Parks and forests of the Atherton and Evelyn tablelands
VisitVis or Guide
Featuring Curtain Fig National Park Danbulla National Park and State Forest Davies Creek National Park Dinden National Park Dinden West Forest Reserve Hallorans Hill National Park Herberton Range Conservation Park Herberton Range State Forest and Baldy Mountain Forest Reserve Hasties Swamp National Park Koombooloomba National Park and Conservation Park Lake Barrine, Crater Lakes National Park Lake Eacham, Crater Lakes National Park Malanda Falls Conservation Park Millstream Falls National Park Mount Hypipamee National Park Tully Falls National Park Tully Gorge National Park Tumoulin State Forest and Forest Reserve Wongabel State Forest Also including BlencoeBlB FFalls,lllls GGirringuniirrrringg National Park
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Photo: NPRSR. Wooroonooran Herberton Range Danbulla South National Park State Forest Forest Reserve Lake Tinaroo Atherton Lake Barrine Gadgarra National Park Mount Baldy Yungaburra X BaldyB Mountain Crater Lakes Forest Reserve National Park Legend Curtain Fig Lake Eacham National park Wongabel National Park
Herberton Range Ridge Road State Forest State forest T o HastiesHast Swamp pa Conservation park NationalNat Park Herberton Range z R oad National Park Malanda Forest reserve Water HerbertonHer Malanda Falls Conservation Highway Park Herberton Range Sealed road State Forest Herberton Range Upper Barron Road Unsealed road ConservationPark Herberton Range Place of interest Mount Hypipamee National Park Locked gate National Park
Legend for Boating Cycling Horseriding Walks brochure symbols Camping These symbols are used Driving Nature Wildlife viewing throughout the brochure Car access Fishing Places to visit Safety to organise information. Culture 2 Wongabel Gadgarra Baldy Mountain State National Park Forest Reserve Forest To Herberton Range pa z State Forest Herberton Range Ro National Park Malanda ad Herberton Malanda Falls Conservation Park Herberton Range Conservation Park Upper Barron Road
Mount Hypipamee NationalNational ParkPark Herberton Range Photo: NPRSR. (The(The CraCrater)te National Park Photo: Tamara Vallance, NPRSR. Vallance, Photo: Tamara
P A Wooroonooran TumoulinTumouT u L National Park Millaa M StatStatet E R FoForestree Tumoulin Millaa S TO Forest N
Reserve H I Malaan G H National W A Park Y Tully Millstream FaFalls Ravenshoe Gorge National Park T National Park u To Mount Garnet l ly To Innisfailnisfailill
F AY a W l H l KE HIG s NNEDY R Big Millstream Falls Vallance. Photo: Tamara o a Little Millstream Falls d Wabunga Tully Falls Wayemba National Park
Tully Gorge National Park Legend Tully Gorge lookout National park Koombooloomba State forest Conservation Park Conservation park Forest reserve Koombooloomba Dam Water
Photo: Ian Holloway, NPRSR. Photo: Ian Holloway, Highway Koombooloomba Sealed road South Forest Reserve Unsealed road Koombooloomba Lookout National Park Scale Place of interest 0 5 10 km
Legend for parks facilities and recreational opportunities symbols 4WD access Hiking These symbols are used throughout the brochure to Camping Easy or short walks show facilities, recreational opportunities and safety. Camping prohibited Place of interest Toilet Wood barbecue Caravan site Nature study Wheelchair accessible Gas barbecue 2WD camper trailer access Dogs permitted on leash No water provided Sheltered picnic table Camping—boat access Domestic animals prohibited No rubbish bin Picnic table Fishing Generator use permitted Campfi re permitted Bicycle permitted Fishing prohibited Generator use prohibited Campfi re prohibited Horses permitted Lookout World Heritage Area Open fi replace Shared zone Viewpoint 3 Photo: Tourism Queensland. Photo: Tourism
To obtain a camping permit: When • book online at
• visit a NPRSR business centre or Vallance. Photo: Tamara The tropical climate of North Queensland is authorised booking agent tempered by the elevation of the tablelands • phone 13 QGOV (13 74 68). (500–1200 m). Winter nights can be very Mobile phone charges may apply. cool with frosts in open areas. Summer days can be hot but temperatures drop Detailed information about camping areas is signifi cantly in the evenings. Rainfall available at
NPRSR Business Centre 25 Mabel Street Atherton QLD 4883 Phone: 13 QGOV (13 74 68) NPRSR Business Centre Level 4, Building 2, William McCormack Place 5B Sheridan St, Cairns QLD 4870 Phone: 13 QGOV (13 74 68) 4 Photo: Tourism Queensland. Photo: Tourism ueensland. Q The stories of the Atherton and Evelyn tablelands weave a colourful tapestry of
ancient connections and poignant experiences. Queensland. Photo: Tourism
Millstream daisy Photo: Tamara Vallance, NPRSR. World renowned A mosaic of vegetation SettlersSettlers ffromrom EuEuroperope andand thethe MiddleMiddle EastEast came to mine tin or gold, or cut timber. Declared in 1988, the Wet Tropics World Different forest types cover the tablelands, Kauri pine and red cedar were the most Heritage Area (WTWHA) covers 8990 km2 ranging from dry eucalypt woodlands to prized timbers and the industry thrived for between Townsville and Cooktown, including dense rainforest. This mosaic is the result decades. Many Chinese, Malays and Indians many parks and forests on the tablelands. of many factors—altitude (and its effect on came to farm; the Chinese established It contains many outstanding natural values, rainfall), prevailing winds, soil type and market gardens in the area. including some of the oldest, continuously fi re. Rainfall is the most dominant infl uence surviving rainforests on earth, many on forest type. The southern and eastern The construction of the Tinaroo Dam in the vulnerable and endangered plants and tablelands have the highest rainfall and 1950s provided irrigation for tobacco farms animals, and areas of spectacular beauty. therefore the most lush rainforest. in the Mareeba–Dimbulah area. The earth and concrete channels brought a guaranteed water supply to almost 40 500 ha of Volcanic landscape Animals of the tablelands undeveloped land and were a boost to the The Atherton and Evelyn tablelands contain The mosaic of vegetation on the tablelands local economy. landform and vegetation patterns that supports a wide variety of different refl ect events stretching back millions of animals—many found nowhere else in the Today, farming is still the major industry years, through times of changing landscape world. From tree-kangaroos and amethystine on the tablelands. Sugar cane, potatoes, and climate. pythons (Australia’s largest snake) to unique peanuts, maize, strawberries, coffee, beef native fi sh, more than 370 species of birds and dairy cattle, macadamia nuts, avocados As the last Ice Age receded and warmer, and a myriad of insects and spiders, the and fl owers are all farmed here. Tourism is a moist conditions returned, surviving tablelands offers a range of wildlife viewing newer, but fl ourishing, industry. rainforest communities began to expand opportunities. until they again covered much of the tablelands. Numerous volcanoes erupted and lava fl owed over this landscape, Mining, forestry and farming resulting in today’s conical hills, fl ooded The tablelands have a rich colonial history, craters and rich red soils. dating back to the mid 1800s. Many towns were established as gold and tin mining When Europeans came in the 1890s, they centres or as camps for loggers and timber began to transform the continuous forest getters. Others were established as railway
into the rural landscape—a patchwork of and trackside towns. Queensland. Photo: Tourism farmed land and remnant forest—we see today. Below: Cycad fronds. Inset: Water lilies.
