Gorge Visitor Centre. Centre. Visitor Gorge facilities with powered sites and communal kitchens. kitchens. communal and sites powered with facilities Photo: © Michael O’Connor
the track? Satisfy your curiosity by exploring the Carnarvon Carnarvon the exploring by curiosity your Satisfy track? the Both resorts have cabins and Takarakka also offers camping camping offers also Takarakka and cabins have resorts Both
What was that bird you saw or the little orchid you spied beside beside spied you orchid little the or saw you bird that was What October. 31 to March 1 from open is centre, visitor the from
Visitor Centre. The Carnarvon Gorge Wilderness Lodge, 3km 3km Lodge, Wilderness Gorge Carnarvon The Centre. Visitor fairy-wrens snapping up insects or a rummaging echidna. rummaging a or insects up snapping fairy-wrens
Takarakka Bush Resort, a 4km drive from the Carnarvon Gorge Gorge Carnarvon the from drive 4km a Resort, Bush Takarakka see whiptail wallabies grazing, apostle birds squabbling, busy busy squabbling, birds apostle grazing, wallabies whiptail see
At any time of year you can stay just outside the park at at park the outside just stay can you year of time any At
Enjoy a picnic or cook up a storm on a gas barbecue. You might might You barbecue. gas a on storm a up cook or picnic a Enjoy
qld.gov.au/camping . . of cool shady spots where you can rest and refresh. refresh. and rest can you where spots shady cool of
at advance in well site camp your Book experience. camping
The lush and inviting Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Area has plenty plenty has Area Visitor Gorge Carnarvon inviting and lush The
school holidays or hike your gear into Big Bend for a bush bush a for Bend Big into gear your hike or holidays school hot day on the road or after exploring the gorge’s many sites. sites. many gorge’s the exploring after or road the on day hot
camping area during the Easter, winter and spring Queensland Queensland spring and winter Easter, the during area camping amid grazing kangaroos and chattering birds after your long long your after birds chattering and kangaroos grazing amid
Set up your home away from home in the leafy Carnarvon Gorge Gorge Carnarvon leafy the in home from away home your up Set
Rejuvenate in a green oasis beneath tall eucalypts and palms palms and eucalypts tall beneath oasis green a in Rejuvenate
exploring Carnarvon Gorge and discover its many secrets. many its discover and Gorge Carnarvon exploring
Rest and relax and Rest © Qld Govt; © John Augusteyn John © Govt; Qld ©
place that will entice, inspire and recharge you. Spend a few days days few a Spend you. recharge and inspire entice, will that place
Ashdown Robert right): to (left Photos
relax over a picnic or explore along the creek—this is a special special a is creek—this the along explore or picnic a over relax
Mickey Creek Gorge walk (below) walk Gorge Creek Mickey
Enjoy Carnarvon Gorge your way. Tackle an adventurous walk, walk, adventurous an Tackle way. your Gorge Carnarvon Enjoy Exploring Carnarvon Creek (left); (left); Creek Carnarvon Exploring
Ashdown © Qld Govt (left) (left) Govt Qld © Ashdown
Stay a while a Stay Qld Govt (above left); Robert Robert left); (above Govt Qld
Govt (top); Robert Ashdown © © Ashdown Robert (top); Govt
Photos: Robert Ashdown © Qld Qld © Ashdown Robert Photos:
where you can go swimming. swimming. go can you where Gorge Visitor Area (left) Area Visitor Gorge
out, check road conditions at 131940.qld.gov.au or phone 13 19 40. 19 13 phone or 131940.qld.gov.au at conditions road check out, left); Picnicking at Carnarvon Carnarvon at Picnicking left);
floods, the Rock Pool is the only place in Carnarvon Gorge Gorge Carnarvon in place only the is Pool Rock the floods,
yellow-bellied glider (above (above glider yellow-bellied visit at dusk or dawn. or dusk at visit
rain, cutting access roads. If it’s flooded, forget it! Before you set set you Before it! forget flooded, it’s If roads. access cutting rain,
the bed of Carnarvon Creek by the turbulent water of past past of water turbulent the by Creek Carnarvon of bed the Gorge Camping Area (top); (top); Area Camping Gorge
might spy an elusive platypus. For the best wildlife watching watching wildlife best the For platypus. elusive an spy might within the national park and Carnarvon Creek rises rapidly after after rapidly rises Creek Carnarvon and park national the within Camping in Carnarvon Carnarvon in Camping
and turtles, or take a refreshing dip on a hot day. Carved from from Carved day. hot a on dip refreshing a take or turtles, and
Look for turtles basking in the sun, and if you’re quiet, you you quiet, you’re if and sun, the in basking turtles for Look conditions along the way. There are unsealed sections of road road of sections unsealed are There way. the along conditions
Linger in the shade of fig and casuarina trees watching for fish fish for watching trees casuarina and fig of shade the in Linger
Photographer Duncan McDermant, 1978 McDermant, Duncan Photographer Spot lots of wildlife from the shady banks of Carnarvon Creek. Creek. Carnarvon of banks shady the from wildlife of lots Spot
Carnarvon Gorge is remote so expect some challenging challenging some expect so remote is Gorge Carnarvon
Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Area Visitor Gorge Carnarvon
scents of the bush. the of scents
1.5km return from the Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Area Visitor Gorge Carnarvon the from return 1.5km
Ranger Mark Ranger
south-east of Emerald. Emerald. of south-east 600m return from Rock Pool car park or 3.6km from the the from 3.6km or park car Pool Rock from return 600m Photo: Ashdown Robert © Qld Govt
tranquillity enter the spirit. Breathe deeply and enjoy the the enjoy and deeply Breathe spirit. the enter tranquillity
Nature Trail Nature
rangers, appreciate every day. every appreciate rangers, Rock Pool Rock 241km and Roma of north 246km Rockhampton, of west
Ranger Russell Ranger
Hasten slowly in this wild place. Let the feeling of peace and and peace of feeling the Let place. wild this in slowly Hasten
is a privilege that I, and my fellow fellow my and I, that privilege a is south- 450km Brisbane, of north-west 740km approximately Short walks Short to feed. feed. to
suitable for wheelchair users who have someone to assist them. assist to someone have who users wheelchair for suitable
most spectacular national parks parks national spectacular most cliffs rising above the distant tree-line. Carnarvon Gorge is is Gorge Carnarvon tree-line. distant the above rising cliffs
out head they as gliders bellied
natural treasures of this very special park. park. special very this of treasures natural
entry point to the gorge for thousands of years. This track is is track This years. of thousands for gorge the to point entry
conserve one of Queensland’s Queensland’s of one conserve Feel the excitement build as you drive across plains towards towards plains across drive you as build excitement the Feel Listen for the calls of yellow- of calls the for Listen
your spirit discovering the wealth of cultural and and cultural of wealth the discovering spirit your
within a gap in Clematis Ridge, used by Aboriginal people as an an as people Aboriginal by used Ridge, Clematis in gap a within
opportunity to protect and and protect to opportunity
and avoid sudden movements. movements. sudden avoid and the source of many great rivers. great many of source the
Getting to the Gorge the to Getting
water and time. Awaken your senses and nurture nurture and senses your Awaken time. and water example of stencilled Aboriginal rock art. Baloon Cave is located located is Cave Baloon art. rock Aboriginal stencilled of example
its challenges. However, the the However, challenges. its the gorge at night. Be very quiet quiet very Be night. at gorge the
Great Dividing Range—the aptly-named ‘Roof of Queensland’, Queensland’, of ‘Roof aptly-named Range—the Dividing Great
side-gorges, their subtly-coloured walls carved by by carved walls subtly-coloured their side-gorges, Stroll among Carnarvon fan palms and ancient cycads to a fine fine a to cycads ancient and palms fan Carnarvon among Stroll
national park is not without without not is park national
Take a torch and go spotlighting in in spotlighting go and torch a Take up towering slopes and out onto the rugged plateaus of the the of plateaus rugged the onto out and slopes towering up
1km return from Baloon Cave car park car Cave Baloon from return 1km or amazing animal. Venture deep into cool, lush lush cool, into deep Venture animal. amazing or
Living and working on a remote remote a on working and Living
and trek some or all of the 87km Carnarvon Great Walk. Wind Wind Walk. Great Carnarvon 87km the of all or some trek and
Baloon Cave Cave Baloon Carnarvon Creek reveal a splendid scene, new plant plant new scene, splendid a reveal Creek Carnarvon green gorge below a lookout or answer the call of adventure adventure of call the answer or lookout a below gorge green
with care and respect. and care with
oasis. Let every twist and turn of boulder-strewn boulder-strewn of turn and twist every Let oasis. longer walks. Soak up the magnificent views over the luscious luscious the over views magnificent the up Soak walks. longer The formed track ends 1.5km from the Mickey Creek car park. car Creek Mickey the from 1.5km ends track formed The
heritage place and ask that you explore the country country the explore you that ask and place heritage white sandstone cliffs envelop a creek-side creek-side a envelop cliffs sandstone white sandstone walls and deep inside cool narrow side gorges on on gorges side narrow cool inside deep and walls sandstone the track are slippery and caution is needed on creek crossings. crossings. creek on needed is caution and slippery are track the
