The Brisbane River flows through Queensland's capital city and extends well into the surrounding region, offering paddlers a wide range of experiences from urban city paddling to quieter natural stretches further upstream. The river is tidal through the city, meaning water levels and current direction shift with the tides, and many boat ramps along the river become muddy and slick at low tide, making mid to high tide the preferred time to launch. Starting early in the morning is also recommended to avoid heavier boat traffic.

Within the city limits, the river is a fully operational transport corridor shared with ferries, CityCats, and other motorised vessels. Paddlers are required to stay within the designated passive craft lane. Key access points include Kangaroo Point, West End, Dutton Park (which has a dedicated kayak height pontoon for easy entry), Orleigh Park in West End, South Brisbane Riverside Lands Park on Riverside Drive, Sir John Chandler Park at Indooroopilly, and Northshore Riverside Park at Hamilton. The river through the city offers views of the Story Bridge and the Botanical Gardens.

Further upstream, the stretch between Twin Bridges and Lowood provides a markedly different experience. This section is slow-moving and largely natural, running approximately 6 kilometres through a wide pool flanked by bottlebrushes and large gum trees. There are small rapids at Lowood Bend, which are generally manageable but may become more hazardous after storms due to submerged debris. The Twin Bridges put-in allows vehicles to drive to the riverbank for unloading, with parking available a short distance away. This upstream area supports abundant birdlife including sea eagles, cormorants, and kingfishers.

The river water throughout its length is notably murky and muddy in appearance. Locals have noted the presence of sharks in sections near Goodna. The urban sections carry regular commercial and recreational vessel traffic, which paddlers should account for when planning routes and timing. Brisbane City Council maintains a network of pontoons and boat ramps along the river, many of which are accessible to kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards, with some facilities accommodating vessels up to 25 tonnes. Pontoon stays are generally limited to two hours unless otherwise signed.