The Logan and Albert rivers offer paddlers plenty of great trails to explore. Whether paddling for exercise, fishing or a fun family cruise, there’s a trail for everyone to enjoy. 

This guide can help you get active on the water and discover our rich history and diverse natural areas.

About the rivers

Logan and Albert rivers begin their journeys in World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests on the New South Wales / Queensland border ranges. They wind down through Logan's farmlands, bushland blocks, urban suburbs and tidal flats. Albert River joins the Logan River around Eagleby and the rivers complete their journey by emptying into Moreton Bay.

Cultural and historic roots

Our rivers are a rich resource and place of spiritual significance for Traditional Custodians including peoples of the Yuggera and Yugambeh language groups. They were also important in the establishment and growth of the early European settlements in the region.Learn more about the history of the rivers, plants and animals the rivers support by exploring the Logan River Trail interpretive signage in our Logan River parks (featured on this trail).

Explore and discover

There are many interesting things to discover along the rivers in our region. Follow our canoe and kayak trails to experience them all. Before you leave, download our:

• Logan and Albert Rivers canoe and kayak map (PDF 4.17 MB)
• Naeus app - this is a great tool you can use to explore our region.

Make sure you follow our safety advice and learn how to use our canoe and kayak entry and exit platforms.

Trails

Riedel Park, Carbrook

Near the mouth of the Logan River, fresh water and salt water meet. Here, lay some of the largest stretches of saltmarsh found in South East Queensland. Learn more about this vulnerable area on the Logan River Trail signs at Riedel Park. River access is via the boat ramp.

Skinners Park, Carbrook

Are you a keen angler? Have you ever tried fishing from a canoe or kayak before? Why not ‘drop in a line’ as you paddle along the Canoe and Kayak Trail. Use the Logan River Trail signs at Skinners Park to discover more about the bustling aquatic community that lies beneath the surface. River access is via an entry / exit platform on the pontoon located closest to the boat ramp.

Logan River Parklands, Beenleigh

Like Brisbane’s Storey Bridge, the Red Bridge stands strong as a defining landmark of Logan. When it opened in 1931, the Red Bridge provided nearby communities with a reliable and permanent way to cross the Logan River. Paddle under this icon at Logan River Parklands. River access is via an entry / exit platform on the pontoon located closest to the boat ramp.

Alexander Clark Park, Loganholme

As you paddle by Alexander Clark Park, park keep a keen eye out for Koalas. This park provides habitat for our region’s threatened flora and fauna. You can also find a great walking track, playground and picnic facilities. River access is via an entry / exit platform on the pontoon located on the southern side of the park.

Riverdale Park, Meadowbrook

Start at Riverdale Park for a scenic paddle up Slacks Creek where you will encounter a myriad of bird life. Make sure you also check out the extensive walking trails that wind through picturesque Riverdale Park. River access is via an entry / exit platform on the pontoon located within the park.

Federation Drive Reserve, Bethania

Stop at Federation Drive Reserve for a stretch during your paddle and while you’re there, check out the Logan River Trail ‘Welcome to Country’ sign. River access is via the boat ramp.

Larry Storey Park, Waterford

The sandy beach at Larry Storey Park makes for one of the easiest launching points along the Trail, especially for beginners. The Greater Logan Paddler Club holds regular training and ‘come and try’ sessions from this park. Access the river beside the boat ramp.

Albert River Park, Eagleby

Fancy a paddle between Albert River Park and Skinners Park? Here you can challenge yourself to paddle one of the longest stretches on the Logan and Albert River Canoe and Kayak Trail. During the paddle you will cruise past Eagleby Wetlands, home to over 200 bird species including 19 of the 24 Australian Raptors. Access the river using our pontoon entry / exit platform in the northern part of the park (closest to Ramu Street).

How to use our canoe/kayak access platforms

To enter your watercraft:

To exit your watercraft:

You can find more information and entry/exit videos on Paddle Australia’s website or the Paddle Prep mobile app.

Paddle safely

• Plan your route and always paddle with a friend.
• Tell someone where you are going and your expected return time.
• Check weather conditions and water temperature before you leave.
• Beware of winds, tides and currents that make it harder to enter and exit your watercraft and paddle.
• Prepare for changes in weather and the possibility of a capsize. In cold water, a wetsuit or dry suit can keep you warm and comfortable. In warm weather, wear a long sleeve shirt, hat and sunscreen to provide sun protection
• Consider the paddling experience and fitness level of your group. Groups of 3 or 4 are recommended for longer paddle trips.
• Always wear a personal flotation device (PFD), check the condition of your safety equipment and pack the following gear in a waterproof container:
  • mobile phone with emergency contacts
  • Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB)
  • hat and waterproof jacket
  • food and drinking water
  • first aid kit
  • maps, including our Logan and Albert Rivers canoe and kayak map
  • sunscreen and insect repellent.
• Paddle with the tide, and close to the shore
• Look out for boats, jetskis and anglers.
• Never exceed the weight capacity of your watercraft. Always check your equipment for wear and tear before you paddle.
• Seek qualified instruction to learn proper paddling techniques, water safety and basic first aid.
• Protect the environment:
  • take your rubbish home
  • discard fishing line appropriately
  • observe plants and animals, don’t disturb them
  • only use designated access points.

You are responsible for your own safety. With all recreational activities, there is always the possibility of injury or death. Always use common sense and follow the safety rules at all times.

On entering our rivers you are acknowledge:

• you are aware of unanticipated risks which may include physical injury, drowning and death
• you understand and accept the risks and conditions of our rivers.

Sharing our waterways

The City of Logan has two major River systems (Logan River and Albert River) as well creeks, wetlands and dams. These natural areas provide many recreational opportunities such as fishing, paddling and boating. Our waterways and waterbodies are also home to a variety of plants, animals and microorganisms. It is important to know that some of these are potentially dangerous. These include:

• sharks
• catfish
• stonefish
• algae and other microorganisms.

You can find these life forms living in salty, brackish and fresh water throughout Logan.

When enjoying our waterways, act responsibly. Be aware you may encounter potentially dangerous species.

Be aware of bull sharks

How to minimise the risk of an encounter with a shark:

• Don’t swim in lakes, near estuary mouths or in murky waters.
• Leave the water immediately if you see a shark.
• Don’t swim after dusk, at night or before dawn.
• Never swim alone or with animals such as your dog.
• Avoid swimming near schools of fish.

Be aware of stonefish and catfish

• Watch where you are walking in the water - stonefish and catfish can be very hard to see.
• Wear shoes if walking in the water.
• Avoid handling stonefish and catfish. When fishing, it’s often safer to cut the line or use long pliers to remove hooks.

Be aware of dangerous micro-organisms including algae

• Pay attention to advisory signs about dangerous micro-organisms like blue-green algae. These algae are generally found in warm, still water.
• Most micro-organisms are harmless but dangerous species can be present at any time.
• Avoid water that has discolouration or a strong smell.
• After heavy rainfall or floods, avoid contact with waterways for up to five days. High water levels can carry harmful bacteria and potential risks into waterways.

Read more about blue-green algae.