walks or discover hidden wonders tucked beneath towering towering beneath tucked wonders hidden discover or walks spectacular steep-sided gorge, where towering towering where gorge, steep-sided spectacular Aboriginal people have with this significant cultural cultural significant this with have people Aboriginal for swamp wallabies resting from the heat. Rocky sections of of sections Rocky heat. the from resting wallabies swamp for
of Carnarvon Creek as you stroll along its shady banks on short short on banks shady its along stroll you as Creek Carnarvon of Take an unforgettable journey deep into a a into deep journey unforgettable an Take walking changes to an off-track adventure. Here you can look look can you Here adventure. off-track an to changes walking We acknowledge the long and ongoing connection connection ongoing and long the acknowledge We
Delight in the dazzling colours reflected in the sparkling waters waters sparkling the in reflected colours dazzling the in Delight
Wander along Mickey Creek and into narrow side-gorges where where side-gorges narrow into and Creek Mickey along Wander
Carnarvon Gorge Carnarvon
Take your time exploring deep into Carnarvon Gorge on foot. foot. on Gorge Carnarvon into deep exploring time your Take 3km return from Mickey Creek car park car Creek Mickey from return 3km
Mickey Creek Gorge Creek Mickey Venture on foot on Venture WELCOME TO WELCOME
Discovery guide
Connect with E Amphitheatre Remote hiking Explore respectfully Queensland National Parks Carnarvon 8.6km return Pack your hiking gear and take on the remote sections of the Unfortunately, some cultural sites within national parks have queenslandnationalparks.com.au/carnarvon gorge Discover a secret oasis. Hidden inside the gorge walls is a 60m Carnarvon Great Walk linking the Carnarvon Gorge and Mount been damaged through deliberate or natural means, with deep chamber gouged from the rock by running water. This is Moffatt sections of Carnarvon National Park. You’ll need 6–7 some rock art ruined or even completely destroyed. Help us Gorge book at qld.gov.au/camping a place for quiet contemplation—the towering stone walls and days, good preparation and high-level bushwalking experience work with the local Aboriginal people to protect this precious check npsr.qld.gov.au/park-alerts for park access, natural skylight create an awe-inspiring atmosphere within. to complete this amazing journey through spectacular and heritage. When visiting rock art sites please remember the art Carnarvon closures and conditions remote sandstone country. Organise your camping permit at is very fragile and can be permanently damaged if touched— Wards Canyon National Park qld.gov.au/camping and purchase a map before you head out. even by accident. Enjoy a close look, but please remain on facebook.com/qldnationalparks 9.2km return Complete a bushwalking advice form and leave a copy with boardwalks where provided. @QldParks; #QLDParks Photo: © Robert Ashdown Be enticed into cool and inviting Wards Canyon on a hot day. someone responsible before you depart. Climb the short, steep track winding through spotted gums, For help with planning your holiday, visit queensland.com Longer walks past a small waterfall and into a beautiful side-gorge, sheltering Pack the essentials the world’s largest fern, the king fern Angiopteris evecta. These Guided adventures impressive green ‘dinosaurs’ have strong links with the ancient • Plenty of drinking water—walking up the exposed gorge can The main gorge walking track Treat yourself and enhance your Carnarvon Gorge adventure. flora of Gondwanan origin. be hot and thirsty work. d To Emerald Criss-cross Carnarvon Creek as it winds 9.7km to the tranquil l Roa enta waters of Big Bend. Explore side-tracks leading to narrow, Guided tours are offered by commercial operators—just search • First-aid kit—you never know when you might need it. lopm Dawson eve Art Gallery on the Internet for Carnarvon Gorge guided tours. • Sunscreen, hat, appropriate clothing and good n D Highway hidden gorges and timeless rock art sites. This track is mostly so d 10.8km return aw a walking shoes. To Tambo D o flat, although you must step from rock to rock across the creek R Nurture your spirit gazing at over 2000 engravings, ochre stencils d and some side-tracks are steep. • Strong plastic bags or containers to remove your rubbish. Cungelella n Rolleston a Mt l To and free-hand paintings adorning the 62m long sandstone walls of Road k Other top spots to visit No bins are provided. c
Playfair u Biloela At Big Bend the graded track system ends and the remote C this significant Aboriginal site. The Art Gallery contains some of B • Satellite phone, Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), topographic Road a r If you enjoy Carnarvon Gorge, why not visit some other Ka Ka n hiking trail of the Carnarvon Great Walk begins. the best examples of stencil art in Australia. Salvator
Cl em • Camera for recording the wonderful memories of your Mount D W a 6.4km return er e t 18.2km return a iv i r R s r o Moffatt v e g Dip your toes into the spring-fed waters of Nogoa River, e C unforgettable visit to this awesome park. l k Discover what lies above the cliff line. Scale the steep slopes Carnarvon o This massive wind-eroded overhang sheltered Aboriginal people
p winding its way through a broad, picturesque valley beneath k Gorge e m
r e and be rewarded with views out towards distant ranges at for thousands of years. Admire the panorama of rock imagery k e ee e r craggy sandstone outcrops at Salvator Rosa. Drive 168km r v n i C C t R y a Boolimba Bluff, towering 200m above Carnarvon Creek. Walk ulla adorning its walls—reflecting the rich cultural life of those who l from Springsure or 135km from Tambo via Mount Playfair Road. h d t a an o n R a g n o through spotted gum woodland, rainforest scrub and stands of a S gathered here. o r 4WD is required. H a a Emergency! d M budgeroo in the early morning rays to best enjoy the gorge’s most diverse and only lookout track. Boowinda Gorge Relax at the peaceful camping spot near Bunbuncundoo Springs There is no mobile phone reception at Carnarvon Womblebank 18.4km return in Ka Ka Mundi where more than 30km of remote sandstone Scale Gorge. A pay phone is provided near the Carnarvon Cherish 0 30 60km Moss Garden escarpments and plateaus dominate the skyline. Drive 130km Injune Rock-hop into a sculpted side-gorge 100m upstream of Cathedral Gorge Visitor Centre. Call (Triple Zero) 000 on the To Roma south-west of Springsure. 4WD is recommended. 7km return Cave. The first kilometre of this boulder-strewn gorge is the most pay phone or your satellite mobile phone. M a timelessly n Beneath tree ferns straining for sunlight, a small waterfall n spectacular with its sculpted walls of moss covered sandstone. L a Venture by 4WD to explore Mount Moffatt where sandstone a n n d d i lla tumbles over a rock ledge into an icy pool, a perfect place to s monoliths tower above a carpet of open woodland. Basalt- b C r re o e k Big Bend—end of main walking track u seek refuge from the heat. Here water dripping constantly from crested plateaus form a backdrop to this subtle but spectacular g h 19.4km return Front cover photo: Robert Ashdown © Queensland Government the sandstone sustains a lush, green carpet of mosses, ferns landscape at the headwaters of the Maranoa River. Drive 220km Back cover photo: © Robert Ashdown and liverworts. Visit a natural pool nestled beneath looming sandstone walls in north of Mitchell. Carnarvon Creek. Rest here in the shade of large spotted gums Access roads to all sections of Carnarvon National Park have ©State of Queensland 2016. Boolimba Bluff is the perfect spot to capture a great photo of and watch catfish and turtles swim in the calm waters of the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, unsealed sections which are slippery when wet and can become the rising sun splashing colour along the gorge’s white cliffs. upper reaches of Carnarvon Creek. A composting toilet and picnic Department of National Parks, Sport and Racing. impassable after heavy rain. Take care to avoid stock on BP2173 June 2016 Ranger Tony table are provided. You can camp here all year round. unfenced roads and leave gates as you find them.
Printed on eco-friendly paper to save energy and resources. © Qld Govt Robert Photo: Ashdown
Gorge Visitor Centre. Centre. Visitor Gorge facilities with powered sites and communal kitchens. kitchens. communal and sites powered with facilities Photo: © Michael O’Connor
the track? Satisfy your curiosity by exploring the Carnarvon Carnarvon the exploring by curiosity your Satisfy track? the Both resorts have cabins and Takarakka also offers camping camping offers also Takarakka and cabins have resorts Both
What was that bird you saw or the little orchid you spied beside beside spied you orchid little the or saw you bird that was What October. 31 to March 1 from open is centre, visitor the from
Visitor Centre. The Carnarvon Gorge Wilderness Lodge, 3km 3km Lodge, Wilderness Gorge Carnarvon The Centre. Visitor
fairy-wrens snapping up insects or a rummaging echidna. rummaging a or insects up snapping fairy-wrens
Takarakka Bush Resort, a 4km drive from the Carnarvon Gorge Gorge Carnarvon the from drive 4km a Resort, Bush Takarakka
see whiptail wallabies grazing, apostle birds squabbling, busy busy squabbling, birds apostle grazing, wallabies whiptail see
At any time of year you can stay just outside the park at at park the outside just stay can you year of time any At
Enjoy a picnic or cook up a storm on a gas barbecue. You might might You barbecue. gas a on storm a up cook or picnic a Enjoy
qld.gov.au/camping . .
