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National Parks

The Tropical North Short walks guide Contents Explore national parks

Explore national parks...... 3 Tropical (tablelands)...... 21 Welcome Your ‘must do’ list Choose your walk...... 4 Din Din lookout...... 22 ... to the Park Rangers’ top picks for the best short Our Park Rangers have chosen walks suitable for ...... 6 Djina-Wu track ...... 22 walks in north Queensland’s national parks and everyone from the young to the young at heart. World Heritage areas. Alligator Creek lookout...... 7 circuit track...... 23 These walks showcase the different habitats Truly experience Queensland’s tropical north as protected by our national parks, giving you the Forts walk ...... 7 Mobo Creek Crater track ...... 23 you venture among boulders, through woodlands, chance to explore rainforest, bushland, islands, Jacana bird hide track...... 8 circuit...... 24 across streams and up to lookouts perched high beaches and even wetlands. Shelly Cove trail ...... 8 Children’s walk ...... 24 above the landscape. Explore long sandy palm- Walks take you to the very best features in our fringed beaches and dip your toes into the waters Witts lookout track...... 9 Tulip oak walk...... 25 national parks. They are a fun way to experience of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area. nature and get active with family and friends. Jourama Falls track ...... 9 Curtain Fig boardwalk ...... 25 Come and immerse yourself in the vast Which one will be your favourite? Create your own Banggurru walk...... 10 Crater track...... 26 history and extraordinary biodiversity of ‘must-do’ list from the walks featured in this guide Jabali walk ...... 10 WWII Heritage track ...... 26 Queensland’s national parks. and start exploring. Ranger Evan, Tropical North Queensland (coast)...... 11 Photo credits...... 27 Find more walking ideas in Tropical North on behalf of the rangers Wreck Creek walk...... 12 Queensland and Townsville North Queensland Further information...... 28 of the Tropical North regions on our website at qld.gov.au/NationalParks Yalgay Ginja Bulumi walk ...... 12 Fan Palm walk...... 13 Bicton Hill circuit track ...... 13 Muggy Muggy Beach track...... 14 Butterfly walk ...... 14 Tchupala / Wallicher falls...... 15 track ...... 15 Wajil Walk (Kearneys Falls)...... 16 Goldfield Trail (south end) ...... 16 Wet Tropics Great Barrier Reef Swamp walk...... 17 World Heritage Area World Heritage Area Red Arrow walk ...... 17 Discover the breathtaking beauty and biodiversity The Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area Nudey Beach track...... 18 of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. features the world’s largest coral reef, Extending from Townsville to Cooktown, famed for its incredible beauty and outstanding Green Island boardwalk ...... 18 these ancient rainforests are a living cultural biodiversity. Stretching more than 2,000km Stoney Creek Garndal Garndal track...... 19 landscape for Rainforest Aboriginal people along Queensland’s coast, the Reef comprises and home to many threatened species. 3,000 individual reefs and islands. Baral Marrjanga track ...... 19 Jindalba circuit track...... 20 Dubuji boardwalk ...... 20

2 3 Choose your walk Getting ready Stay a little longer When walking, it’s best to wear sturdy comfortable If you enjoy walking and want to explore further, Whether you want to delve into ancient rainforests, explore tropical beaches or spot awesome shoes, loose cool clothing (preferably long sleeves stay overnight. You can camp in many of the wildlife, you’ll find information within these pages to help you select walks you’ll really enjoy. and long pants for protection against sunburn, parks mentioned in this guide but you need Choose from a selection of some of the most popular walks in north Queensland. bites and stings), a hat and sunscreen. to book and pay for your camp site first. Book your camp site online at qld.gov.au/Camping Under a brief description of the Park Rangers’ favourite short walks, we’ve provided the Pack your day pack with: or visit queensland.com for other local following information to help you plan your trip: • drinking water and energy-boosting snacks accommodation options. • insect repellent and extra sunscreen • basic first-aid kit (including compression bandages for snake bite) Enjoy your walk! • camera and binoculars Walk distance and time. Track length • rubbish bag is not always the best indicator of the time • mobile phone (although you’ll be out of range the walk might take. Check walking time in many places). before deciding whether a track is suitable. Before you go, find out how to walk with care— how to be cass-o-wary and to avoid other All walks featured here can be walked potentially hazardous wildlife—at qld.com.au/ in less than 3 hours. Suggested walking NationalParks times are for people with average fitness. Allow more time if your group includes young children and elderly people or if Edmund Kennedy, you’re a keen photographer stopping Girramay National Park to capture moments along the way. Tropical North Queensland (tablelands) What’s the track like? All are suitable for anyone with average fitness. Tropical North Some walks can accommodate strollers Jindalba circuit, Queensland (coast) Cape Tribulation Map legend and wheelchairs. Others are longer, Townsville The areas covered in this guide are shown might be uneven or have some steps. Townsville on this map of Queensland. Where the walk starts. Most walks What else can I do? Information about Maps of these tourism regions are at the start start near a picnic or camping area. visitor facilities near the track, including of each section. Special instructions are provided here. where you can picnic or camp nearby. Walking track maps are provided for every Getting there. Guide to finding your Ranger tips from the local Ranger are featured walk. Symbols used on the track way to the park entrance. useful hints to help you enjoy your walk. maps are explained here.