Farming is the major industry on the tablelands, Queensland. Traditional country The Aboriginal Traditional Owners of country on the Atherton and Evelyn tablelands have a spiritual link with the land. Their culture
Photo: Tourism Queensland. Tourism Photo: is recognised as a unique and irreplaceable part of the tablelands’ heritage. The groups share spiritual beliefs on the creation of the landscape and their rights and responsibilities for using and caring for their land and resources. Traditional ceremonial and burial places, as well as camping and hunting sites, are located across the tableland landscape, linked by a network of trails. Many of these trails have now been developed into highways, roads and modern
Photo: Peter Nieves, vNPRSR. Nieves, Peter Photo: day walking tracks. 5 Granite outcrops, open forest, the impressive Clohesy River fi g tree and boulder-strewn creeks and waterfalls are striking features of these parks. Swim, drive, hike, mountain
bike, camp or picnic in this beautiful area. Queensland. Photo: Tourism
Davies Creek and Turtle Rock circuit trail Kahlpahlim Rock trail Dinden national parks 8 km return (3–4 hrs) Grade: diffi cult 10.8 km return (6 hrs) Grade: diffi cult This diffi cult trail—suitable only for fi t and This trail, starting 13.3 km along Davies experienced walkers—starts near the toilet Creek Road (2.3 km past the start of the block between camp sites three and four Ridge trail) ascends steeply along a former Rainforest cloaks the eastern slopes in the Dinden camping area and climbs logging track before passing through and lush riparian vegetation lines the the ridge to the 936 m summit. Here there rainforest and crossing two small creeks. banks of the creeks and rivers. These forests are impressive boulders and spectacular It then climbs through dry forest to a contrast starkly with the wet schlerophyll views in all directions. The trail descends junction. The right-hand trail continues for and dry open woodland in the rest of the via a different ridge, crossing Davies Creek 1 km to the enormous granite boulders of parks. Endangered northern bettongs between camp sites fi ve and six. Kahlpahlim Rock. are found here, as are southern brown bandicoots—a long way from the nearest Kahlpahlim Rock circuit Kahlpahlim Rock circuit known population on Cape York Peninsula. (Kahlpahlim Rock and 12.3 km return (6–7 hrs) Ridge trails) Grade: diffi cult At around 1300 m above sea level, This trail can be walked as a circuit starting Kahlpahlim Rock is the highest point on the at either trail head described above. Walk Lamb Range and boasts impressive views. 2.3 km along Davies Creek Road to return to Two steep but scenic trails lead to the granite the car park. boulders of Kahlpahlim Rock. They converge near the top allowing the option to walk the Davies Creek camping area is among Photo: NPRSR. track as a circuit. granite boulders beside the crystal clear waters of Davies Creek. Camping Ridge trail permits are required and fees apply (see 9.2 km return (5 hrs) Grade: diffi cult page 4).
Starting 11 km along Davies Creek Road (1 km The popular Dinden camping area is beyond the turn-off to Dinden camp sites fi ve nestled among tall open forest higher up and six), this trail travels through open forest the hill, close to the clear waters of Davies of rose gum, turpentine and casuarina trees Creek. Camping permits are required and before climbing steeply to a junction. The left- fees apply (see page 4). Camp sites must Northern bettongs are found in Davies Creek hand trail continues for 1 km to the enormous be booked. National Park. granite boulders of Kahlpahlim Rock. Valley views from the Davies Creek Falls circuit track. Davies Creek Falls circuit track 1.1 km return (20 mins) Grade: easy This circuit track starts 2 km along the road beyond the Davies Creek camping area and leads to lookouts over the valley and the spectacular Davies Creek Falls, before continuing alongside the creek to a picnic and swimming area. The track returns via a slope dotted with grass trees. Clohesy River fi g tree boardwalk 300 m return (20 mins) Grade: easy This wheelchair-accessible boardwalk encircles the magnifi cent Clohesy River fi g tree. Signs along the walk interpret the local rainforest environment.