of cool shady spots where you can rest and refresh. refresh. and rest can you where spots shady cool of
at advance in well site camp your Book experience. camping
The lush and inviting Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Area has plenty plenty has Area Visitor Gorge Carnarvon inviting and lush The
school holidays or hike your gear into Big Bend for a bush bush a for Bend Big into gear your hike or holidays school
hot day on the road or after exploring the gorge’s many sites. sites. many gorge’s the exploring after or road the on day hot
camping area during the Easter, winter and spring Queensland Queensland spring and winter Easter, the during area camping
amid grazing kangaroos and chattering birds after your long long your after birds chattering and kangaroos grazing amid
Set up your home away from home in the leafy Carnarvon Gorge Gorge Carnarvon leafy the in home from away home your up Set
Rejuvenate in a green oasis beneath tall eucalypts and palms palms and eucalypts tall beneath oasis green a in Rejuvenate
exploring Carnarvon Gorge and discover its many secrets. many its discover and Gorge Carnarvon exploring
Rest and relax and Rest © Qld Govt; © John Augusteyn John © Govt; Qld ©
place that will entice, inspire and recharge you. Spend a few days days few a Spend you. recharge and inspire entice, will that place
Ashdown Robert right): to (left Photos
relax over a picnic or explore along the creek—this is a special special a is creek—this the along explore or picnic a over relax
Mickey Creek Gorge walk (below) walk Gorge Creek Mickey
Enjoy Carnarvon Gorge your way. Tackle an adventurous walk, walk, adventurous an Tackle way. your Gorge Carnarvon Enjoy Exploring Carnarvon Creek (left); (left); Creek Carnarvon Exploring
Ashdown © Qld Govt (left) (left) Govt Qld © Ashdown
Stay a while a Stay Qld Govt (above left); Robert Robert left); (above Govt Qld
Govt (top); Robert Ashdown © © Ashdown Robert (top); Govt
Photos: Robert Ashdown © Qld Qld © Ashdown Robert Photos:
where you can go swimming. swimming. go can you where Gorge Visitor Area (left) Area Visitor Gorge
out, check road conditions at 131940.qld.gov.au or phone 13 19 40. 19 13 phone or 131940.qld.gov.au at conditions road check out, left); Picnicking at Carnarvon Carnarvon at Picnicking left);
floods, the Rock Pool is the only place in Carnarvon Gorge Gorge Carnarvon in place only the is Pool Rock the floods,
yellow-bellied glider (above (above glider yellow-bellied visit at dusk or dawn. or dusk at visit
rain, cutting access roads. If it’s flooded, forget it! Before you set set you Before it! forget flooded, it’s If roads. access cutting rain,
the bed of Carnarvon Creek by the turbulent water of past past of water turbulent the by Creek Carnarvon of bed the Gorge Camping Area (top); (top); Area Camping Gorge
might spy an elusive platypus. For the best wildlife watching watching wildlife best the For platypus. elusive an spy might within the national park and Carnarvon Creek rises rapidly after after rapidly rises Creek Carnarvon and park national the within Camping in Carnarvon Carnarvon in Camping
and turtles, or take a refreshing dip on a hot day. Carved from from Carved day. hot a on dip refreshing a take or turtles, and
Look for turtles basking in the sun, and if you’re quiet, you you quiet, you’re if and sun, the in basking turtles for Look conditions along the way. There are unsealed sections of road road of sections unsealed are There way. the along conditions
Linger in the shade of fig and casuarina trees watching for fish fish for watching trees casuarina and fig of shade the in Linger
Photographer Duncan McDermant, 1978 McDermant, Duncan Photographer Spot lots of wildlife from the shady banks of Carnarvon Creek. Creek. Carnarvon of banks shady the from wildlife of lots Spot
Carnarvon Gorge is remote so expect some challenging challenging some expect so remote is Gorge Carnarvon
Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Area Visitor Gorge Carnarvon
scents of the bush. the of scents
1.5km return from the Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Area Visitor Gorge Carnarvon the from return 1.5km
Ranger Mark Ranger
south-east of Emerald. Emerald. of south-east 600m return from Rock Pool car park or 3.6km from the the from 3.6km or park car Pool Rock from return 600m Photo: Ashdown Robert © Qld Govt
tranquillity enter the spirit. Breathe deeply and enjoy the the enjoy and deeply Breathe spirit. the enter tranquillity
Nature Trail Nature
rangers, appreciate every day. every appreciate rangers, Rock Pool Rock 241km and Roma of north 246km Rockhampton, of west
Ranger Russell Ranger
Hasten slowly in this wild place. Let the feeling of peace and and peace of feeling the Let place. wild this in slowly Hasten
is a privilege that I, and my fellow fellow my and I, that privilege a is south- 450km Brisbane, of north-west 740km approximately Short walks Short to feed. feed. to
suitable for wheelchair users who have someone to assist them. assist to someone have who users wheelchair for suitable
most spectacular national parks parks national spectacular most cliffs rising above the distant tree-line. Carnarvon Gorge is is Gorge Carnarvon tree-line. distant the above rising cliffs
out head they as gliders bellied
natural treasures of this very special park. park. special very this of treasures natural
entry point to the gorge for thousands of years. This track is is track This years. of thousands for gorge the to point entry
conserve one of Queensland’s Queensland’s of one conserve Feel the excitement build as you drive across plains towards towards plains across drive you as build excitement the Feel Listen for the calls of yellow- of calls the for Listen
your spirit discovering the wealth of cultural and and cultural of wealth the discovering spirit your
within a gap in Clematis Ridge, used by Aboriginal people as an an as people Aboriginal by used Ridge, Clematis in gap a within
opportunity to protect and and protect to opportunity
and avoid sudden movements. movements. sudden avoid and
the source of many great rivers. great many of source the
Getting to the Gorge the to Getting
water and time. Awaken your senses and nurture nurture and senses your Awaken time. and water
example of stencilled Aboriginal rock art. Baloon Cave is located located is Cave Baloon art. rock Aboriginal stencilled of example
its challenges. However, the the However, challenges. its
the gorge at night. Be very quiet quiet very Be night. at gorge the
Great Dividing Range—the aptly-named ‘Roof of Queensland’, Queensland’, of ‘Roof aptly-named Range—the Dividing Great
side-gorges, their subtly-coloured walls carved by by carved walls subtly-coloured their side-gorges, Stroll among Carnarvon fan palms and ancient cycads to a fine fine a to cycads ancient and palms fan Carnarvon among Stroll
national park is not without without not is park national
Take a torch and go spotlighting in in spotlighting go and torch a Take
up towering slopes and out onto the rugged plateaus of the the of plateaus rugged the onto out and slopes towering up
1km return from Baloon Cave car park car Cave Baloon from return 1km or amazing animal. Venture deep into cool, lush lush cool, into deep Venture animal. amazing or
Living and working on a remote remote a on working and Living
and trek some or all of the 87km Carnarvon Great Walk. Wind Wind Walk. Great Carnarvon 87km the of all or some trek and
Baloon Cave Cave Baloon Carnarvon Creek reveal a splendid scene, new plant plant new scene, splendid a reveal Creek Carnarvon
green gorge below a lookout or answer the call of adventure adventure of call the answer or lookout a below gorge green
with care and respect. and care with
oasis. Let every twist and turn of boulder-strewn boulder-strewn of turn and twist every Let oasis.
longer walks. Soak up the magnificent views over the luscious luscious the over views magnificent the up Soak walks. longer The formed track ends 1.5km from the Mickey Creek car park. car Creek Mickey the from 1.5km ends track formed The
heritage place and ask that you explore the country country the explore you that ask and place heritage white sandstone cliffs envelop a creek-side creek-side a envelop cliffs sandstone white
sandstone walls and deep inside cool narrow side gorges on on gorges side narrow cool inside deep and walls sandstone the track are slippery and caution is needed on creek crossings. crossings. creek on needed is caution and slippery are track the
walks or discover hidden wonders tucked beneath towering towering beneath tucked wonders hidden discover or walks spectacular steep-sided gorge, where towering towering where gorge, steep-sided spectacular Aboriginal people have with this significant cultural cultural significant this with have people Aboriginal for swamp wallabies resting from the heat. Rocky sections of of sections Rocky heat. the from resting wallabies swamp for
of Carnarvon Creek as you stroll along its shady banks on short short on banks shady its along stroll you as Creek Carnarvon of Take an unforgettable journey deep into a a into deep journey unforgettable an Take walking changes to an off-track adventure. Here you can look look can you Here adventure. off-track an to changes walking We acknowledge the long and ongoing connection connection ongoing and long the acknowledge We
Delight in the dazzling colours reflected in the sparkling waters waters sparkling the in reflected colours dazzling the in Delight
Wander along Mickey Creek and into narrow side-gorges where where side-gorges narrow into and Creek Mickey along Wander
Carnarvon Gorge Carnarvon
Take your time exploring deep into Carnarvon Gorge on foot. foot. on Gorge Carnarvon into deep exploring time your Take 3km return from Mickey Creek car park car Creek Mickey from return 3km
Mickey Creek Gorge Creek Mickey Venture on foot on Venture WELCOME TO WELCOME
Discovery guide
Connect with E Amphitheatre Remote hiking Explore respectfully Queensland National Parks Carnarvon 8.6km return Pack your hiking gear and take on the remote sections of the Unfortunately, some cultural sites within national parks have queenslandnationalparks.com.au/carnarvon gorge Discover a secret oasis. Hidden inside the gorge walls is a 60m Carnarvon Great Walk linking the Carnarvon Gorge and Mount been damaged through deliberate or natural means, with deep chamber gouged from the rock by running water. This is Moffatt sections of Carnarvon National Park. You’ll need 6–7 some rock art ruined or even completely destroyed. Help us Gorge book at qld.gov.au/camping a place for quiet contemplation—the towering stone walls and days, good preparation and high-level bushwalking experience work with the local Aboriginal people to protect this precious check npsr.qld.gov.au/park-alerts for park access, natural skylight create an awe-inspiring atmosphere within. to complete this amazing journey through spectacular and heritage. When visiting rock art sites please remember the art Carnarvon closures and conditions remote sandstone country. Organise your camping permit at is very fragile and can be permanently damaged if touched— Wards Canyon National Park qld.gov.au/camping and purchase a map before you head out. even by accident. Enjoy a close look, but please remain on facebook.com/qldnationalparks 9.2km return Complete a bushwalking advice form and leave a copy with boardwalks where provided. @QldParks; #QLDParks Photo: © Robert Ashdown Be enticed into cool and inviting Wards Canyon on a hot day. someone responsible before you depart. Climb the short, steep track winding through spotted gums, For help with planning your holiday, visit queensland.com Longer walks past a small waterfall and into a beautiful side-gorge, sheltering Pack the essentials the world’s largest fern, the king fern Angiopteris evecta. These Guided adventures impressive green ‘dinosaurs’ have strong links with the ancient • Plenty of drinking water—walking up the exposed gorge can The main gorge walking track Treat yourself and enhance your Carnarvon Gorge adventure. flora of Gondwanan origin. be hot and thirsty work. d To Emerald Criss-cross Carnarvon Creek as it winds 9.7km to the tranquil l Roa enta waters of Big Bend. Explore side-tracks leading to narrow, Guided tours are offered by commercial operators—just search • First-aid kit—you never know when you might need it. lopm Dawson eve Art Gallery on the Internet for Carnarvon Gorge guided tours. • Sunscreen, hat, appropriate clothing and good n D Highway hidden gorges and timeless rock art sites. This track is mostly so d 10.8km return aw a walking shoes. To Tambo D o flat, although you must step from rock to rock across the creek R Nurture your spirit gazing at over 2000 engravings, ochre stencils d and some side-tracks are steep. • Strong plastic bags or containers to remove your rubbish. Cungelella n Rolleston a Mt l To and free-hand paintings adorning the 62m long sandstone walls of Road k Other top spots to visit No bins are provided. c