Here’s a guide to what to expect: Parks and forests Featured short walk Railway Day-use area Car camping Symbol Suits Track description Restricted Access Area Walking track Buildings Picnic table Lookout Wheelchairs No bushwalking experience required. Flat even surface with no steps or steep Water Sheltered Constructed and strollers sections. Suitable for wheelchair users who have someone to assist them. Boardwalk Information picnic table lookout Waterways Information BBQ—wood Refreshments Families with No bushwalking experience required. The track is a hardened or compacted Waterfall shelter young children surface and may have a gentle hill section or sections and occasional steps. Sealed major road Bridge Parking BBQ—gas Restaurant Suitable for most ages and fitness levels. Some bushwalking experience People with some Sealed minor road Stairs Toilets BBQ—coin operated Telephone recommended. Rough uneven surface, may have many steps and short bushwalking experience steep hill sections. Unsealed road Mountain Showers Camping Heliport 4 5 Alligator Creek lookout Forts walk Bowling Green Bay National Park National Park

The rugged mountains of this park are the southern A ‘must-do’ on Magnetic Island, the popular gateway to north Queensland’s tropical rainforest. Forts walk leads to historic WWII fortifications. At Mount Elliot, stroll to the lookout for pleasant Learn the fascinating history of the fort ruins and views over Alligator Creek. Then backtrack and enjoy bird’s-eye views over the coast and islands. take the steps down to the creek and cool off with As you walk, take the time to look up into the eucalypt Townsville a refreshing swim. For a shorter walk, take the trees, you might just spot a sleeping koala. wheelchair-accessible boardwalk from the day-use From the top of the fortifications, snap a photo with Townsville’s national parks are studded with streams to refresh you, wetlands area to the bank of Alligator Creek. breathtaking 360 degree views as your backdrop. alive with waterbirds and rugged rainforest-clad ranges waiting to be explored. Experience the thrill of plunging waterfalls and enjoy stunning views. 1km return (30min) 4km return (1.5hr)

Encounter sleepy resident koalas, glimpse rare birds and delve into Hardened or compacted surface and may have Uneven surface, some steep sections. a rich military and maritime history. gentle hill sections and occasional steps. Forts Junction car park Alligator Creek main day-use area Drive or catch a bus from Nelly Bay Harbour 4km Travel 25km south of Townsville or 65km north along Horseshoe Bay Road to the Forts Junction To Ingham of Ayr on the then turn onto the at the turn-off to Radical Bay. Mount Garnet 5.5km road to the park entrance. Legend Toilets are nearby at Florence Bay, accessed via Picnic shelter and gas barbecue at main day-use Radical Bay Road. Townsville North Queensland Cardwell area. Wheelchair-accessible toilets near main Parks and forests day-use area and also at nearby camping area. Ranger Jo’s tip: Speak to other people on the walk 6 Lucinda to find out where the koalas are. They’re more World Heritage area Great Barrier Ingham Reef Marine Park Ranger Lynn’s tip: Alligator Creek is a little oasis active in the early morning and late afternoon. Visitor information centre in the savanna. Keep an eye out for all sorts of 2 Airport 4 3 wildlife and enjoy a swim in the creek with the 5 friendly jungle perch. Sealed road Townsville 1 Unsealed road Ayr Home Hill Town

Horseshoe Bay

d a To Radical Bay

To Bowen Main day-use area o

Alligator Creek R

1 Horseshoe Florence Bowling Green Bay National Park Dalberg y

Bay Lagoon a

START Bay B

2 Magnetic Island National Park

e Burdekin Falls o ay 3 Townsville Town Common Conservation Park h l B To Hughenden Dam s a e ic Searchlight

s d

4 Cape Pallarenda Conservation Park r a o H R Tower 5 Paluma Range National Park Forts START Arthur Bay 6 Lake Junction Buchanan To Cockatoo Creek To Frankfield To Nelly Bay Scale and Alligator Falls Scale Scale 0 100 200m 0 1 2km 0 80km

6 7 Jacana bird hide track Shelly Cove trail Witts lookout track Jourama Falls track Townsville Town Common Conservation Park Cape Pallarenda Conservation Park Paluma Range National Park, Mount Spec Paluma Range National Park, Jourama Falls

The ‘Town Common’ is a great place to enjoy nature Explore an old access road created during World Escape the coastal lowland heat and head to the Embrace the natural beauty of this southern close to the bustling city centre of Townsville. War II that leads to Shelly Cove, hidden behind hills of Mount Spec in the Paluma Range. Meander gateway to the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. Walk along the Freshwater trail and turn off to the the Cape Pallarenda headland. Large rock steps through World Heritage-listed rainforest then Ramble through open woodland, cross the creek Jacana bird hide overlooking Freshwater Lagoon. lead down the beach at the end of the trail. Relax climb steeply through open forest to the lookout. and continue uphill to the lookout. Be rewarded Sit quietly in the hide and watch waterbirds on the beach with a picnic and enjoy picturesque On a clear day, you’ll enjoy views over Halifax by scenic views of Jourama Falls, where streams foraging for food. Return the way you came or views across to Magnetic Island. To return, retrace Bay and the Palm Islands to the north-east. flow down from higher slopes, feeding the falls and continue on the Freshwater and Lagoon trails your steps. Along the walk, look for wet tropics birds, other cascades and rapids on Waterview Creek. to complete a longer 8km loop. including the golden bowerbird.

900m return (1hr) 1.5km return (1.5hr) 3km return (2hr) 3km return (1hr)

Uneven surface. Walkers and mountain-bike Uneven surface, steep sections and steps. Hardened surface, short steep hill sections Hardened surface, 600m uphill section riders share this trail. Walkers and mountain-bike riders share this trail. and steps. with steps.

