of the Glass House Mountains to the rainforests of the Scenic Rim. But before you hit the road, it’s important to make sure your tyres are in top condition. Proper tyre preparation not only ensures a safe and comfortable trip but also prevents the frustration of unexpected tyre issues along the way. By following the tyre maintenance tips outlined above, you’ll be ready to explore Brisbane’s best scenic drives with peace of mind.