Playfair u Biloela At Big Bend the graded track system ends and the remote C this significant Aboriginal site. The Art Gallery contains some of B • Satellite phone, Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), topographic Road a r If you enjoy Carnarvon Gorge, why not visit some other Ka Ka n hiking trail of the Carnarvon Great Walk begins. the best examples of stencil art in Australia. Salvator
Cl em • Camera for recording the wonderful memories of your Mount D W a 6.4km return er e t 18.2km return a iv i r R s r o Moffatt v e g Dip your toes into the spring-fed waters of Nogoa River, e C unforgettable visit to this awesome park. l k Discover what lies above the cliff line. Scale the steep slopes Carnarvon o This massive wind-eroded overhang sheltered Aboriginal people
p winding its way through a broad, picturesque valley beneath
k Gorge e m
r e and be rewarded with views out towards distant ranges at for thousands of years. Admire the panorama of rock imagery k e ee e r craggy sandstone outcrops at Salvator Rosa. Drive 168km r v n i C C t R y a Boolimba Bluff, towering 200m above Carnarvon Creek. Walk ulla adorning its walls—reflecting the rich cultural life of those who l from Springsure or 135km from Tambo via Mount Playfair Road. h d
t a an o n R a g n o through spotted gum woodland, rainforest scrub and stands of
a S gathered here. o r 4WD is required. H a a Emergency! d M budgeroo in the early morning rays to best enjoy the gorge’s most diverse and only lookout track. Boowinda Gorge Relax at the peaceful camping spot near Bunbuncundoo Springs There is no mobile phone reception at Carnarvon Womblebank 18.4km return in Ka Ka Mundi where more than 30km of remote sandstone Scale Gorge. A pay phone is provided near the Carnarvon Cherish 0 30 60km Moss Garden escarpments and plateaus dominate the skyline. Drive 130km Injune Rock-hop into a sculpted side-gorge 100m upstream of Cathedral Gorge Visitor Centre. Call (Triple Zero) 000 on the To Roma south-west of Springsure. 4WD is recommended. 7km return Cave. The first kilometre of this boulder-strewn gorge is the most pay phone or your satellite mobile phone. M a timelessly n Beneath tree ferns straining for sunlight, a small waterfall n spectacular with its sculpted walls of moss covered sandstone. L a Venture by 4WD to explore Mount Moffatt where sandstone a n n d d i lla tumbles over a rock ledge into an icy pool, a perfect place to s monoliths tower above a carpet of open woodland. Basalt- b C r re o e k Big Bend—end of main walking track u seek refuge from the heat. Here water dripping constantly from crested plateaus form a backdrop to this subtle but spectacular g h 19.4km return Front cover photo: Robert Ashdown © Queensland Government the sandstone sustains a lush, green carpet of mosses, ferns landscape at the headwaters of the Maranoa River. Drive 220km Back cover photo: © Robert Ashdown and liverworts. Visit a natural pool nestled beneath looming sandstone walls in north of Mitchell. Carnarvon Creek. Rest here in the shade of large spotted gums Access roads to all sections of Carnarvon National Park have ©State of Queensland 2016. Boolimba Bluff is the perfect spot to capture a great photo of and watch catfish and turtles swim in the calm waters of the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, unsealed sections which are slippery when wet and can become the rising sun splashing colour along the gorge’s white cliffs. upper reaches of Carnarvon Creek. A composting toilet and picnic Department of National Parks, Sport and Racing. impassable after heavy rain. Take care to avoid stock on BP2173 June 2016 Ranger Tony table are provided. You can camp here all year round. unfenced roads and leave gates as you find them.
Printed on eco-friendly paper to save energy and resources. © Qld Govt Robert Photo: Ashdown
Gorge Visitor Centre. Centre. Visitor Gorge facilities with powered sites and communal kitchens. kitchens. communal and sites powered with facilities Photo: © Michael O’Connor
the track? Satisfy your curiosity by exploring the Carnarvon Carnarvon the exploring by curiosity your Satisfy track? the Both resorts have cabins and Takarakka also offers camping camping offers also Takarakka and cabins have resorts Both
What was that bird you saw or the little orchid you spied beside beside spied you orchid little the or saw you bird that was What October. 31 to March 1 from open is centre, visitor the from
Visitor Centre. The Carnarvon Gorge Wilderness Lodge, 3km 3km Lodge, Wilderness Gorge Carnarvon The Centre. Visitor
fairy-wrens snapping up insects or a rummaging echidna. rummaging a or insects up snapping fairy-wrens
Takarakka Bush Resort, a 4km drive from the Carnarvon Gorge Gorge Carnarvon the from drive 4km a Resort, Bush Takarakka
see whiptail wallabies grazing, apostle birds squabbling, busy busy squabbling, birds apostle grazing, wallabies whiptail see
At any time of year you can stay just outside the park at at park the outside just stay can you year of time any At
Enjoy a picnic or cook up a storm on a gas barbecue. You might might You barbecue. gas a on storm a up cook or picnic a Enjoy
qld.gov.au/camping . .
of cool shady spots where you can rest and refresh. refresh. and rest can you where spots shady cool of
at advance in well site camp your Book experience. camping
The lush and inviting Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Area has plenty plenty has Area Visitor Gorge Carnarvon inviting and lush The
school holidays or hike your gear into Big Bend for a bush bush a for Bend Big into gear your hike or holidays school
hot day on the road or after exploring the gorge’s many sites. sites. many gorge’s the exploring after or road the on day hot
camping area during the Easter, winter and spring Queensland Queensland spring and winter Easter, the during area camping
amid grazing kangaroos and chattering birds after your long long your after birds chattering and kangaroos grazing amid
Set up your home away from home in the leafy Carnarvon Gorge Gorge Carnarvon leafy the in home from away home your up Set
Rejuvenate in a green oasis beneath tall eucalypts and palms palms and eucalypts tall beneath oasis green a in Rejuvenate
exploring Carnarvon Gorge and discover its many secrets. many its discover and Gorge Carnarvon exploring
Rest and relax and Rest © Qld Govt; © John Augusteyn John © Govt; Qld ©
place that will entice, inspire and recharge you. Spend a few days days few a Spend you. recharge and inspire entice, will that place
Ashdown Robert right): to (left Photos
relax over a picnic or explore along the creek—this is a special special a is creek—this the along explore or picnic a over relax
Mickey Creek Gorge walk (below) walk Gorge Creek Mickey
Enjoy Carnarvon Gorge your way. Tackle an adventurous walk, walk, adventurous an Tackle way. your Gorge Carnarvon Enjoy Exploring Carnarvon Creek (left); (left); Creek Carnarvon Exploring
Ashdown © Qld Govt (left) (left) Govt Qld © Ashdown
Stay a while a Stay Qld Govt (above left); Robert Robert left); (above Govt Qld
Govt (top); Robert Ashdown © © Ashdown Robert (top); Govt
Photos: Robert Ashdown © Qld Qld © Ashdown Robert Photos:
where you can go swimming. swimming. go can you where Gorge Visitor Area (left) Area Visitor Gorge
out, check road conditions at 131940.qld.gov.au or phone 13 19 40. 19 13 phone or 131940.qld.gov.au at conditions road check out, left); Picnicking at Carnarvon Carnarvon at Picnicking left);
floods, the Rock Pool is the only place in Carnarvon Gorge Gorge Carnarvon in place only the is Pool Rock the floods,
yellow-bellied glider (above (above glider yellow-bellied visit at dusk or dawn. or dusk at visit
rain, cutting access roads. If it’s flooded, forget it! Before you set set you Before it! forget flooded, it’s If roads. access cutting rain,
the bed of Carnarvon Creek by the turbulent water of past past of water turbulent the by Creek Carnarvon of bed the Gorge Camping Area (top); (top); Area Camping Gorge
might spy an elusive platypus. For the best wildlife watching watching wildlife best the For platypus. elusive an spy might within the national park and Carnarvon Creek rises rapidly after after rapidly rises Creek Carnarvon and park national the within Camping in Carnarvon Carnarvon in Camping
and turtles, or take a refreshing dip on a hot day. Carved from from Carved day. hot a on dip refreshing a take or turtles, and
Look for turtles basking in the sun, and if you’re quiet, you you quiet, you’re if and sun, the in basking turtles for Look conditions along the way. There are unsealed sections of road road of sections unsealed are There way. the along conditions
Linger in the shade of fig and casuarina trees watching for fish fish for watching trees casuarina and fig of shade the in Linger
Photographer Duncan McDermant, 1978 McDermant, Duncan Photographer Spot lots of wildlife from the shady banks of Carnarvon Creek. Creek. Carnarvon of banks shady the from wildlife of lots Spot
Carnarvon Gorge is remote so expect some challenging challenging some expect so remote is Gorge Carnarvon
Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Area Visitor Gorge Carnarvon
scents of the bush. the of scents
1.5km return from the Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Area Visitor Gorge Carnarvon the from return 1.5km
Ranger Mark Ranger
south-east of Emerald. Emerald. of south-east 600m return from Rock Pool car park or 3.6km from the the from 3.6km or park car Pool Rock from return 600m Photo: Ashdown Robert © Qld Govt
tranquillity enter the spirit. Breathe deeply and enjoy the the enjoy and deeply Breathe spirit. the enter tranquillity
Nature Trail Nature
rangers, appreciate every day. every appreciate rangers, Rock Pool Rock 241km and Roma of north 246km Rockhampton, of west
Ranger Russell Ranger
Hasten slowly in this wild place. Let the feeling of peace and and peace of feeling the Let place. wild this in slowly Hasten
is a privilege that I, and my fellow fellow my and I, that privilege a is south- 450km Brisbane, of north-west 740km approximately Short walks Short to feed. feed. to
suitable for wheelchair users who have someone to assist them. assist to someone have who users wheelchair for suitable
