Brisbane: Story Bridge Climb with Guide & Group Photo

Summary

Climb Brisbane’s iconic bridge for sweeping river and city views

You’ll start your Story Bridge adventure in Brisbane with a friendly local guide and a quick safety demo before gearing up for the climb itself. Feel your nerves settle as you rise above the city, pausing for stories and laughs along the way. At the top, take in sweeping views and snap a group photo — then head back down with shaky legs and a new perspective on Brisbane.

What’s the experience like?

I almost missed the start because I’d forgotten about the breath test — turns out you really do need to be under .05 to climb the Story Bridge. The staff at the base were patient though (I was flustered), and our guide, Sam, had this way of making everyone laugh about their harnesses feeling “like a wedgie from the future.” You could smell rain on the metal, but it held off, just clouds drifting over the river. I kept fiddling with my helmet strap, probably more than necessary.

The first few steps up felt steeper than I expected — my legs wobbled a bit. Sam pointed out how old some of the rivets were (“older than my nan,” he joked), and we paused while he told us about the workers who built the bridge back in the 1940s. There was this moment halfway up where you could hear nothing but wind and distant traffic, like being in a pocket above everything. The city looked softer from up there, almost quiet. I tried to spot Lamington in the distance but got distracted by someone’s bright red umbrella down below — funny what catches your eye when you’re nervous.

At the summit platform (80 meters doesn’t sound high until you’re standing there), Sam wrangled us into a group photo. My hair was doing its own thing thanks to the breeze, but nobody cared. You could see all of Brisbane — Moreton Bay glinting on one side, Glass House Mountains barely visible through haze on another. Someone asked if people ever propose up here; Sam grinned and said it happens more often than you’d think. I didn’t expect to feel so calm at that height — maybe it was just relief mixed with adrenaline. Going down felt easier somehow, like gravity wanted us back on solid ground.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Climb Brisbane Story Bridge

• Arrive 15 minutes early
• Attend safety briefing
• Attach to static line
• Climb to Summit Top Platform
• Enjoy 360-degree Brisbane views

Top questions

How long does the Story Bridge Adventure Climb take?

The entire climb experience takes about 2 hours from start to finish.

Is there an age or height limit for climbing?

The minimum age is 6 years old (with an adult), minimum height is 110cm, and maximum weight is 130kg.

Where does the climb begin?

The climb starts from base headquarters at the HSW Precinct in Brisbane.

What happens if it rains during my climb?

The Story Bridge Climb operates in most weather conditions, including rain.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, there are public transport options close to the starting point.

Will I get photos from my climb?

Your booking includes one large group photo taken at the summit platform.

Are there any health restrictions?

The tour isn’t recommended for those with spinal injuries or walking disabilities; pregnant women after 20 weeks can’t participate.

Do I need to pass an alcohol test before climbing?

Yes, all climbers must register under .05 on a breath alcohol test before starting.

What’s included

Your Story Bridge day includes guidance from a local expert throughout your climb, a safety demonstration before heading up, plus one large group photo at the summit to remember it by.