Freshwater car park Cape Pallarenda day-use area McClellands lookout, Mount Spec Road Jourama Falls car park (700m past Jourama Falls camping area) Travel 6km north of Townsville city centre along Travel 10km north of Townsville city centre along Travel 61km north of Townsville or 40km south of Cape Pallarenda Road to the park entrance Cape Pallarenda Road to the park entrance. Ingham on the Bruce Highway, turn onto Barrett Travel 91km north of Townsville or 24km south of (open 6.30am–6.30pm daily). Drive along Road, then onto Mount Spec Road and drive 17km Ingham on the Bruce Highway then turn onto the Freshwater Lagoon Road to the car park. Toilets and picnic tables at Cape Pallarenda to McClellands lookout. 4.5km unsealed road to Jourama Falls. day-use area. Toilets and picnic tables at nearby Cape Pallarenda Toilets, picnic tables and barbecues Toilets, picnic tables and gas barbecue day-use area. Ranger Billy’s tip: A fabulous sunrise walk. While at McClellands lookout. at day-use area near first causeway. in the area, explore the World War II fort trails Ranger Anthony’s tip: The lagoon trails are a that branch off the Shelly Cove trail. Ranger Tim’s tips: The view from Witts lookout Ranger Tim’s tips: I love Waterview Creek with its great place for you to take the kids for a bike ride impresses me every time. Take a camera and rock pools and boulders and the view of Jourama

without vehicle traffic. spend a few minutes to take it all in. Falls is worth the walk uphill!

k e

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C

y d Shelly Cove ou Cl rail To camping area n t Sh Jourama Falls oo ell Cloudy Creek walk g y C access road La o Witts lookout Jacana ve Shelley Cove t START ra

bird hide il k Jourama Falls

il Paluma e a e

r r car park t START oad

r R C te lk

a a ec w w Mo w Freshwater sh s unt Sp

e t e r i bird hide F or Rainforest walk F v

START r

McClellands lookout e t a

Freshwater Graves H track W car park circuit Scale Scale START Scale Scale 0 250 500m 0 250m Cape Pallarenda 0 1 2km 0 200 400m day-use area

8 9 Banggurru walk Jabali walk Girringun National Park, Girringun National Park,

Delight in the beauty of World Heritage-listed Soak up the sounds and scents of the Aussie rainforest along the banks of Stony Creek on this bush along this walk, (pronounced ‘Ju-bah-li’ easy walk (pronounced ‘Bun-gu-roo’, meaning meaning whiptail wallaby). From the Blencoe Falls turtle). Glimpse a rippling the water’s lookout gaze in awe at the scenic falls and rugged surface and look for water dragons and saw- landscape of the Gorge. Return the shelled turtles basking on rocks. Afterwards, drive same way or arrange for a pick-up at the nearby Tropical North Queensland (coast) 2km to Wallaman Falls lookout to see Stony Creek Herbert River Gorge lookout for a shorter walk. form the highest permanent single-drop waterfall Wild, unspoilt, and exciting, Tropical North Queensland is home to the Great in . Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics World Heritage areas. Explore rugged rainforested slopes of the coastal range and discover sparkling waterfalls tumbling towards 800m return (45min) 5km return (2hr) the sea. On the coast, wander beneath the shady canopy of lowland fan palm

Uneven surface. Exposed roots and uneven surface, some steep forest then head out to enticing tropical islands shimmering just off shore. sections. Wallaman Falls day-use and camping area Blencoe Falls camping area Great Barrier Travel 11km west from Ingham to Trebonne then 12 Mossman Reef Marine Park follow signs for a further 40km. Sealed road, From the coast, drive 84km from Cardwell via the suitable for conventional vehicles. Range can Kirrama Range Road. From inland, drive about Legend be slippery when wet. 100km from Mount Garnet via the Kirrama– Tropical North Queensland Cashmere Road. Note: Blencoe Falls is remote. Toilets, picnic tables and barbecues are at Parks and forests 10 Wallaman Falls camping and day-use area. Toilets at Blencoe Falls camping area. World Heritage area 11 8 Cairns Visitor information centre Ranger Marty’s tips: Visit Wallaman Falls from Ranger Nick’s tip: This is one of Australia’s most 9 mid-morning to mid-afternoon to experience stunning waterfalls! Don’t get carried away when Airport the magical beauty of the rainbow formed taking photos—make sure you stay behind the Gordonvale Sealed road in the falls’ mist. safety fence. Unsealed road Town 6 To Wallaman Falls lookout Blencoe Falls camping area 7 START 1 Girramay National Park 7 Eubenangee Swamp National Park Innisfail Wallaman Falls Herbert River camping and day-use area Gorge 2 Djiru National Park 8 Mount Whitfield Conservation Park 3 Clump Mountain National Park 9 Fitzroy Island National Park START Blencoe Falls Blencoe Falls 3 W 4 10 5 e Family Islands National Park Green Island National Park Mission lookout t T Beach r 2 o 5 Tully Gorge National Park 11 Barron Gorge National Park Tully p 4 S ic to s 6 Wooroonooran National Park 12 n G y r C ea t Wal 1 r k Scale e Scale Scale e Herbert River 0 250 500m k 0 1km 0 50 100km Cardwell Gorge lookout

Scale 0 500 1000 m 10 11 Wreck Creek walk Yalgay Ginja Bulumi walk Fan Palm walk Bicton Hill circuit track Girramay National Park, Edmund Kennedy Girramay National Park, Djiru National Park Clump Mountain National Park

Meander through coastal scrub, crossing tidal Ramble through open forest and rainforest to a Enter a cool green world on this loop track winding Feeling energetic? Tackle this exhilarating walk mangrove creeks via bridges, and emerge onto lookout over one of the prettiest waterfalls in through lush fan palm forest. Look for evidence of through lowland rainforest that winds around the beach 300m south of Wreck Creek. Gaze at north Queensland. Murray Falls, with spectacular past cyclones and marvel at nature’s resilience. Bicton Hill to the summit. Your reward? Fantastic calm seas with a scenic backdrop of Hinchinbrook water-sculpted rocks and crystal clear pools, in the At the end of the track, another short track follows photo opportunities with stunning views Island’s craggy skyline. Return along the beach foothills of the Kirrama Range, is a great place to ‘cassowary footprints’ to a ‘nest’ (Children’s overlooking the coastline and idyllic Family Islands. if the tide is low, spotting seabirds on the way. stop for a picnic. Watch for birds and learn about Walk, 400m, 8min). Keep your eyes open for Remember to be crocwise. Girramay Aboriginal culture along this track. cassowaries—they are regularly seen here! Be cass-o-wary.

