Griffith
Griffith
Gympie
Gympie
Driving

Griffith to Gympie

Updated: 26 May 2026

The journey from Griffith to Gympie is a significant 1550 km trek north. You will traverse the Newell Highway through New South Wales before connecting to the Bruce Highway in Queensland. Gympie is known as the gateway to the Cooloola Coast and the Fraser Coast. This route is best suited for those who enjoy long-distance driving and want to experience the transition from the inland plains to the lush Queensland coastal region.

Total Distance: 1550 km driving distance; 1150 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Flying from Griffith to Brisbane and driving to Gympie takes approximately 8 hours.
Cheapest Way
Driving is the most cost-effective way to reach Gympie, especially for families.
Compare Griffith to Gympie Routes
Driving
Direct
Duration
18 hours
Avg Price
400-500 AUD
Operator
Personal Vehicle
Route
B85 Newell Highway to Brisbane, then M1 Bruce Highway north to Gympie.

The Bruce Highway north of Brisbane is a major arterial road; expect heavy freight traffic.

Travel Tips
  • Break Up the Drive
    Plan an overnight stop in a town like Goondiwindi to avoid driving 18 hours straight.
  • Traffic Reports
    Use the QLD Traffic website to monitor roadworks on the Bruce Highway.
  • Fuel Efficiency
    Maintain a steady speed to optimize fuel consumption on the long highway stretches.
  • Local Produce
    Stop at roadside stalls in the Mary Valley for fresh local fruit.
  • Navigation
    Download offline maps as signal can be weak in parts of the inland route.
Safety Tips
  • Fatigue Management
    Do not push through exhaustion; find a motel if you feel tired.
  • Wildlife
    Be vigilant for stray livestock and kangaroos on rural roads.
  • Vehicle Check
    Check your tire pressure before leaving Griffith.
  • Emergency Kit
    Carry a basic tool kit and spare water in your vehicle.
People Also Ask
  • How far is Gympie from Brisbane?
    Gympie is approximately 160 km north of Brisbane.
  • Is there a train to Gympie?
    Yes, the Spirit of Queensland train stops at Gympie North station.
  • What is the best route from Griffith?
    The Newell Highway is the most reliable route for this distance.
  • Are there tolls on the way to Gympie?
    Yes, you will encounter tolls on the motorways around Brisbane.
  • Can I fly to Gympie?
    No, the nearest major airport is in Brisbane or the Sunshine Coast.
Quick Info
  • From Griffith, New South Wales, Australia
  • To Gympie, Queensland, Australia
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

Autumn (March to May) offers the most stable weather for this long drive.

Things to Do in Gympie
1
Gympie Gold Mining Museum
Discover the town's rich gold mining history through interactive displays and historic buildings.
2
Mary Valley Rattler
Take a ride on this historic steam train through the scenic Mary Valley.
3
Woodworks Museum
Learn about the timber industry that helped build the region.
4
Lake Alford Park
A great spot for a break, featuring a large lake and picnic facilities.
Tags
Griffith to Gympie Gympie travel driving NSW to QLD Newell Highway Gympie transport long distance driving Queensland road trip Griffith to Sunshine Coast