most spectacular national parks parks national spectacular most cliffs rising above the distant tree-line. Carnarvon Gorge is is Gorge Carnarvon tree-line. distant the above rising cliffs
out head they as gliders bellied
natural treasures of this very special park. park. special very this of treasures natural
entry point to the gorge for thousands of years. This track is is track This years. of thousands for gorge the to point entry
conserve one of Queensland’s Queensland’s of one conserve Feel the excitement build as you drive across plains towards towards plains across drive you as build excitement the Feel Listen for the calls of yellow- of calls the for Listen
your spirit discovering the wealth of cultural and and cultural of wealth the discovering spirit your
within a gap in Clematis Ridge, used by Aboriginal people as an an as people Aboriginal by used Ridge, Clematis in gap a within
opportunity to protect and and protect to opportunity
and avoid sudden movements. movements. sudden avoid and
the source of many great rivers. great many of source the
Getting to the Gorge the to Getting
water and time. Awaken your senses and nurture nurture and senses your Awaken time. and water
example of stencilled Aboriginal rock art. Baloon Cave is located located is Cave Baloon art. rock Aboriginal stencilled of example
its challenges. However, the the However, challenges. its
the gorge at night. Be very quiet quiet very Be night. at gorge the
Great Dividing Range—the aptly-named ‘Roof of Queensland’, Queensland’, of ‘Roof aptly-named Range—the Dividing Great
side-gorges, their subtly-coloured walls carved by by carved walls subtly-coloured their side-gorges, Stroll among Carnarvon fan palms and ancient cycads to a fine fine a to cycads ancient and palms fan Carnarvon among Stroll
national park is not without without not is park national
Take a torch and go spotlighting in in spotlighting go and torch a Take
up towering slopes and out onto the rugged plateaus of the the of plateaus rugged the onto out and slopes towering up
1km return from Baloon Cave car park car Cave Baloon from return 1km or amazing animal. Venture deep into cool, lush lush cool, into deep Venture animal. amazing or
Living and working on a remote remote a on working and Living
and trek some or all of the 87km Carnarvon Great Walk. Wind Wind Walk. Great Carnarvon 87km the of all or some trek and
Baloon Cave Cave Baloon Carnarvon Creek reveal a splendid scene, new plant plant new scene, splendid a reveal Creek Carnarvon
green gorge below a lookout or answer the call of adventure adventure of call the answer or lookout a below gorge green
with care and respect. and care with
oasis. Let every twist and turn of boulder-strewn boulder-strewn of turn and twist every Let oasis.
longer walks. Soak up the magnificent views over the luscious luscious the over views magnificent the up Soak walks. longer The formed track ends 1.5km from the Mickey Creek car park. car Creek Mickey the from 1.5km ends track formed The
heritage place and ask that you explore the country country the explore you that ask and place heritage white sandstone cliffs envelop a creek-side creek-side a envelop cliffs sandstone white
sandstone walls and deep inside cool narrow side gorges on on gorges side narrow cool inside deep and walls sandstone the track are slippery and caution is needed on creek crossings. crossings. creek on needed is caution and slippery are track the
walks or discover hidden wonders tucked beneath towering towering beneath tucked wonders hidden discover or walks spectacular steep-sided gorge, where towering towering where gorge, steep-sided spectacular Aboriginal people have with this significant cultural cultural significant this with have people Aboriginal for swamp wallabies resting from the heat. Rocky sections of of sections Rocky heat. the from resting wallabies swamp for
of Carnarvon Creek as you stroll along its shady banks on short short on banks shady its along stroll you as Creek Carnarvon of Take an unforgettable journey deep into a a into deep journey unforgettable an Take walking changes to an off-track adventure. Here you can look look can you Here adventure. off-track an to changes walking We acknowledge the long and ongoing connection connection ongoing and long the acknowledge We
Delight in the dazzling colours reflected in the sparkling waters waters sparkling the in reflected colours dazzling the in Delight
Wander along Mickey Creek and into narrow side-gorges where where side-gorges narrow into and Creek Mickey along Wander
Carnarvon Gorge Carnarvon
Take your time exploring deep into Carnarvon Gorge on foot. foot. on Gorge Carnarvon into deep exploring time your Take 3km return from Mickey Creek car park car Creek Mickey from return 3km
Mickey Creek Gorge Creek Mickey Venture on foot on Venture WELCOME TO WELCOME
Discovery guide
Connect with E Amphitheatre Remote hiking Explore respectfully Queensland National Parks Carnarvon 8.6km return Pack your hiking gear and take on the remote sections of the Unfortunately, some cultural sites within national parks have queenslandnationalparks.com.au/carnarvon gorge Discover a secret oasis. Hidden inside the gorge walls is a 60m Carnarvon Great Walk linking the Carnarvon Gorge and Mount been damaged through deliberate or natural means, with deep chamber gouged from the rock by running water. This is Moffatt sections of Carnarvon National Park. You’ll need 6–7 some rock art ruined or even completely destroyed. Help us Gorge book at qld.gov.au/camping a place for quiet contemplation—the towering stone walls and days, good preparation and high-level bushwalking experience work with the local Aboriginal people to protect this precious check npsr.qld.gov.au/park-alerts for park access, natural skylight create an awe-inspiring atmosphere within. to complete this amazing journey through spectacular and heritage. When visiting rock art sites please remember the art Carnarvon closures and conditions remote sandstone country. Organise your camping permit at is very fragile and can be permanently damaged if touched— Wards Canyon National Park qld.gov.au/camping and purchase a map before you head out. even by accident. Enjoy a close look, but please remain on facebook.com/qldnationalparks 9.2km return Complete a bushwalking advice form and leave a copy with boardwalks where provided. @QldParks; #QLDParks Photo: © Robert Ashdown Be enticed into cool and inviting Wards Canyon on a hot day. someone responsible before you depart. Climb the short, steep track winding through spotted gums, For help with planning your holiday, visit queensland.com Longer walks past a small waterfall and into a beautiful side-gorge, sheltering Pack the essentials the world’s largest fern, the king fern Angiopteris evecta. These Guided adventures impressive green ‘dinosaurs’ have strong links with the ancient • Plenty of drinking water—walking up the exposed gorge can The main gorge walking track Treat yourself and enhance your Carnarvon Gorge adventure. flora of Gondwanan origin. be hot and thirsty work. d To Emerald Criss-cross Carnarvon Creek as it winds 9.7km to the tranquil l Roa enta waters of Big Bend. Explore side-tracks leading to narrow, Guided tours are offered by commercial operators—just search • First-aid kit—you never know when you might need it. lopm Dawson eve Art Gallery on the Internet for Carnarvon Gorge guided tours. • Sunscreen, hat, appropriate clothing and good n D Highway hidden gorges and timeless rock art sites. This track is mostly so d 10.8km return aw a walking shoes. To Tambo D o flat, although you must step from rock to rock across the creek R Nurture your spirit gazing at over 2000 engravings, ochre stencils d and some side-tracks are steep. • Strong plastic bags or containers to remove your rubbish. Cungelella n Rolleston a Mt l To and free-hand paintings adorning the 62m long sandstone walls of Road k Other top spots to visit No bins are provided. c
Playfair u Biloela At Big Bend the graded track system ends and the remote C this significant Aboriginal site. The Art Gallery contains some of B • Satellite phone, Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), topographic Road a r If you enjoy Carnarvon Gorge, why not visit some other Ka Ka n hiking trail of the Carnarvon Great Walk begins. the best examples of stencil art in Australia. Salvator
Cl em • Camera for recording the wonderful memories of your Mount D W a 6.4km return er e t 18.2km return a iv i r R s r o Moffatt v e g Dip your toes into the spring-fed waters of Nogoa River, e C unforgettable visit to this awesome park. l k Discover what lies above the cliff line. Scale the steep slopes Carnarvon o This massive wind-eroded overhang sheltered Aboriginal people
p winding its way through a broad, picturesque valley beneath
k Gorge e m
r e and be rewarded with views out towards distant ranges at for thousands of years. Admire the panorama of rock imagery k e ee e r craggy sandstone outcrops at Salvator Rosa. Drive 168km r v n i C C t R y a Boolimba Bluff, towering 200m above Carnarvon Creek. Walk ulla adorning its walls—reflecting the rich cultural life of those who l from Springsure or 135km from Tambo via Mount Playfair Road. h d
t a an o n R a g n o through spotted gum woodland, rainforest scrub and stands of
a S gathered here. o r 4WD is required. H a a Emergency! d M budgeroo in the early morning rays to best enjoy the gorge’s most diverse and only lookout track. Boowinda Gorge Relax at the peaceful camping spot near Bunbuncundoo Springs There is no mobile phone reception at Carnarvon Womblebank 18.4km return in Ka Ka Mundi where more than 30km of remote sandstone Scale Gorge. A pay phone is provided near the Carnarvon Cherish 0 30 60km Moss Garden escarpments and plateaus dominate the skyline. Drive 130km Injune Rock-hop into a sculpted side-gorge 100m upstream of Cathedral Gorge Visitor Centre. Call (Triple Zero) 000 on the To Roma south-west of Springsure. 4WD is recommended. 7km return Cave. The first kilometre of this boulder-strewn gorge is the most pay phone or your satellite mobile phone. M a timelessly n Beneath tree ferns straining for sunlight, a small waterfall n spectacular with its sculpted walls of moss covered sandstone. L a Venture by 4WD to explore Mount Moffatt where sandstone a n n d d i lla tumbles over a rock ledge into an icy pool, a perfect place to s monoliths tower above a carpet of open woodland. Basalt- b C r re o e k Big Bend—end of main walking track u seek refuge from the heat. Here water dripping constantly from crested plateaus form a backdrop to this subtle but spectacular g h 19.4km return Front cover photo: Robert Ashdown © Queensland Government the sandstone sustains a lush, green carpet of mosses, ferns landscape at the headwaters of the Maranoa River. Drive 220km Back cover photo: © Robert Ashdown and liverworts. Visit a natural pool nestled beneath looming sandstone walls in north of Mitchell. Carnarvon Creek. Rest here in the shade of large spotted gums Access roads to all sections of Carnarvon National Park have ©State of Queensland 2016. Boolimba Bluff is the perfect spot to capture a great photo of and watch catfish and turtles swim in the calm waters of the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, unsealed sections which are slippery when wet and can become the rising sun splashing colour along the gorge’s white cliffs. upper reaches of Carnarvon Creek. A composting toilet and picnic Department of National Parks, Sport and Racing. impassable after heavy rain. Take care to avoid stock on BP2173 June 2016 Ranger Tony table are provided. You can camp here all year round. unfenced roads and leave gates as you find them.