2.5km return (1.5–2hr) 1.8km return (1.5hr) 1.3km return (20min) 3.9km return (2–2.5hr)

Sand and boardwalk bridges Mostly compacted surface, some uneven surface Boardwalk and track with hardened surface, Steep sections and many steps. with rock steps and short hill sections. wheelchair-accessible with assistance. Edmund Kennedy day-use area Small car park on Alexander Drive Esplanade Murray Falls camping area Licuala day-use area Travel 4km north from Cardwell on the Bruce From Mission Beach township, drive 4.6km north Highway then turn onto Clift Road and drive Travel 16km south from Tully on the Bruce From Mission Beach township, drive 8km along along Alexander Drive Esplanade. Accessible by 1km to the park entrance. A 3km unsealed road Highway then turn off at Murrigal and drive 20km the Tully–Mission Beach Road, then turn north conventional vehicles. leads to the day-use area. The road is suitable to Murray Falls. Alternatively, travel 21km north onto the signed unsealed road, and drive 1.6km. for conventional vehicles but not caravans from Cardwell, turn off at Bilyana and drive 20km Unsealed road is accessible by conventional Picnic table at start of track. or motorhomes. to the park. Access roads are partly sealed and vehicles but may be unsuitable for caravans. suitable for conventional vehicles. Ranger Audrey’s tip: Take your time on this walk; Picnic tables in day-use area. Picnic tables and cassowary-proof fence at day-use enjoy the sounds and smells of the rainforest, Toilets in camping area; picnic tables and area. Do not share your meal with these big birds! and stop at the lookouts to soak up the scenic wood-fired barbecue in day-use area. Ranger Willie’s tip: Make sure you walk only views over beautiful Bingil Bay. at low tide. Put on insect repellent, as this Ranger Audrey’s tip: Look up. See the dappled is mangrove country and stay on the alert Ranger Willie’s tip: Take your camera and capture light filter through the radiating segments of for crocs! a scenic snap from the lookout. Remember to overlapping umbrella-like leaves in the canopy carry drinking water! of the fan palm swamp.

Murray River Musgravea track START River To park boardwalk entrance Wreck Creek Children’s walk A le Day-use x START a area n d e START r D ri ve Murray E Edmund Kennedy Falls Licuala Fan Palm walk s Murray Falls p

l day-use area day-use area a camping area n START a d Scale Scale Scale Scale e 0 0.5 1km To park entrance 0 200m 0 150 300m 0 200m Cliff Road To Mission Beach

12 13 Muggy Muggy Beach track Butterfly walk Nandroya Falls Tchupala / Wallicher falls Family Islands National Park, Dunk Island Tully Gorge National Park, Tully Wooroonooran National Park, Palmerston Wooroonooran National Park, Palmerston

Feel like Dunk Island’s famous beachcomber as Can you tell a blue triangle from a banded Cross the footbridge over Henrietta Creek and Explore the heart of the Wet Tropics World Heritage you walk along a deserted beach to the start of the demon? Or an orange aeroplane from an orchard follow the signs to the walk entrance. Wander along Area on this rainforest walk. Follow the right- track. Wind your way through rainforest, woodland swallowtail? Explore the World Heritage-listed the upper valley of Douglass Creek past Silver hand fork in the track to where the and mangroves to a picturesque sandy cove, rainforest along this easy walk and you soon Creek Falls to Nandroya Falls, where Douglas Creek fern-fringed Henrietta Creek tumbles over a mossy sheltered behind a headland. Cool down with a will! The area is noted for its beautiful drops in a narrow, uninterrupted, 50m fall from a basalt ledge. If one waterfall isn’t enough, on the swim, or explore with a snorkel at Muggy Muggy Wet Tropics butterflies, which are best seen basalt parapet. This walk can be done as a circuit return trip follow the left-hand track to nearby Beach before returning along the same track. between September and February. walk, returning by the alternative route. pretty Wallicher Falls, extending your walk to 2.8km return (1.5hr).

3km return (70min) 375m return (20min) 6km return (2­–hr) 1.2km return (40min)

Sandy beach then track with gentle hill sections Track has flat even surface, no steps or steep Track may have short steep hill sections, a rough Hardened or compacted surface and may have a and occasional steps. Access to track is best at sections, suitable for wheelchairs with assistance. surface and many steps. gentle hill section or sections and occasional steps. mid–low tide. Tully Gorge camping area (eastern end) Henrietta Creek camping area (western side) Car park on , 3km west from The Spit day-use area Mamu Tropical Skywalk From Tully, drive south on the Bruce Highway From Cairns travel south along the Bruce Highway 4.5km east of Mission Beach, access by private for 1.4km then turn east onto Dean Road, which towards Innisfail. Turn right onto the Palmerston From Innisfail drive north on the Bruce Highway vessel or water taxi from Wongaling and South becomes Jarra Creek Road and Cardstone Road, Highway 5km north of Innisfail. The Henrietta for 5km then turn west onto the Palmerston Mission beaches (travel time approximately driving 41km to the camping area. Creek camping area is 37km from the Palmerston Highway and drive 30km. 10min). Highway turn-off. Picnic tables, shower, barbecues and toilets Closest facilities at Gooligans picnic area (1.4km) Toilets, picnic tables and barbecues at The Spit in the camping and day-use areas. Picnic tables, free gas barbecues, and toilets and Henrietta Creek (2.4km). day-use and camping areas. in camping area. Ranger Audrey’s tip: Hear your children’s squeals Ranger Brenton’s tip: Tchupala Falls are a must- Ranger Evan’s tip: Look for brilliant blue Ulysses of delight when they spot baby butterflies Ranger Cam’s tip: It’s such a nice walk, seeing see, so remember your camera. Then settle in butterflies and, if you’re lucky, echidnas, along clustered under leaves or delight in the bright Silver Falls on the way and the reward of for a picnic at Henrietta Creek after your walk. this track. And make sure you steer clear of the colours of butterflies in the swallowtail family Nandroya Falls at the end. If you have time spiny wait-a-while vine! flitting along the track. I recommend the full circuit.