6 Photo: Julie Dutoit. Clohesy River Road Dinden West Forest Reserve 33 km return (2 hrs) Safety Visitors are responsible for their own Explore the Shoteel Creek and Clohesy River safety (see pages 18 and 19). valleys on this scenic drive. The Clohesy Emerald Creek rushes out of the River fi g tree is 9 km along the road. Four- • Stay behind the barriers and rainforest-clad heights of the Lamb wheel-drive vehicles are required along with clear of cliff edges and steep rock Range and down into open eucalypt a Wet Tropics Management Authority permit faces—deaths have occurred here. woodland. Red-fl owered bottlebrush trees (see page 4) if travelling beyond the fi g tree. • Take care when walking near the sprout from between rocks and smooth- There is no through access to Cairns and creek—water levels in the creeks barked water gums lean over the creek, vehicles must return from the way can change rapidly and without their trunks twisted by fl oodwaters. they came. warning, and creek beds and rock surfaces can be slippery. Emerald Creek Falls walking track • Never jump or dive into the 1.9 km return (50 mins) water—the creeks are shallow and Grade: moderate there may be submerged objects. From the car park, this track winds up the valley through dry sclerophyll forest To access Davies Creek National of eucalypts, acacias and grevilleas to Park camping area and walking a vantage point offering views over the track, turn onto Davies Creek Road from falls, back along the valley and across the the Kennedy Highway, 21 km south of northern tableland. Kuranda. It is 6.2 km along an unsealed road to the camping area. For most of the Near the creek, look out for dragonfl ies and damselfl ies. These captivating year the road is accessible to conventional insects are a common sight around sunlit vehicles. sections of the creek. The giant petalurid To access Dinden National Park camping dragonfl y, the largest dragonfl y in Australia, is occasionally seen here. area and walking tracks, turn onto Davies Creek Road from the Kennedy Highway, 21 km south of Kuranda and travel 10 km Safety to the camping area. Visitors are responsible for their own safety (see pages 18 and 19). The ridge trail starts 3.3 km past this • Be aware of slippery rocks when camping area and the Kahlpahlim Rock paddling in the creek. trail head is a further 2.3 km along this • Never jump or dive into the water— road. Access Clohesy River Road from the creek is shallow and there may the Kennedy Highway, 10 km south of be submerged objects. Kuranda. Four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended. From the Kennedy Highway, turn onto Tinaroo Creek Road, 3 km east of Mareeba. Travel 3 km and turn onto Cobra Road and travel 8 km to the forest. The road is steep, mostly unsealed and unsuitable Photo: Julie Dutoit, NPRSR. Left: Enjoy driving the Clohesy River Road. for caravans.
To Kuranda Legend C National park lo Bilwon he sy State forest State Forest C R er R lo iv o Forest reserve he ad sy River Dinden Water National Park Dinden West Waterfall Forest Reserve Waterways Clohesy River Wet Tropics C Management Authority Highway fig tree boardwalk l oh e permit required s Unsealed road y R Unsealed road iv (permit required) k R e ree oad r dle C Unsealed road ri (no motorised access) KENNEDY B D Walking track ies C a Dav re v e ies Parking E HIGHWAY k C m R k Lake Morris er o Toilet a a ld C Davies Creek d re ek Ridge trail Wheelchair access To Mareeba camping area Davies Creek Tent camping Falls circuit Car camping Em Davies Creek er Kahlpahlim al National Park Picnic table d C re Dinden camping area Rock Fireplace ek R oa Short walk d Kahlpahlim Mount Turtle Hiking track Rock trail Turtle Rock Lookout circuit trail Locked gate Emerald Creek Falls walk Vehicle access Little Mulgrave prohibited Dinden West Dinden Forest Reserve Forest Reserve Trail bikes prohibited Scale National Park 0 2 4 6 8 km
7 Clear, blue crater lakes fringed by lush rainforests, cent fi g trees, waterfalls giant kauri pines and magnifi and Aboriginal culture. Swim, walk, birdwatch, canoe,
take a cruise or picnic in these beautiful parks. Queensland. Photo: Tourism
Lake Eacham, Crater Lakes Lake Barrine, Crater Lakes Rainforest walk National Park National Park 600 m one way (15 mins) Grade: easy This rainforest track starts on the entrance road into Lake Barrine and joins the circuit track just past the twin kauri boardwalk. The Aboriginal Traditional Owners, A pair of towering bull kauri pine trees, the Ngadjon-Jii, welcome you to Lake over 45 m tall, is a feature of the park. Amethystine pythons, with dazzling Eacham. Please enjoy your time here and Take a lake cruise for a different perspective patterns that blend cryptically into the take care of their sacred country. of the lake and its wildlife. forest, live around the lake. Colourful Boyd’s Lake Eacham is a maar—a volcanic forest dragons, lizards that grow to 45 cm, crater formed by massive explosions Lake circuit track cling to narrow tree trunks. resulting from superheating of groundwater. 5 km return (2 hrs) Grade: easy The crater has fi lled with water, forming a to moderate lake 65 m deep. Safety A pleasant walk around the crater lake, the Visitors are responsible for their own Lake circuit track track passes through rainforest characteristic safety (see pages 18 and 19). 3 km return (1 hr) Grade: easy of the type found on fertile basalt (red) soils • Stinging trees may be encountered to moderate in areas of high rainfall. It offers secluded along the tracks. Never touch this forest-fringed views of the lake and excellent A pleasant walk around the lake, this track plant as it will result in a painful sting. offers secluded forest-fringed views of opportunities for viewing wildlife. If stung and symptoms are severe, the lake and excellent opportunities for seek medical advice. viewing wildlife. Signs present the rainforest Twin kauris walk 160 m return (10 mins) Grade: easy environment through the eyes of the Lake Barrine is on the eastern Aboriginal Traditional Owners. Walk from the lower car park to the Atherton Tableland. Follow the signs Active children’s walk boardwalk at the base of two exceptionally from the Gillies Highway near the top of the 1.4 km return (1 hr) Grade: easy large bull kauri pine trees that tower over the Gillies Range. canopy. These ancient giants are believed to Have fun while learning about the be more than 1000 years old. rainforest and its inhabitants. Wriggle like a snake, stamp on pests and hunt for dragons on this fun walk for kids (and adults). The Below: Take a cruise on Lake Barrine, Queensland. time taken will depend on how much fun you’re having. Left: The timber teahouse at Lake Barrine, Queensland was built in the 1930s. Saw-shelled turtles and eastern water dragons are common lake residents and over 180 bird species have been recorded in the park. Musky rat-kangaroos are active during the day and are often seen from the walking track.
Safety Queensland. Tourism Photo: Visitors are responsible for their own safety (see pages 18 and 19). • Stinging trees may be encountered along the tracks. Never touch this plant as it will result in a painful sting. If stung and symptoms are severe, seek medical advice.
Lake Eacham is on the eastern Atherton Tableland. Follow the signs from the Gillies Highway or Lake Barrine– Malanda Road.