Printed on eco-friendly paper to save energy and resources. © Qld Govt Robert Photo: Ashdown
Gorge Visitor Centre. Centre. Visitor Gorge facilities with powered sites and communal kitchens. kitchens. communal and sites powered with facilities Photo: © Michael O’Connor
the track? Satisfy your curiosity by exploring the Carnarvon Carnarvon the exploring by curiosity your Satisfy track? the Both resorts have cabins and Takarakka also offers camping camping offers also Takarakka and cabins have resorts Both
What was that bird you saw or the little orchid you spied beside beside spied you orchid little the or saw you bird that was What October. 31 to March 1 from open is centre, visitor the from
Visitor Centre. The Carnarvon Gorge Wilderness Lodge, 3km 3km Lodge, Wilderness Gorge Carnarvon The Centre. Visitor fairy-wrens snapping up insects or a rummaging echidna. rummaging a or insects up snapping fairy-wrens
Takarakka Bush Resort, a 4km drive from the Carnarvon Gorge Gorge Carnarvon the from drive 4km a Resort, Bush Takarakka see whiptail wallabies grazing, apostle birds squabbling, busy busy squabbling, birds apostle grazing, wallabies whiptail see
At any time of year you can stay just outside the park at at park the outside just stay can you year of time any At
Enjoy a picnic or cook up a storm on a gas barbecue. You might might You barbecue. gas a on storm a up cook or picnic a Enjoy
qld.gov.au/camping . . of cool shady spots where you can rest and refresh. refresh. and rest can you where spots shady cool of
at advance in well site camp your Book experience. camping
The lush and inviting Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Area has plenty plenty has Area Visitor Gorge Carnarvon inviting and lush The
school holidays or hike your gear into Big Bend for a bush bush a for Bend Big into gear your hike or holidays school hot day on the road or after exploring the gorge’s many sites. sites. many gorge’s the exploring after or road the on day hot
camping area during the Easter, winter and spring Queensland Queensland spring and winter Easter, the during area camping amid grazing kangaroos and chattering birds after your long long your after birds chattering and kangaroos grazing amid
Set up your home away from home in the leafy Carnarvon Gorge Gorge Carnarvon leafy the in home from away home your up Set
Rejuvenate in a green oasis beneath tall eucalypts and palms palms and eucalypts tall beneath oasis green a in Rejuvenate
exploring Carnarvon Gorge and discover its many secrets. many its discover and Gorge Carnarvon exploring
Rest and relax and Rest © Qld Govt; © John Augusteyn John © Govt; Qld ©
place that will entice, inspire and recharge you. Spend a few days days few a Spend you. recharge and inspire entice, will that place
Ashdown Robert right): to (left Photos
relax over a picnic or explore along the creek—this is a special special a is creek—this the along explore or picnic a over relax
Mickey Creek Gorge walk (below) walk Gorge Creek Mickey
Enjoy Carnarvon Gorge your way. Tackle an adventurous walk, walk, adventurous an Tackle way. your Gorge Carnarvon Enjoy Exploring Carnarvon Creek (left); (left); Creek Carnarvon Exploring
Ashdown © Qld Govt (left) (left) Govt Qld © Ashdown
Stay a while a Stay Qld Govt (above left); Robert Robert left); (above Govt Qld
Govt (top); Robert Ashdown © © Ashdown Robert (top); Govt
Photos: Robert Ashdown © Qld Qld © Ashdown Robert Photos:
where you can go swimming. swimming. go can you where Gorge Visitor Area (left) Area Visitor Gorge
out, check road conditions at 131940.qld.gov.au or phone 13 19 40. 19 13 phone or 131940.qld.gov.au at conditions road check out, left); Picnicking at Carnarvon Carnarvon at Picnicking left);
floods, the Rock Pool is the only place in Carnarvon Gorge Gorge Carnarvon in place only the is Pool Rock the floods,
yellow-bellied glider (above (above glider yellow-bellied visit at dusk or dawn. or dusk at visit
rain, cutting access roads. If it’s flooded, forget it! Before you set set you Before it! forget flooded, it’s If roads. access cutting rain,
the bed of Carnarvon Creek by the turbulent water of past past of water turbulent the by Creek Carnarvon of bed the Gorge Camping Area (top); (top); Area Camping Gorge
might spy an elusive platypus. For the best wildlife watching watching wildlife best the For platypus. elusive an spy might within the national park and Carnarvon Creek rises rapidly after after rapidly rises Creek Carnarvon and park national the within Camping in Carnarvon Carnarvon in Camping
and turtles, or take a refreshing dip on a hot day. Carved from from Carved day. hot a on dip refreshing a take or turtles, and
Look for turtles basking in the sun, and if you’re quiet, you you quiet, you’re if and sun, the in basking turtles for Look conditions along the way. There are unsealed sections of road road of sections unsealed are There way. the along conditions
Linger in the shade of fig and casuarina trees watching for fish fish for watching trees casuarina and fig of shade the in Linger
Photographer Duncan McDermant, 1978 McDermant, Duncan Photographer Spot lots of wildlife from the shady banks of Carnarvon Creek. Creek. Carnarvon of banks shady the from wildlife of lots Spot
Carnarvon Gorge is remote so expect some challenging challenging some expect so remote is Gorge Carnarvon
Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Area Visitor Gorge Carnarvon
scents of the bush. the of scents
1.5km return from the Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Area Visitor Gorge Carnarvon the from return 1.5km
Ranger Mark Ranger
south-east of Emerald. Emerald. of south-east 600m return from Rock Pool car park or 3.6km from the the from 3.6km or park car Pool Rock from return 600m Photo: Ashdown Robert © Qld Govt
tranquillity enter the spirit. Breathe deeply and enjoy the the enjoy and deeply Breathe spirit. the enter tranquillity
Nature Trail Nature
rangers, appreciate every day. every appreciate rangers, Rock Pool Rock 241km and Roma of north 246km Rockhampton, of west
Ranger Russell Ranger
Hasten slowly in this wild place. Let the feeling of peace and and peace of feeling the Let place. wild this in slowly Hasten
is a privilege that I, and my fellow fellow my and I, that privilege a is south- 450km Brisbane, of north-west 740km approximately Short walks Short to feed. feed. to
suitable for wheelchair users who have someone to assist them. assist to someone have who users wheelchair for suitable
most spectacular national parks parks national spectacular most cliffs rising above the distant tree-line. Carnarvon Gorge is is Gorge Carnarvon tree-line. distant the above rising cliffs
out head they as gliders bellied
natural treasures of this very special park. park. special very this of treasures natural
entry point to the gorge for thousands of years. This track is is track This years. of thousands for gorge the to point entry
conserve one of Queensland’s Queensland’s of one conserve Feel the excitement build as you drive across plains towards towards plains across drive you as build excitement the Feel Listen for the calls of yellow- of calls the for Listen
your spirit discovering the wealth of cultural and and cultural of wealth the discovering spirit your
within a gap in Clematis Ridge, used by Aboriginal people as an an as people Aboriginal by used Ridge, Clematis in gap a within
opportunity to protect and and protect to opportunity
and avoid sudden movements. movements. sudden avoid and the source of many great rivers. great many of source the
Getting to the Gorge the to Getting
water and time. Awaken your senses and nurture nurture and senses your Awaken time. and water example of stencilled Aboriginal rock art. Baloon Cave is located located is Cave Baloon art. rock Aboriginal stencilled of example
its challenges. However, the the However, challenges. its the gorge at night. Be very quiet quiet very Be night. at gorge the
Great Dividing Range—the aptly-named ‘Roof of Queensland’, Queensland’, of ‘Roof aptly-named Range—the Dividing Great
side-gorges, their subtly-coloured walls carved by by carved walls subtly-coloured their side-gorges, Stroll among Carnarvon fan palms and ancient cycads to a fine fine a to cycads ancient and palms fan Carnarvon among Stroll
national park is not without without not is park national
Take a torch and go spotlighting in in spotlighting go and torch a Take up towering slopes and out onto the rugged plateaus of the the of plateaus rugged the onto out and slopes towering up
1km return from Baloon Cave car park car Cave Baloon from return 1km or amazing animal. Venture deep into cool, lush lush cool, into deep Venture animal. amazing or
Living and working on a remote remote a on working and Living
and trek some or all of the 87km Carnarvon Great Walk. Wind Wind Walk. Great Carnarvon 87km the of all or some trek and
Baloon Cave Cave Baloon Carnarvon Creek reveal a splendid scene, new plant plant new scene, splendid a reveal Creek Carnarvon green gorge below a lookout or answer the call of adventure adventure of call the answer or lookout a below gorge green