Change rooms

Muggy Muggy To Gooligans Beach picnic area Nandroya Doug Tully Gorge la The Spit day-use Falls s H Tchupala START camping area C e tta C and camping areas Silver r nrie e Falls e e k e To Brammo Day-use Creek k H Wallicher To park P en Bay a Falls rie Falls Jetty entrance area lm tta C e ig reek Mount rston H hway START Henrietta To Mamu Kootaloo START Airstrip To Millaa Millaa Creek K-tree Road rston H track START me ig camping Pal hw Hen ay rietta Creek area Scale Scale Scale Scale 0 500m 0 50 100m 0 0.5 1km 0 250 500m

14 15 Josephine Falls track Goldfield Trail (south end) Swamp walk Red Arrow walk Wooroonooran National Park Wooroonooran National Park Eubenangee Swamp National Park Mount Whitfield Conservation Park

Walk through lush tropical rainforest to viewing Follow the footsteps of the early gold prospectors Meander along the rainforested banks of the Alice On the edge of the city, join the locals as they decks overlooking picturesque Josephine Falls. on the southern end of the historic Goldfield Trail. River, then walk up grassy Baldy Hill. Soak up the amble, stride and jog the hilly paths and many Rising as a trickle high on the summit of Bartle Follow Babinda Creek upstream for 1km to enter the serenity as you enjoy views of Bartle Frere and steps of this track. Pass through shady rainforest Frere, Josephine Creek tumbles and gushes national park. Enjoy an easy ramble for one or two Bellenden Ker, Queensland’s highest peaks. gullies, open woodland and towering fishpole over granite boulders at the falls, creating a kilometres, as the trail leaves the main creek edge Hear the trills and honks of many waterbirds bamboo to lookouts with expansive views over mesmerising spectacle. Don’t enter the restricted and crosses several smaller creeks. Walk only as far feeding in the swamp below. Estuarine crocodiles Cairns city, Trinity Bay, and the rich, green, access area around the top of the falls—the force of as you wish, then turn and retrace your steps. live in the park so remember to be crocwise. coastal mangrove forests lining the Barron River. the water makes this area extremely dangerous.

Up to 6km return (3hr) 1.5km return (30min) 1.5km return (1hr) 1.2km return (30min) Track may have short steep hill sections, a rough Short gravel and grass walking track with no Track may have short steep hill sections, a rough Flat even surface, viewing platform over top surface and many steps. steps. Suitable for wheelchair users who have surface and many steps. pool is wheelchair-accessible, stairs lead to someone to assist them. the bottom pool. The Boulders Scenic Reserve Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre, Collins Avenue Car park on Cartwright Road Josephine Falls day-use area At Babinda, turn right into Munro Street and drive Drive about 5km north from the Cairns city centre 7km west to The Boulders. Drive south from Cairns on the Bruce Highway and turn onto Collins Avenue, following the Turn off the Bruce Highway 2km south of Mirriwinni to Mirriwinni (67km) and turn left into Bramston signs to the Tanks Art Centre and Cairns Botanic and drive 8km to Josephine Falls. Access is by Picnic tables, shelters, gas barbecues and toilets Beach Road. After 8km turn right into Cartwright Gardens. Park on Collins Avenue and walk to the conventional vehicle. at The Boulders Scenic Reserve. Road and continue for a further 1km to the trail head near the visitor centre. park entrance. These roads are all sealed and Picnic tables, a shelter shed, a coin-operated Ranger Cameron’s tip: After about 4km, the track accessible by conventional vehicles. No facilities, toilets in nearby visitor centre. electric barbecue and toilets in day-use area. crosses a small creek and ascends steeply to the No facilities, the closest facilities are at Bramston saddle between Bellenden Ker and Bartle Frere. Ranger Jodie’s tip: Enjoy wildlife spotting Ranger Les’s tip: If conditions are safe, cool off Turn back before this point otherwise you’ll have Beach. along the walk. If you are lucky you may see a with a dip in the swimming area in the bottom a long walk home! red-legged pademelon, common orange-footed pool and try out the awesome natural rock slide. Ranger Les’s tip: Look very closely and you may scrub fowl or Australian brush turkeys scratching be able to spot a crocodile in the waterhole from around on the forest floor. atop Baldy Hill!

CartwrightTo Road Bramston Beach Road Top of the falls Restricted To Goldsborough Valley Blue Top pool Access Arrow track Area Falls viewing Day-walk platform Middle Creek turn-around point To Babinda START Middle creek START Th e ers Alice River platform Bo uld oad Botanic Gardens To The Boulders R Bottom pool Visitor Centre day-use Bottom pool Scenic Reserve START area Scale Scale Scale Scale enue 0 100 200m 0 0.5 2km 0 0.5 1km 0 200m s Av llin Co

16 17 Nudey Beach track Green Island boardwalk Stoney Creek Garndal Garndal track Baral Marrjanga track Fitzroy Island National Park Green Island National Park Barron Gorge National Park Daintree National Park, Mossman Gorge

Venture through rainforest and coastal woodlands, Stroll along the shaded boardwalk through the Rock-hop along this rough track beside Stoney Explore lush World Heritage rainforest as skirting massive granite boulders to reach this heart of this small rainforest-clad coral cay. Listen Creek. Admire clear limpid pools and small waterfalls you amble along elevated boardwalks to the picturesque beach. Swim and snorkel at Nudey to pied-imperial pigeons in the canopy, watch along the way. At the top of Stoney Creek gorge, lookouts. Watch the waters tumble Beach or just settle in the shade with your picnic buff-banded rails dash around the undergrowth catch your breath as you stand on the large boulder spectacularly over granite boulders. Retrace your lunch but be warned—keep your clothes on. and glimpse the coral-studded sea through the overlooking the creek. Return along the same track steps along the boardwalk. Alternatively return It’s ‘nudey’ by name not by nature! trees. Retrace your steps then enjoy a swim at the then cool off with a refreshing dip in the creek. along the (rougher) Lower river track. Think before patrolled beach or relax in the shade with a picnic. you swim and obey all warning signs.