8 Queensland. Photo: Tourism Curtain Fig National Park
Endangered mabi forest surrounds this magnifi cent tree—one of the best-known attractions in North Queensland. A wide curtain of the fi g’s aerial roots drops 15 m from the canopy to the ground. Curtain Fig boardwalk 180 m return (10 mins) Grade: easy A short, gently sloping boardwalk takes visitors around the tree while protecting the fragile root system. Look for near threatened (rare) species including Lumholtz’s tree-kangaroos, Herbert River ringtail possums and rainforest skinks. Spotlight in the canopy for nocturnal mammals, reptiles, frogs, insects and spiders.
Safety Photo: Tamara Vallance, NPRSR. Vallance, Photo: Tamara Visitors are responsible for their own safety (see pages 18 and 19). The veil of aerial roots of the Curtain Fig Tree. • Please remain on the boardwalk at all times. Bartle Frere Trail, Turn onto Curtain Fig Tree Road from the Gillies Range Road, on the western Wooroonooran National Park outskirts of Yungaburra, and travel 1 km to Wooroonooran National Park covers a vast the car park. area of mountainous rainforest on the eastern edge of the tablelands. It includes Malanda Falls Queensland’s two highest peaks, Bartle Frere (1622 m) and Bellenden Ker (1592 m). Conservation Park A long-distance walking trail climbs to the Bartle Frere summit from either Josephine Falls, on the lowlands, or near Topaz on The Aboriginal Traditional Owners, the Atherton Tableland. The Bartle Frere the Ngadjon-Jii, welcome you to trail guide is available at visitor information Tutamonlin (Malanda Falls). Please enjoy centres; and updated track conditions, your time here and take care of their Photo: NPRSR. camping bookings and information are sacred country. available at
sightsee, walk, swim, canoe, picnic or camp overnight. Queensland. Photo: Tourism
Danbulla National Park Regeneration walk Kauri Creek camping area and Danbulla State Forest 2.3 km one way (45 mins) The Danbulla forest extends between Grade: easy the Tinaroo and Lamb ranges, and This camping area is on the edge of a quiet inlet that is borders Lake Tinaroo. Eucalypt and acacia well suited to a peaceful swim or exploration by canoe. forests, pine plantations and Wet Tropics This track links the Downfall Creek and Kauri Creek camping areas. World Heritage rainforest support a variety Before the dam was built, this of wildlife including many endangered, area was a dairy farm, and the near threatened (rare), and threatened land was either left to regenerate Kauri Creek day-use area species. or planted with pines. The forest that persists today is the result of All camp sites at Danbulla must be natural revegetation that has been Hidden in pine plantations and native booked and camping fees apply. occurring since 1959. forest, this small day-use area is ideal for a family stopover. Children can paddle in As mobile phone service is unreliable, it the shallow sandy rainforest creek while is best to book a site before starting the parents enjoy the picnic and barbecue drive. Dogs are not permitted in camping facilities in the shaded surrounds. areas and campers need to supply their own fi rewood. The use of generators is only permitted at some camping areas and conditions apply. Please check camping Legend area details. Protected area Lake Sealed road Unsealed road Walking track Platypus Rock lookout Information shelter 150 m return (5 mins) Grade: easy
Climb the steps onto the huge granite boulders for a unique view of the plantation and forest canopy. Lake Euramoo
Lake Tinaroo Platypus camping area and spillway day-use area Tinaroo
This joint camping and day-use area is in a hoop pine plantation that was Lake Tinaroo established in 1971. Popular with anglers, this area overlooks the dam Scale 0 1 2 km wall. Parking is a short distance from camp sites. To Kairi
Fong-On Bay camping area Curri Curri camp sites Downfall Creek camping area
On the foreshore, 4.5 km from Danbulla Road, this large camping Curri Curri camp sites can be accessed by boat This popular camping area looks over tall area is favoured by water skiers and only and have no facilities. The separate sites pine plantations and native forests and has can accommodate groups of all sizes. may have long grass and, when dam levels are uninterrupted water views. Camp sites are Most camp sites along this peninsula high, site area is reduced. separated by native vegetation that attracts have water access and views. birds and butterfl ies. 1100 At night, catch a glimpse of an endangered northern bettong as it searches for truffl es in the wet sclerophyll forest. In the rainforest, look for the near threatened green-eyed tree frogs and well- camoufl aged Boyd’s forest dragons. The variety of habitats and vegetation types also support a wide range of bird species so always take binoculars.