with care and respect. and care with
oasis. Let every twist and turn of boulder-strewn boulder-strewn of turn and twist every Let oasis. longer walks. Soak up the magnificent views over the luscious luscious the over views magnificent the up Soak walks. longer The formed track ends 1.5km from the Mickey Creek car park. car Creek Mickey the from 1.5km ends track formed The
heritage place and ask that you explore the country country the explore you that ask and place heritage white sandstone cliffs envelop a creek-side creek-side a envelop cliffs sandstone white sandstone walls and deep inside cool narrow side gorges on on gorges side narrow cool inside deep and walls sandstone the track are slippery and caution is needed on creek crossings. crossings. creek on needed is caution and slippery are track the
walks or discover hidden wonders tucked beneath towering towering beneath tucked wonders hidden discover or walks spectacular steep-sided gorge, where towering towering where gorge, steep-sided spectacular Aboriginal people have with this significant cultural cultural significant this with have people Aboriginal for swamp wallabies resting from the heat. Rocky sections of of sections Rocky heat. the from resting wallabies swamp for
of Carnarvon Creek as you stroll along its shady banks on short short on banks shady its along stroll you as Creek Carnarvon of Take an unforgettable journey deep into a a into deep journey unforgettable an Take walking changes to an off-track adventure. Here you can look look can you Here adventure. off-track an to changes walking We acknowledge the long and ongoing connection connection ongoing and long the acknowledge We
Delight in the dazzling colours reflected in the sparkling waters waters sparkling the in reflected colours dazzling the in Delight
Wander along Mickey Creek and into narrow side-gorges where where side-gorges narrow into and Creek Mickey along Wander
Carnarvon Gorge Carnarvon
Take your time exploring deep into Carnarvon Gorge on foot. foot. on Gorge Carnarvon into deep exploring time your Take 3km return from Mickey Creek car park car Creek Mickey from return 3km
Mickey Creek Gorge Creek Mickey Venture on foot on Venture WELCOME TO WELCOME
Discovery guide
Connect with E Amphitheatre Remote hiking Explore respectfully Queensland National Parks Carnarvon 8.6km return Pack your hiking gear and take on the remote sections of the Unfortunately, some cultural sites within national parks have queenslandnationalparks.com.au/carnarvon gorge Discover a secret oasis. Hidden inside the gorge walls is a 60m Carnarvon Great Walk linking the Carnarvon Gorge and Mount been damaged through deliberate or natural means, with deep chamber gouged from the rock by running water. This is Moffatt sections of Carnarvon National Park. You’ll need 6–7 some rock art ruined or even completely destroyed. Help us Gorge book at qld.gov.au/camping a place for quiet contemplation—the towering stone walls and days, good preparation and high-level bushwalking experience work with the local Aboriginal people to protect this precious check npsr.qld.gov.au/park-alerts for park access, natural skylight create an awe-inspiring atmosphere within. to complete this amazing journey through spectacular and heritage. When visiting rock art sites please remember the art Carnarvon closures and conditions remote sandstone country. Organise your camping permit at is very fragile and can be permanently damaged if touched— Wards Canyon National Park qld.gov.au/camping and purchase a map before you head out. even by accident. Enjoy a close look, but please remain on facebook.com/qldnationalparks 9.2km return Complete a bushwalking advice form and leave a copy with boardwalks where provided. @QldParks; #QLDParks Photo: © Robert Ashdown Be enticed into cool and inviting Wards Canyon on a hot day. someone responsible before you depart. Climb the short, steep track winding through spotted gums, For help with planning your holiday, visit queensland.com Longer walks past a small waterfall and into a beautiful side-gorge, sheltering Pack the essentials the world’s largest fern, the king fern Angiopteris evecta. These Guided adventures impressive green ‘dinosaurs’ have strong links with the ancient • Plenty of drinking water—walking up the exposed gorge can The main gorge walking track Treat yourself and enhance your Carnarvon Gorge adventure. flora of Gondwanan origin. be hot and thirsty work. d To Emerald Criss-cross Carnarvon Creek as it winds 9.7km to the tranquil l Roa enta waters of Big Bend. Explore side-tracks leading to narrow, Guided tours are offered by commercial operators—just search • First-aid kit—you never know when you might need it. lopm Dawson eve Art Gallery on the Internet for Carnarvon Gorge guided tours. • Sunscreen, hat, appropriate clothing and good n D Highway hidden gorges and timeless rock art sites. This track is mostly so d 10.8km return aw a walking shoes. To Tambo D o flat, although you must step from rock to rock across the creek R Nurture your spirit gazing at over 2000 engravings, ochre stencils d and some side-tracks are steep. • Strong plastic bags or containers to remove your rubbish. Cungelella n Rolleston a Mt l To and free-hand paintings adorning the 62m long sandstone walls of Road k Other top spots to visit No bins are provided. c
Playfair u Biloela At Big Bend the graded track system ends and the remote C this significant Aboriginal site. The Art Gallery contains some of B • Satellite phone, Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), topographic Road a r If you enjoy Carnarvon Gorge, why not visit some other Ka Ka n hiking trail of the Carnarvon Great Walk begins. the best examples of stencil art in Australia. Salvator
Cl em • Camera for recording the wonderful memories of your Mount D W a 6.4km return er e t 18.2km return a iv i r R s r o Moffatt v e g Dip your toes into the spring-fed waters of Nogoa River, e C unforgettable visit to this awesome park. l k Discover what lies above the cliff line. Scale the steep slopes Carnarvon o This massive wind-eroded overhang sheltered Aboriginal people
p winding its way through a broad, picturesque valley beneath k Gorge e m
r e and be rewarded with views out towards distant ranges at for thousands of years. Admire the panorama of rock imagery k e ee e r craggy sandstone outcrops at Salvator Rosa. Drive 168km r v n i C C t R y a Boolimba Bluff, towering 200m above Carnarvon Creek. Walk ulla adorning its walls—reflecting the rich cultural life of those who l from Springsure or 135km from Tambo via Mount Playfair Road. h d t a an o n R a g n o through spotted gum woodland, rainforest scrub and stands of a S gathered here. o r 4WD is required. H a a Emergency! d M budgeroo in the early morning rays to best enjoy the gorge’s most diverse and only lookout track. Boowinda Gorge Relax at the peaceful camping spot near Bunbuncundoo Springs There is no mobile phone reception at Carnarvon Womblebank 18.4km return in Ka Ka Mundi where more than 30km of remote sandstone Scale Gorge. A pay phone is provided near the Carnarvon Cherish 0 30 60km Moss Garden escarpments and plateaus dominate the skyline. Drive 130km Injune Rock-hop into a sculpted side-gorge 100m upstream of Cathedral Gorge Visitor Centre. Call (Triple Zero) 000 on the To Roma south-west of Springsure. 4WD is recommended. 7km return Cave. The first kilometre of this boulder-strewn gorge is the most pay phone or your satellite mobile phone. M a timelessly n Beneath tree ferns straining for sunlight, a small waterfall n spectacular with its sculpted walls of moss covered sandstone. L a Venture by 4WD to explore Mount Moffatt where sandstone a n n d d i lla tumbles over a rock ledge into an icy pool, a perfect place to s monoliths tower above a carpet of open woodland. Basalt- b C r re o e k Big Bend—end of main walking track u seek refuge from the heat. Here water dripping constantly from crested plateaus form a backdrop to this subtle but spectacular g h 19.4km return Front cover photo: Robert Ashdown © Queensland Government the sandstone sustains a lush, green carpet of mosses, ferns landscape at the headwaters of the Maranoa River. Drive 220km Back cover photo: © Robert Ashdown and liverworts. Visit a natural pool nestled beneath looming sandstone walls in north of Mitchell. Carnarvon Creek. Rest here in the shade of large spotted gums Access roads to all sections of Carnarvon National Park have ©State of Queensland 2016. Boolimba Bluff is the perfect spot to capture a great photo of and watch catfish and turtles swim in the calm waters of the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, unsealed sections which are slippery when wet and can become the rising sun splashing colour along the gorge’s white cliffs. upper reaches of Carnarvon Creek. A composting toilet and picnic Department of National Parks, Sport and Racing. impassable after heavy rain. Take care to avoid stock on BP2173 June 2016 Ranger Tony table are provided. You can camp here all year round. unfenced roads and leave gates as you find them.