1.2km return (45min) 1.3km return (50min) 2km return (30min) 540m return (15min)

Bitumen surface with some steep stone steps. Flat even surface with no steps. Suitable for The track is unformed with a rough, uneven Elevated boardwalk and hardened surfaces. wheelchair users who have someone to surface of rocks and twisted tree roots. (The lower river track has bituman surfaces, Resort, western side assist them. bridges and stairs—no wheelchair access). Car park at the end of Stoney Creek Road 25km offshore from Cairns, access is by private Jetty, in resort area Shuttle bus stop at park entrance boat or ferry services from Cairns Reef Fleet From Cairns, drive 16km north along the Captain Terminal. The trip takes about 45min. 27km offshore from Cairns, access is by private Cook Highway and turn left onto Cairns Western From Cairns, drive 80km north along Captain boat or ferry services from Cairns Reef Fleet Arterial (Kamerunga Road). Drive 3.5km, turn Cook Highway to Mossman. Before the town Toilets, telephones and food outlets are provided Terminal. One-way trip is 45min. right onto Stoney Creek Road and drive 2.1km centre, turn left into Johnston Road and drive 2km within the resort for day visitors. to the car park. to Mossman Gorge Visitor Centre. Shuttle buses Toilets, showers, telephones and food outlets operate daily from centre to park entrance, every 15min from 8am–6pm. Fees apply. Walk or cycle Ranger Wayne’s tip: Make sure you bring a pair of within the resort for day visitors. Picnic tables No facilities. shoes or thongs as the coral rubble on the beach along the boardwalk. to the park at any time at no cost. Keep to the edge of the narrow road to avoid traffic. can be a bit hard on the feet! Ranger Jodie’s tip: Don’t forget your swimmers. Ranger Wayne’s tip: Take the time to read the Enjoy a relaxing swim at your choice of Toilets and picnic tables at shuttle bus stop. signs on the boardwalk and find out about the numerous secluded rock pools set within fascinating history of Green Island. the tranquil rainforest. Ranger Dave’s tip: Keep your eyes open for Boyd’s forest dragons clinging to tree trunks near the water’s edge. You must stay on the walking tracks.

Stoney Creek Road Jetty Patrolled swimming area Mossman River lookout Resort START Lower river track Jetty Rex Creek suspension Mossman River START Stoney Creek / bridge START Marineland Douglas trailhead Secret Resort Melanesia Garden track

Beach walk Stoney Creek Shuttle Nudey Beach Scale Scale Scale Scale bus stop START 0 500m Information 0 200m 0 200m 0 100 200m Toilets Showers To Mossman Picnic tables Helipad 18 19 Jindalba circuit track Dubuji boardwalk Daintree National Park, Cape Tribulation Daintree National Park, Cape Tribulation

Venture into the rainforest on this easy circuit track The Dubuji (meaning ‘place of spirits’) boardwalk at Jindalba (‘foot of the mountain’). Walk quietly and travels through lowland rainforest swamps and you may glimpse a tree-kangaroo or cassowary. Feel mangroves. Signs explain the survival strategies a sense of awe as the realisation hits you—you are in used by rainforest plants and animals. The site is the iconic Daintree, one of Australia’s last extensive close to Myall Beach and has large grassed areas Tropical North Queensland (tablelands) stands of lowland rainforest. with picnic shelters and toilets. Tropical North Queensland short walks offer magical experiences and memories 3km return (1.5hr) 1.2km loop (45min) to treasure. Escape the summer heat in the parks of the Atherton and Evelyn Track is uneven in places and you may get your Boardwalk with flat even surface with no steps tablelands. Discover volcanic crater lakes and lush upland rainforests with feet wet as you cross the rainforest creeks. or steep sections. spectacular waterfalls in the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, all within easy Jindalba day-use area Dubuji day-use area Northreach of Queensland Cairns and tablelands - tablelands towns. From Cairns drive 104km north on the Captain From Cairns drive 104km north on the to the crossing. Cook Highway to the Daintree River crossing. Vehicle ferry operates 6am–midnight every day Vehicle ferry operates 6am–midnight every day (reduced service on Christmas Day). Beyond the (reduced service on Christmas Day). Beyond the ferry, drive 16km, turn right into Tulip Oak Road ferry, drive 51.5km. Car park is about 5km past Great Barrier and drive 1km to car park. Noah Beach. Reef Marine Park Legend Toilets and picnic tables in the day-use area. Toilets and picnic tables in the day-use area. Tropical North Queensland Ranger Kylie’s tip: Make sure you take your Ranger Brendan’s tip: Enjoy the dappled light Parks and forests Kuranda binoculars and spot some of the Daintree’s show underneath the beautiful fan palms. 1 Cairns World Heritage area 2 popular birds, like the buff-breasted paradise kingfisher or the spotted catbird. Visitor information centre 3 Airport 4 Chillagoe Sealed road Atherton 5 Unsealed road 7 Camelot Malanda Close Town 6 Herberton 8 Millaa Millaa

START d 1 Barron Gorge National Park 6 Conservation Park a Jindalba o R Speewah Conservation Park 7 Curtain Fig National Park Ravenshoe day-use area Myall 2 n 9 o ti Beach 3 Davies Creek Dinden National Park 8 Mount Hypipamee National Park la u b ri 4 Danbulla National Park and State Forest 9 National Park T e p 5 a Crater Lakes National Park