Photo: Tamara Vallance, NPRSR. Vallance, Photo: Tamara Several public boat ramps are The gently sloped and grassy Downfall Creek camping area. available around Lake Tinaroo. Fisheries regulations apply—information on bag and size limits, restricted species Kauri Creek rainforest walk Link track and seasonal closures is available from 5.1 km return (2.5 hrs) Grade: diffi cult 600 m one way (15 mins) Grade: easy
To Gillies Highway Cathedral Fig Tree 325 m return (15 mins) Grade: easy
The Chimneys day-use area The Cathedral Fig Tree is one of the tablelands’ famous rainforest giants. A boardwalk around the tree provides great views up the Following World War I, land in the Danbulla area was trunk and into the canopy, while offered to returned soldiers for clearing and farming. protecting the tree’s fragile roots. Settlers battled to make a living from the small blocks, Dawn chorus at the Cathedral Fig is with poor soil fertility and native animals hampering one of the best on the tableland— their efforts. Many blocks, like the one on which this be sure to bring a camera and day-use area is located, were abandoned. The chimneys binoculars. are all that remain of the house built in 1924. Photo: Tamara Vallance, NPRSR. Vallance, Photo: Tamara 1111 112 2 has panor follows Priors Creek tothesummit, which From thecar park andplayground, thetrack Conservation Park Hill Hallorans overlooking thetownship of Atherton. rainforest around anextinct volcanic hill, same track. for a vehicle pick uporreturn alongthe council picnic area is provided here.Arrange
Hike above the town of Atherton, view resident and migratory birds from a two-storey hide, take long drives in the forest or walk through endangered rainforest on tracks designed for the visually impaired, all within a stone’s throw of Atherton. Grade: moderate 1.4 kmoneway (40mins) track walking Hill Hallorans and patches of endangered mabi This park protects openeucalypt forest amic views acro amic views ss the tableland. A and eastern water dragons. red-legged pademelons, spottedcatbirds eucalypt woodland. Duringtheday, look for and birds abound inboththerainforest and Insects, amphibians, reptiles,mammals the changes in vegetation alongits length. starts at thepark onMaunds Road. Please remain onthewalking track • safety (seepages 18and19). Visitors high diversity of fauna, by supported For asmall at all times. Atherton. Atherton. The track tothesummit Hallorans Hill is inthecentre of Safety are responsibl park, Hallora
Photo: Tamara Vallance, NPRSR. e fortheirown ns Hillhasa
Photo: Tamara Vallance, NPRSR. 1.3 kmalongthis well-formed, gravel road. and thenright onto Koci Road. The hideis Road. Herberton Turn left ontoHastie Road Hasties Sw Below: Eastern water dragon. diversity of fauna, includinginsects. HalloransHillCoLeft: Hallorans Hill Conservation Park. Far left: There area variety of vegetation types in important refuge forwaterbirds. swamp dries out andthearea becomes an is (April duringthedry toOctober)as the swamp. The best timeforbirdwatching species fromthetwo-storey birdhide. See upto220aquatic andwoodland refuge forresident andmigratory birds. Take care onthesteps of thebird • safety (seepages 18and19). Visitors hide, especially inwet weather. km south of Atherton onAtherton– km southof Atherton Hasties Swamp National Park is 4 uninterrupted views across the From thecomfort of thehide,enjoy wetland, renownedas a valuable Hasties Swamp is alarge seasonal Safety are responsibl amp Natio nservation P nservation e fortheirown ark nal Park has high
Photo: Tamara Vallance. Photo: NPRSR. Right: See hardheads at Hasties Swamp. In the rainforest, look for golden Below: Uninterrupted views of the swamp from the bowerbirds and Lumholtz’s tree- top fl oor of the hide. kangaroos. Yellow-bellied gliders are found in the wet sclerophyll forests, while red- bellied black snakes and azure kingfi shers
Photo: NPRSR. live along the creeks.
Safety Visitors are responsible for their own safety (see pages 18 and 19). • Mobile phone coverage is not reliable. • Tell friends or family where you are going and when you expect to return. • Stay on the track, observe warning signs and take care on uneven surfaces, especially in wet conditions.
Photo: Julie Dutoit, NPRSR. • Expect to share roads with pedestrians, motorbikes, bicycles, horses and vehicles. Wongabel State Forest Herberton Range State Forest • Watch out for washouts, scoured road shoulders and loose surfaces. and Baldy Mountain Forest Be especially careful in wet weather Reserve when some roads and creek This state forest protects endangered crossings may become impassable. mabi forest, less than two per cent of • Be aware of cattle and wildlife, which now remains. It also has rich timber Tall open forest of bloodwoods and especially in the early morning and history and is considered the birth place of late afternoon. reforestation in Queensland. ironbarks; wet, high-altitude rainforest surrounding the peaks; and lower slopes • Not all trails and roads are shown on The two tracks in Wongabel State and foothills cloaked with drier forest are the map (page 2) and intersections Forest have been designed with protected in this state forest and reserve. may or may not be signposted. consideration for walkers who are vision • All roads are suitable for four-wheel- impaired. Braille booklets, tactile maps Mount Baldy walking track drive vehicles only. and audio headsets are available from the 4.3 km return (2.5 hrs) Grade: diffi cult Atherton Information Centre, Main Street, This walk to the 1017 m summit of Mount For the Mount Baldy walking track, Atherton. The rocks lining the track serve Baldy offers extensive views of the Atherton travel 1.6 km south of Atherton on as a guide for walkers using canes, and Tableland and Lake Tinaroo. The walk has Atherton–Herberton Road. Turn right onto textured concrete panels act as tactile steep sections and is suitable only for fi t and Rifl e Range Road and travel 600 m, following indicators, warning of changes in track experienced walkers. the gun club signs, to the start of the track. direction. Herberton Range ridge road For the northern entrance to the Herberton Forest walk 17.5 km one way (1.5 hrs) Range ridge road, travel 1.6 km south of 750 m return (15 mins) Grade: easy This four-wheel-drive road winds through Atherton on Atherton–Herberton Road. This short walk travels deep into mabi forest. a section of the Herberton Range, rising Turn right onto Rifl e Range Road and travel Experience the unique features that make to just over 1200 m at the highest point. 1.8 km to the trail head sign at the start of this forest special and the animals that call Vehicles must be road registered. the Herberton Range ridge road. it home. Bush camp in various locations For the southern entrance to the Herberton throughout the forest. Dogs are not Range ridge road, travel 12 km south of Heritage walk permitted to camp overnight and vehicles Atherton on Atherton–Herberton Road. Turn 2.5 km return (1 hr) Grade: easy must remain adjacent to formed roads. right onto the dirt road and travel the short Learn about the history and culture of the Camping is not allowed along the Herberton distance to the trail head sign at the start of area while walking along the mabi forest- Range ridge road (see map, page 2). the Herberton Range ridge road. and plantation timber-fl anked track. Camping must be booked and fees apply (see Camping, page 4). Safety Visitors are responsible for their own safety (see pages 18 and 19). • Stinging trees may be encountered along the tracks. Never touch this plant as it will result in a painful sting. If stung and symptoms are severe, seek medical advice.
Wongabel State Forest is 8 km south of Atherton on the Kennedy Highway. Photo: Forestry Plantations Queensland. Plantations Photo: Forestry
Right: Talk by District Forester Suttie to visiting timber men at Wongabel, 15 October 1954.
1133 Queensland.
rest surrounding an Experience high-altitude rainfo Q Queensland. Photo: Tourism spotlight for possums awe-inspiring volcanic pipe and and gliders. Enjoy impressive waterfalls and scenery, and re-live the rich history of World War II.
Fringe lily Photo: Tamara Vallance, NPRSR.