C

Scale Scale Scale 0 100 200m 0 200m 0 50 100km Cardwell

20 21 Din Din Barron Falls lookout Djina-Wu track Davies Creek Falls circuit track Mobo Creek Crater track Barron Gorge National Park Speewah Conservation Park Davies Creek and Dinden national parks Danbulla National Park and State Forest

Wander along elevated boardwalks through vine- Step into the cool shade of lush rainforest and Amble through woodland to lookouts where you Descend this short walking track through cool, draped rainforest to lookouts where you can see feel like an early explorer as you delve deeper into can watch the spectacular Davies Creek Falls upland rainforest to Mobo Creek and the shady, the famed Barron Falls dropping 250m into the the forest. When you reach the historic Douglas plunge 75m into the valley below. Capture picture- sheer-sided pool known as Mobo Crater. Despite narrow gorge below. Marvel at the awesome power and Smiths tracks junction, turn and retrace your perfect valley views from behind the safety barrier. the volcanic rocks of the creek bed, the sides of the of nature that carved this scenic gorge. If you visit steps. Want to walk further? Plan a day hike into Follow the track along a tranquil section of creek crater are sandstone and shale. Three kilometres during the wet season, just after heavy rain, the Barron Gorge National Park returning to Speewah lined with paperbarks and pandanus and then cool along Danbulla Drive is a short rainforest walk thundering falls are a spectacular sight! or continuing on to Kuranda or Lake Placid. off with a refreshing dip. to the impressive Cathedral Fig Tree.

1.2km return (40min) 1.5km return (1hr) 1.1km return (20min) 630m circuit (15min)

An elevated, wheelchair-accessible (with assistance) Hardened surface with gentle slopes, several Track may have short steep hill sections, a rough The track may have short steep hill sections, boardwalk and paved track with some slopes, steps, and sections of boardwalks. surface and many steps. a rough uneven surface and many steps. no steps. Speewah camping and day-use area Davies Creek Falls circuit car park Mobo Creek Crater car park Barron Falls car park From Kuranda drive 6.5km south-west along the From Kuranda, drive 21km south-west along the Danbulla Road runs through the park and forest. From Kuranda, drive 3.5km along Barron Falls , turn left onto Speewah Road Kennedy Highway then turn left onto Davies Creek The eastern entrance is on Boar Pocket Road near Road to the Barron Falls car park. and follow the signs for 5.2km. Turn left onto Road. Follow this gravel road for 6km to the Lower the top of the Gillies Highway and the western Stoney Creek Road and then left onto Smiths Davies Creek camping area and drive a further entrance is reached via the townships of Kairi Toilets Track Road, and drive to camping area. 2km to the circuit car park. The access road can and Tinaroo. be rough and is unsuitable for caravans. Mobo Creek Crater is 4.6km from eastern Toilets and showers in camping area; Ranger Linden’s tip: Take binoculars so you can entrance and 23.4km from western entrance. look for rainforest birds then get a close-up view barbecues and tables in day-use area. Toilets at Lower Davies Creek camping area. of the falls from the lookout. And don’t be fooled No facilities. by the animal sculptures along the boardwalk! Ranger Linden’s tip: Walk a short way into Ranger Rob’s tip: In the late afternoon or early the rainforest and feel like you’re miles from morning you may be lucky enough to see a This is my favourite walk on civilisation. Stinging trees grow here, so don’t platypus in the tranquil section of the creek. Ranger Miki’s tip: venture off the track. the tablelands. When you get to the crater you can hear the water over the rocks. It’s the perfect setting to soak up the sounds of the rainforest.

Speewah Douglas day-use area Track To Lower Davies Creek START

B START S camping area arro d START n Falls Roa m START

i t Danbulla Road Mobo h s Crater

T Smiths

r

a c Track

k To Kahlpahlim

R Rock Davies

o Creek

a d Scale Scale Scale Scale 0 100 200m 0 200m 0 250 500m 0 100 200m

22 23 Lake Barrine circuit Children’s walk Tulip oak walk Curtain Fig boardwalk Crater Lakes National Park, Lake Barrine Crater Lakes National Park, Malanda Falls Conservation Park Curtain Fig National Park

Stand at the base of 2 exceptionally large bull kauri Wriggle like a snake, search for dragons and create Immerse yourself in the rainforest and culture of Stroll along the boardwalk to admire this immense pines and marvel at their sheer size—45m tall and amazing creatures on this fun (and educational) the Ngadjon-Jii Aboriginal people. Keep an eye fig tree from every angle. The formation of this fig more than 6m in girth! For a longer walk, continue walk through Lake Eacham’s rainforest. Then cool out for in the North , tree is unique—extensive aerial roots drop 15m to on the circuit track around the edge of the crater off with a swim and picnic on the grassy slopes especially at dawn and dusk. Look up to spot the forest floor to form a ‘curtain’. Look for wildlife lake. Enjoy secluded rainforest-fringed lake views overlooking the picturesque blue lake surrounded Lumholtz’s tree-kangaroos in the canopy (ask at sheltering in the rainforest, including Lumholtz’s and look for saw-shelled turtles and eastern water by lush rainforest. the visitor centre for recent sightings). After your tree-kangaroos and Herbert River ringtail possums. dragons in the lake. walk, take a memorable ‘snap’ of Malanda Falls.