Mount Hypipamee HerbertonHerberton Range National Park Safety CConservationonservation PaParkrk Visitors are responsible for their own safety (see pages 18 and 19). • Stinging trees may be encountered High on the southern Evelyn EndangeredEndangered wet schlschlerophyllerophyll forests along the tracks. Never touch this off yellowyellow stringybark, pink bloodwood, Tableland, in the Hugh Nelson Range, plant as it will result in a painful a deep, cylindrical volcanic pipe with a lake rose gums,s, turpentines, Bakers oak, coastal sting. If stung and symptoms are banksia, forestrest red gum and Gympie messmate at the bottom is the awe-inspiring feature of severe, seek medical advice. are protectedd in this conservationconservation park. this park. The volcanic pipe, or diatreme, is thought to have been created by a massive • Remain on the walking tracks at all Halls Fallslls track gas explosion. The crater is less than 70 m times and stay behind the fence at 520 m returnrn (15 mins) across with sheer granite walls (the surface the viewing platform. Supervise Grade: moderateerate rock through which the gas exploded). children closely. Take this short walk throughthro a forest of Fifty-eight metres below the rim is a lake • Cassowaries are potentially brushbox to where numerous streams of cool, about 82 m deep covered with a green layer dangerous. Be cass-o-wary. clear water tumble gently over the polished of native waterweed. A remarkable variety granite walls. This is a walking track only— of vegetation types, including high-altitude horses and bicycles are not permitted. rainforest, grow in this small park. Mount Hypipamee is on the Kennedy Highway, 25 km south of Atherton. Drovers lookout track Crater track The park can also be reached from Malanda 250 m return (10 mins) Grade: easy 800 m return (30 mins) (15 km) via a partially unsealed road past This short walk to Drovers Lookout rewards Grade: easy Bromfi eld Swamp. visitors with expansive eastern views over the tablelands. Remember to take a camera. This A sealed track through the rainforest track is for walking and horseriding only. leads to a viewing platform overlooking the crater. Return the same way or via the Dinner Falls track. Water reserve (Tablelands Dinner Falls track Regional 1.2 km return (40 mins) Council) Herberton Range Grade: moderate Legend National Park To Kennedy Highway National park and Atherton An alternative route back to Conservation the car park from the crater, park this track leads down to Dinner Water reserve Falls, a series of cascades in the Rivers and creeks headwaters of the Barron River. Access roads The track surface is uneven with Horses and registered exposed rocks and roots and Road vehicles can be slippery when wet. Some Walking and Drovers lookout
sections are reasonably steep. horses Plath Walking track Drovers track Several species of possum only (no horses)
Viewpoint Herberton Range can be seen here. Look Conservation Park for upland rainforest birds, Waterfall including a number of endemic Hill R oad Halls Falls species which are found only in E the Wet Tropics. These include To Wondecla Herberton Range
E Hill/Plath Road Victoria’s rifl ebird, the bridled and Herberton National Park honeyeater and golden and
tooth-billed bowerbirds. Scale 0 500 1000 m Mount Hypipamee National Park 1144 Ride or four-wheel-drive the Special provisions have been made to To Atherton
K
network of Herberton Range allow horseriding on roads in Tumoulin e n ne CoConservation Park’s internal roads. Vehicles State Forest. Only gazetted roads are shown d y
H
mumusts be road registered. Only some roads on the map and intersections may or may i g
h are shshown on the map and intersections not be signposted. w a may or may not be signposted. y To Millaa Millaa vely t E n s a Road SpSpeciale provisions have been made Safety E Road Kidner to aallowll horseriding on roads in Visitors are responsible for their own Millstream
Tumoulin d Conservation a McKenzie Herberton RangeRa Conservation Park. safety (see pages 18 and 19). State Forest o Park R Road
Horseriding is only permitted on the roads • Expect to share roads with lin ou m inindicateddicated on tthehe map and intersections may pedestrians, motorbikes, bicycles, Tu oad or may not be signposted.sign R horses and vehicles. McKenzie ith Falls Sm • Watch out for washouts, scoured Tumoulin A llen Road SafetySafety road shoulders and loose surfaces. Legend Be especially careful in wet weather State forest Tumoulin Visitors are responsiblresponsi e for their own Forest Reserve when some roads and creek Forest reserve safety (see pages 18 aand 19). Conservation park Millstre a crossings may become impassable. m Waterways • Mobile phone coveragecovera is not reliable. R y
i a v w Highway e h • Tell friends or family wwhereh you are r ig Major sealed road y H ned goinggoing and when you expectexp to return. There are three main access routes Minor sealed road Ken Ravenshoe into Tumoulin State Forest—McKenzie, Unsealed road Scale • Expect to share roadsroads with 0 Viewpoint 2 4 km pedestrians,pedestrians, mmotorbot ikes, bicycles, Smith and Allen roads. All vehicles, horseshorses andand vehicles. including motorbikes, must be road • WatchWatch out for washouts, scoured registered and internal roads are suitable for Big Millstream Falls lookout four-wheel-drive vehicles only. Please leave roadro shoulders and loose surfaces. 680 m return (15 mins) gates as you fi nd them. Be especially careful in wet weather Grade: moderate when some roads and creek crossings McKenzie Road access may become impassable. Follow the steep but sealed walking track From Atherton, travel 30 km south on the through the forest to the lookout over Big • Be aware of wildlife, especially in the Kennedy Highway. Turn right onto Tumoulin Millstream Falls. Rock seats are provided early morning and late afternoon. Road and travel 18.6 km to Kidner Road. along the track and at the lookout. After turning left onto Kidner Road, drive From Herberton, travel south on 2.4 km to McKenzie Road. Alternatively, World War II Heritage track Longlands Gap Road for 3.2 km and from Ravenshoe, travel north-east and then 1 km return (45 mins) Grade: easy turn left onto Rolley Road, following it for north for 16.5 km on the Kennedy Highway. Enjoy this easy walk through an area used 2.4 km, then turn right onto E Hill Road. At Kidner Road, turn left and travel 4.5 km by the 2/14th and 2/28th Battalions of the Drive 3.3 km along this road to the park. to McKenzie Road. On McKenzie Road, drive 800 m to where the road divides into three. Australian Army during the second world war. From Atherton, travel south on the Kennedy Take the righthand side road, turning sharply Informative signs tell about how the soldiers Highway for 14.1 km, then turn right onto right before the gate and travelling along the lived, worked and played. Plath Road and follow it 3.4 km to the park. fence line to the boundary. Little Millstream Falls track Tumoulin State Forest and Smith Road access 700 m return (25 mins) From Atherton, travel 41.5 km south on Grade: moderate to diffi cult Tumoulin Forest Reserve the Kennedy Highway. Turn right onto Follow the steep and narrow walking track Smith Road and travel 2.7 km to the forest to the base of Little Millstream Falls. Enjoy boundary. From Ravenshoe, travel north- views of the falls from numerous points along The Aboriginal Traditional Owners east and then north for 9 km on the Kennedy the track. (TOs) of this area—the Jirrbal people— Highway. Turn left onto Smith Road and travel 2.7 km to the forest boundary. welcome you to Tumoulin State Forest. The Safety Jirrbal TOs continue their cultural obligations Allen Road access and ask that visitors respect and care for the Visitors are responsible for their own At Tumoulin, turn off the Kennedy Highway safety (see pages 18 and 19). area. The area is rich in cultural history and Road into Allen Road and travel 2.1 km to has many signifi cant sites and story places. the forest boundary. • The gravel track to the base of Little Millstream Falls is slippery and Endangered schlerophyll forest injuries have occurred. Please do not provides habitat for vulnerable and Millstream Falls National Park use this track unless you are a fi t and near threatened species like the yellow- confi dent walker. bellied glider, magnifi cent broodfrog and • The rocks at the base of Little rufous owl. The Aboriginal Traditional Owners Millstream Falls can be slippery. McKenzie Falls track (TOs) of this area—the Jirrbal people— • Always carry water, wear a hat and 600 m return (15 mins) Grade: easy welcome you to Millstream Falls National sturdy footwear, and try to walk in Park. The Jirrbal TOs continue their cultural the cooler part of the day. Walk through the forest from the car park obligations and ask that visitors respect and to the top of McKenzie Falls. The Millstream care for the area. The area is rich in cultural River tumbles over this multi-tiered waterfall To access Big Millstream Falls, travel history and has many signifi cant sites and 3.5 km south-west of Ravenshoe on its way down the Millstream Valley. story places. on Mount Garnet Road. Turn left into the Drive or ride Tumoulin State Plunging over the edge of a columnar signposted entrance and drive 1 km to the Forest’s network of internal basalt lava fl ow, Big Millstream Falls picnic area. Parking for long vehicles is roads. Vehicles must be road registered. is reputedly the widest single-drop waterfall available. Only gazetted roads are shown on the in Australia. Here, in the rain shadow of To access Little Millstream Falls, travel along map and intersections may or may not be the Great Dividing Range, the dry, open signposted. The internal roads are suitable the Tully Falls Road for 3 km from Ravenshoe woodland vegetation is dominated by then turn right onto Wooroora Road and drive for four-wheel-drive vehicles only. eucalypts. 1.5 km to the signposted turn off. 1155 stunning Visit one of Australia’s most waterfalls, marvel at escarpment views or walk, drive, picnic, bicycle or camp in
this scenic cloud-swathed landscape. Queensland. Photo: Tourism
Tully Gorge and Tully Falls Wabunga Wayemba, Tully Falls Koombooloomba National national parks National Park Park and Koombooloomba 5.2 km return (2 hrs) Grade: moderate Conservation Park Enjoy this walk through the rainforest to a waterfall where clear mountain water The Aboriginal Traditional Owners cascades over moss-coated rocks into a (TOs) of this area—the Jirrbal people— shallow pool. The track can be accessed The Aboriginal Traditional Owners welcome you to Tully Gorge and Tully Falls from two points. About 1 km from the start (TOs) of this area—the Jirrbal people— national parks. The Jirrbal TOs continue their of the fi rst access, a 300 m return steep side welcome you to Koombooloomba National cultural obligations and ask that visitors track with steps leads from a shelter shed to Park and Conservation Park. The Jirrbal TOs respect and care for the area. The area is rich a viewing deck overlooking the falls. Walking continue their cultural obligations and ask in cultural history and has many signifi cant along the road (1.7 km) between the access that visitors respect and care for the area. sites and story places. points is not recommended. The area is rich in cultural history and has many signifi cant sites and story places. These parks protect a range of vegetation types—from diverse, Misty Mountains wilderness upland rainforest on red basalt soils to tall, walking tracks Tully Falls Tully Gorge open forest on grey-brown rhyolite soils. This 130 km network of short and long- National Park National Park The water supply from Tully Falls is held in distance walking tracks offers visitors Tully Gorge an opportunity to explore otherwise Legend Koombooloomba Dam and diverted through lookout a hydro-electric power station. This is one of inaccessible parts of the Wet Tropics National park Koombooloomba the wettest areas in Queensland. World Heritage Area. There is also a road Conservation National Park park T u l network suitable for four-wheel-drive Water ly Fa l l Koombooloomba Tully Gorge lookout, Tully Gorge vehicles. A Misty Mountains wilderness Waterways s
R Tully R Dam o i
ve
walking tracks trail guide is available Unsealed road a r National Park d
from visitor information centres; and Lookout Koombooloomba From the lookout enjoy spectacular views of Conservation Park the deep gorge and Tully River below. The updated track conditions, camping Camping dam upstream restricts water fl ow over the bookings and information are available Day-use area falls. It is only during the wet season, when at
d a the entire system fl oods, that water thunders o ree k
C k R e a e
over the rock face and down the gorge. g r Safety ha c C t i a Koombooloomba Visitors are responsible for their own N g a bush camping h River walk, Tully Gorge itc area safety (see pages 18 and 19). N
National Park
• The boardwalks and tracks can be d a
14 km return (45 mins) slippery when wet. o Koombooloomba R camping and k Grade: moderate R e day-use area • Enjoy the view but remain behind the e e r
d C
R l
lookout safety fence at all times. o l Koombooloomba Starting beside the lookout, walk through a a
d National Park W woodlands to the Tully River and a patch • Do not venture onto the rocks in the of endangered vine forest featuring red Tully River. Water, released from the
mahogany trees. dam upstream, can cause river levels Scale 0 1 2 3 4 km to rise rapidly and without warning. A thundering Tully Falls—now only seen during the wet season when the entire system fl oods. Access the Wabunga Wayemba walk Endangered wet schlerophyll forest, from one of two trail heads. The fi rst dry forest and upland rainforest is 11.5 km from Ravenshoe on Tully Falls surround Koombooloomba Dam. Road; the second is a further 1.7 km The parks are home to endangered, along the road. near threatened and vulnerable species including Lumholtz’s Tully Gorge lookout is 24 km south of tree-kangaroos, Herbert River Ravenshoe on Tully Falls Road. Turn left at ringtail possums, red goshawks, the sign and follow the 1 km unsealed road yellow-bellied gliders and to the car park. The road is slippery when Photo: Barry Schmith, NPRSR. NPRSR. Schmith, Photo: Barry golden bowerbirds. wet and caravans are not recommended.