160m return (10min) for Twin Kauris or 1.4km return (1hr) 1km return (35min) 180m return (10min) 5km return (2hr) for circuit The track is a hardened or compacted surface The track is a hardened or compacted surface Gently sloping boardwalk with flat even surface Track may have short steep hill sections, suitable for prams, but is steep in places. and may have a gentle hill sections and with no steps or steep sections. Suitable for a rough uneven surface and many steps. occasional steps. wheelchair users who have someone to assist them. Lake Eacham day-use area Lake Barrine day-use area Malanda Falls car park Curtain Fig car park From Atherton drive 20km east via the Gillies From Atherton drive 23km east along the Highway, Malanda–Lake Barrine Road and From Malanda, follow the Malanda–Atherton From , drive 2.5km west along Gillies Highway. Lake Eacham Road. Road and after 1km turn right into the car park the Gillies Highway and Fig Tree Road. just after crossing the North Johnstone River. Picnic tables, shelters and toilets; privately- Picnic tables, shelters, toilets, and barbecues No facilities. operated food outlet on the lake’s shore. at day-use area. Two lake viewing decks nearby. Toilets, picnic tables, shelters and barbecues in the adjoining Malanda Falls Scenic Reserve. Ranger Simon’s tip: Keep an eye out for ancient Ranger Roger’s tip: It’s great to lie on the Ranger Darren’s tip: Jump in and do the activities volcanic (basalt) boulders scattered across the boardwalk and look up at the majestic canopy along the walk with your kids. They’ll enjoy it Ranger Matt’s tip: You often see tree-kangaroos forest floor—just some of the many volcanic of these trees. (Just make sure you are not in even more and you’ll have loads of fun too! in the trees below the visitor information centre features you’ll see in this area! anyone’s path!) close to the falls.

Lake Barrine day-use area Lake Eacham r To Yungaburra e v START day-use area i START R To Atherton START Lake Eacham e Twin n to Malanda Falls Lakes Drive s Kauris hn Scenic Reserve Jo ircuit track rth Lake C No Curtain Fig Lake Barrine Malanda

Gillies Highway Falls Fig Tree Road

McLeish Road Scale Scale Scale START To Scale 0 250 500m 0 250 500m 0 200m Malanda 0 25m

24 25 Crater track WWII Heritage track Photo credits Mount Hypipamee National Park Millstream Falls National Park

All photos credited clockwise from left. Cover: HolidayTravelTV.com © Qld Govt Contents page: Maxime Coquard © Qld Govt Page 3: Clockwise from top left—© Qld Govt; Maxime Coquard © Qld Govt; © Tourism Tropical North Qld; Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt Page 4: Maxime Coquard © Qld Govt Page 5: © Tourism Tropical North Qld Page 6: © Townsville Enterprise Meander along a rainforest track and emerge at Step back in time along this walk through Page 7: © Fiona O’Grady; Maxime Coquard © Qld Govt a viewing platform overlooking the sheer granite picturesque country that was used for training by Page 8: © Qld Govt walls of a crater that is thought to have been the Australian Army during World War II. Discover created by a massive gas explosion. Peep over remains of the camp sites that once held more than Page 9: © Keith Dyson; © Qld Govt the rim of this diatreme (volcanic pipe) and, far 1,000 men of the 7th and 9th Divisions. If you’re up Page 10: © Fiona O’Grady; © Keith Dyson below, glimpse a lake with a green layer of native for another short but strenuous walk, check out the Page 11: Maxime Coquard © Qld Govt waterweed covering its mysterious depths. views from the Big Millstream Falls lookout. Page 12: Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt; © Tourism Tropical North Qld Page 13: © Tourism and Events Qld; Maxime Coquard © Qld Govt 800m return (30min) 1km return (45 min) Page 14: Maxime Coquard © Qld Govt; © Qld Govt The track is a hardened or compacted surface The track may have short steep hill sections, Page 15: Chris Roach @ Qld Govt; © Tourism Tropical North Qld and my have gentle hill sections and steps. a rough uneven surface and many steps. Page 16: Maxime Coquard © Qld Govt; © Tourism and Events Qld Mount Hypipamee day-use area Big Millstream Falls day-use area Page 17: © Tourism Tropical North Qld; Julie Swartz © Qld Govt From Atherton drive 25km south on the From Ravenshoe, drive 3.5km south-west on Page 18: © Tourism and Events Qld; Maxime Coquard © Qld Govt Kennedy Highway to the day-use area. the Kennedy Highway. Turn left into the signed entrance and drive 1km to Big Millstream Falls Page 19: © Tourism and Events Qld; Maxime Coquard © Qld Govt picnic area. Picnic tables and toilets in day-use area. Page 20: Maxime Coquard © Qld Govt; Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt

Ranger Mark’s tip: For a different experience, Barbecues, tables and toilets in picnic area. Page 21: Maxime Coquard © Qld Govt walk back to the car park along the Dinner Page 22: Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt; Julie Swartz © Qld Govt Falls track. And keep an eye out for the local Ranger Matt’s tip: After your walk, settle down cassowary. Remember to be cass-o-wary! with a picnic at this historic destination. Page 23: © Qld Govt; Tamara Vallance © Qld Govt Page 24: Maxime Coquard © Qld Govt Page 25: Maxime Coquard © Qld Govt; © Tourism Tropical North Qld Page 26: Maxime Coquard © Qld Govt; © Mandy Heales Page 27: Maxime Coquard © Qld Govt Officers tents Flag pole

Hypipamee Parade ground Mess tent Crater Ablutions area

To RavenshoeTo circuit Big Millstream Falls day-use area Mount Hypipamee day-use area

Scale Scale START 0 100m 0 100m START Millstream Falls walking track

26 27 Your guide to 36 of the best short walks in national parks, conservation parks and forests in north Queensland. Further information qld.gov.au/NationalParks

qld.gov.au/Camping qld.gov.au/ParkAlerts (access, closures and conditions) qldnationalparks Scan to check park alerts @QldParks; #QldParks

This brochure is also available online at qld.gov.au/ParkBrochures

World Heritage area information • wettropics.gov.au • gbrmpa.gov.au

©State of Queensland 2020. Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of Environment and Science. BP2130 May 2020.