Lumholtz’s tree-kangaroo 1166 Photo: NPRSR. Bush camp along Wall and Nitchaga Blencoe Falls, Girringun Creek roads in Koombooloomba To Mount Garnet National Park or in the defi ned bushing National Park 96 km camping area on the waterfront. Koombooloomba Conservation Park also Blencoe Falls has a camping area, with defi ned sites and Blencoe Falls is part of the camping area some facilities. Camp sites must be booked traditional lands of the and fees apply (see Camping, page 4). Warungnu Aboriginal people. They Mobile service is not available in the park hope that you will enjoy your visit so bookings must be made prior to leaving and respect their sacred place. Ravenshoe. Open forest dominates the Drive or ride the parks’ roads. escarpments of the Blencoe Vehicles must be road registered. and Herbert gorges and she-oaks Only some roads are shown on the map and line the creeks and rivers. Along
intersections may or may not be signposted. the gullies and upper slopes of k
the Herbert River Gorge, the vine- l
a Blencoe Falls
thicket rainforest is scattered with w Koombooloomba Dam is popular li W hoop pines. a e with water skiers and anglers. b Blencoe t a T
J Falls r The dam is not part of the national park or o Blencoe Falls lookout lookout p ic conservation park. Be aware of submerged s 400 m return (20 mins) G trees and other hazards and be mindful re Grade: easy a of sudden storms that can signifi cantly t Wa reduce visibility. Fisheries regulations Near the car park, the Herbert lk Herbert River apply—information on bag and size limits, River Gorge lookout provides amazing views of the Herbert River Gorge lookout restricted species and seasonal closures is as it meanders its way through available from
Blencoe Falls is 96 km south-east of Mount Garnet. From Mount Garnet travel west for 4 km along the Kennedy
Photo: Ian Holloway, NPRSR. Photo: Ian Holloway, Highway and turn left onto Gunnawarra Road. After 52 km, turn left onto Kirrama– Cashmere Road and travel the last 40 km to the falls. Access is possible only during dry conditions and four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended. There is no access from the coast via the Kirrama Range Road.
1177 Photo: NPRSR.
Be cass-o-wary Cassowaries are an endangered species found throughout the rainforests and nearby woodlands and swamps of North Queensland. These large, fl ightless birds Photo: NPRSR. play an important role in the dispersal of rainforest plant seeds. Cassowary populations face a variety of threats and, as habitat disappears, human contact with cassowaries is increasing. Cassowary behaviour is unpredictable—they are known to kick with their large clawed feet and this can be dangerous for people.
Cassowaries are potentially dangerous. Avoid unnecessary risks and help protect cassowaries by following these guidelines in cassowary territory.
• Never approach cassowaries. • Never approach chicks—male cassowaries will defend them. • Never feed cassowaries—it is illegal, dangerous and has caused cassowary deaths. • Always slow down when driving in cassowary territory. • Never stop your vehicle to look at cassowaries on the road. • Always discard food scraps in closed bins.
Report cassowary sightings and incidents by emailing
Stinging trees Stinging trees are found alongside tracks, in clearings and on forest edges on the tablelands. They grow to 4 m high and have large, heart-shaped leaves with serrated edges. Touching any part of the plant— including the leaves (dead or alive), fruit and stem—will result in a very painful sting. If you are stung, and symptoms are severe, seek medical attention. NPRSR. Vallance, Photo: Tamara
1188 Photo: NPRSR. Photo: Tourism Queensland. Photo: Tourism
Safety in parks and forests • Stay on formed walking tracks and roads. Visitors must be well prepared and Do not cut corners or create new tracks responsible for their own safety. or roads. • Rules for fi res and generators vary in • Supervise children closely. the different parks and forests. Check • Take care when driving. Many of the roads camping area information before are unsealed and have sharp curves booking. and rough surfaces. Take your time and • Take care not to pollute fresh water. Photo: Tourism Queensland. Photo: Tourism read the signs. Be aware of vehicles, Do not use soap, shampoo or detergents pedestrians and wildlife on the road. in streams or lakes. • Always let someone know your travel • Ensure you are aware of current fi re plans. bans and restrictions. Check details • Keep to the tracks and heed safety and for the Tablelands Regional Shire at warning signs.
and opportunities
National park (NP) Conservation park (CP) Forest reserve (FR) Page no Page Toilets area Day-use Camping or Caravan sites trailer short Easy, walks or Harder walks longer Natural lookout Constructed lookout Boating Fishing Web page Bartle Frere Trail, Wooroonooran NP 9 Blencoe Falls, Girringun NP 17 Curtain Fig NP 9 Danbulla NP, SF and FR 10–11 ** Davies Creek NP 6–7 Dinden NP 6–7 Dinden West Forest Reserve 7 Forty Mile Scrub NP Hallorans Hill NP 12 Hasties Swamp NP 12 Herberton Range SF and 13 Baldy Mountain FR Herberton Range CP 14–15 Koombooloomba NP and CP 16–17 ** Lake Barrine, Crater Lakes NP 8 * Lake Eacham, Crater Lakes NP 8 * Malanda Falls CP 9 Millstream Falls NP 15 Mount Hypipamee NP 14 Tully Falls NP 16 Tully Gorge NP 16 Tumoulin SF and FR 15 Undara Volcanic NP Wongabel SF 13 * Non-motorised crafts only. ** Camper trailers only, no caravans.
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