Printed on eco-friendly paper to save energy and resources. © Qld Govt Robert Photo: Ashdown R2 Great Walk circuit trail to Gadds walkers’ camp Battleship Spur Carnarvon Great Walk Head out on a hiking adventure along the rugged trails of the spectacular and remote landscapes typical of the Sandstone Wilderness on the 6–7 day, 87km Carnarvon Great Walk. Purchase a Carnarvon Great Walk topographic map before you head out. Map not to scale Photo: Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt Robert Photo: Ashdown
Big Bend R4 Legend J QPWS estate Private land R5 Waterways Boowinda Gorge I Road H Cathedral Cave R3 Wifi access Parking R6 Toilets Picnic table R2 Lookout R1 Camping Legend See main map Shower Great Walk Barbecue Walkers’ camp Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Area Accommodation Art Gallery F Wards Canyon R1 Walk section Restaurant G General store Amphitheatre E Rock art Car camping Tracks at a glance Caravan site Distances and return times are measured from Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Area unless otherwise stated. Swimming No swimming Track name Class Distance (return) Walking time No diving Main walking track 3/4 19.4km 7-8hrs Tread thoughtfully No fires Moss Garden D Nature Trail 3 1.5km 1hr Take up the challenge to leave no trace of your visit. It’s easy— Track and trail legend Boolimba Bluff 4 6.4km 2–3hrs here’s how: Class 2 track Moss Garden 3 7km 2–3hrs • Pack it in, pack it out. Take all rubbish (including food scraps, Class 3 track cigarette butts and sanitary items) with you. E Amphitheatre 3 8.6km 3–4hrs Class 4 track • Cook on a fuel stove. No open fires are allowed. Wards Canyon 3 9.2km 3–4hrs Class 5 track • Bush hygiene—keep it clean! Use toilets at the Carnarvon (Carnarvon Great Walk) Art Gallery 3 10.8km 3–4hrs Gorge Visitor Area, the Moss Garden turn-off and at Big Bend. Take care not to pollute the natural water supplies. Cathedral Cave 4 18.2km 5–6hrs o Wash away from streams, gullies and watercourses. Boowinda Gorge 4 18.4km 5–6hrs o Bury all faecal waste and toilet paper 15cm deep and at least 100m from waterways (carry a small trowel or ge Big Bend camping area 4 19.4km 7–8hrs or spade for this purpose). G n Mickey Creek Gorge from Mickey Creek car park 3 3km 1.5hrs • Never feed wildlife. This upsets the balance of nature and vo ar harms the animals in the long term. They can also become rn Ca Baloon Cave from Baloon Cave car park 2 1km 45 mins Great Walk circuit trail from aggressive to humans. Cabbage Tree walkers’ camp Rock Pool from Rock Pool car park 3 600m 30mins • Keep to tracks and boardwalks to avoid damaging fragile C Boolimba Bluff Aboriginal rock art, trampling sensitive vegetation, causing R6 Rock Pool from Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Area 3 3.6km 2hrs erosion or accidently caving in platypus burrows. A R1 Carnarvon Great Walk 3/4/5 87km 6–7 days • Graffiti is not ‘leaving your mark’—it’s vandalism. Warrumbah Bluff Carnarvon Gorge Penalties apply. Visitor Area tr ack classification B Nature Trail Adventure safely Main walking track starts here Class Symbol Suits Track description Make your visit memorable for all the right reasons.
M No bushwalking experience required. The track has a compacted surface Carnarvon Gorge is remote with many natural hazards, so be icke y Cr 2 Families with young children with gentle incline sections, some steps and a ramp. May be suitable for careful and don’t take risks. Rescue and medical help can be eek wheelchair users who have someone to assist them. hours away. K Mickey Creek Suitable for most ages and fitness levels. Tracks may have short steep hill • Check Park Alerts online and obtain weather forecasts People with some bushwalking 3 sections and many steps. Caution is needed on creek crossings, ladders and river level information before heading to the park as experience and lookouts. Ankle-supporting footwear required. conditions can change rapidly. • No matter what type of walk you intend to do, you should Tracks may be extensively overgrown, rough and very steep. Caution always plan ahead. Judge your ability and conditions Baloon Cave 4 Experienced bushwalkers is needed on creek crossings, loose surfaces, cliff edges and exposed carefully before setting out, even on short walks. L naturally-occurring outlooks. Ankle-supporting footwear required. • Learn as much as you can about the terrain and local High level of physical fitness and map reading skills required. Track has conditions and make sure that you carry appropriate Rock Pool M 5 Very experienced bushwalkers very steep sections, irregular surface and loose stones. Directional signs clothing and reliable gear. Choose walks that suite the C limited. High-quality, ankle-supporting footwear required. capabilities of your entire group. Stay together and keep to ar na rv the walking tracks. on Carnarvon Gorge C re • Take care on the many rocky creek crossings. Stepping Wilderness Lodge e k stones can be slippery or unstable. Serious injury has occurred to visitors as a result of falling on the rocks. Wear appropriate footwear with a good grip. • Carry plenty of drinking water. Creek water is unsuitable for drinking. Treated drinking water is only available from taps in the visitor area. • Falling trees and limbs, flash flooding and rock falls occur naturally at any time. Avoid walking in extreme weather. Finger orchid Caladenia catenata (above); Echidna Tachyglossus aculeatus (above right); See the weatherboard at the Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Robust rainbow skink Carlia schmeltzii (right); Centre for current weather updates. Takarakka Moss Garden (far right) Bush Resort • Never dive or jump into any creek or waterhole. Shallow Photos: © Qld Govt (above); Robert water and submerged objects present a serious risk. Ashdown © Qld Govt (above right); You may be severely injured or killed. To Rolleston © Robert Ashdown (right); and Injune © Michael O’Connor (far right) R2 Great Walk circuit trail to Gadds walkers’ camp Battleship Spur Carnarvon Great Walk Head out on a hiking adventure along the rugged trails of the spectacular and remote landscapes typical of the Sandstone Wilderness on the 6–7 day, 87km Carnarvon Great Walk. Purchase a Carnarvon Great Walk topographic map before you head out. Map not to scale Photo: Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt Robert Photo: Ashdown
Big Bend R4 Legend J QPWS estate Private land R5 Waterways Boowinda Gorge I Road H Cathedral Cave R3 Wifi access Parking R6 Toilets Picnic table R2 Lookout R1 Camping Legend See main map Shower Great Walk Barbecue Walkers’ camp Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Area Accommodation Art Gallery F Wards Canyon R1 Walk section Restaurant G General store Amphitheatre E Rock art Car camping Tracks at a glance Caravan site Distances and return times are measured from Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Area unless otherwise stated. Swimming No swimming Track name Class Distance (return) Walking time No diving Main walking track 3/4 19.4km 7-8hrs Tread thoughtfully No fires Moss Garden D Nature Trail 3 1.5km 1hr Take up the challenge to leave no trace of your visit. It’s easy— Track and trail legend Boolimba Bluff 4 6.4km 2–3hrs here’s how: Class 2 track Moss Garden 3 7km 2–3hrs • Pack it in, pack it out. Take all rubbish (including food scraps, Class 3 track cigarette butts and sanitary items) with you. E Amphitheatre 3 8.6km 3–4hrs Class 4 track • Cook on a fuel stove. No open fires are allowed. Wards Canyon 3 9.2km 3–4hrs Class 5 track • Bush hygiene—keep it clean! Use toilets at the Carnarvon (Carnarvon Great Walk) Art Gallery 3 10.8km 3–4hrs Gorge Visitor Area, the Moss Garden turn-off and at Big Bend. Take care not to pollute the natural water supplies. Cathedral Cave 4 18.2km 5–6hrs o Wash away from streams, gullies and watercourses. Boowinda Gorge 4 18.4km 5–6hrs o Bury all faecal waste and toilet paper 15cm deep and at least 100m from waterways (carry a small trowel or ge Big Bend camping area 4 19.4km 7–8hrs or spade for this purpose). G n Mickey Creek Gorge from Mickey Creek car park 3 3km 1.5hrs • Never feed wildlife. This upsets the balance of nature and vo ar harms the animals in the long term. They can also become rn Ca Baloon Cave from Baloon Cave car park 2 1km 45 mins Great Walk circuit trail from aggressive to humans. Cabbage Tree walkers’ camp Rock Pool from Rock Pool car park 3 600m 30mins • Keep to tracks and boardwalks to avoid damaging fragile C Boolimba Bluff Aboriginal rock art, trampling sensitive vegetation, causing R6 Rock Pool from Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Area 3 3.6km 2hrs erosion or accidently caving in platypus burrows. A R1 Carnarvon Great Walk 3/4/5 87km 6–7 days • Graffiti is not ‘leaving your mark’—it’s vandalism. Warrumbah Bluff Carnarvon Gorge Penalties apply. Visitor Area tr ack classification B Nature Trail Adventure safely Main walking track starts here Class Symbol Suits Track description Make your visit memorable for all the right reasons.
M No bushwalking experience required. The track has a compacted surface Carnarvon Gorge is remote with many natural hazards, so be icke y Cr 2 Families with young children with gentle incline sections, some steps and a ramp. May be suitable for careful and don’t take risks. Rescue and medical help can be eek wheelchair users who have someone to assist them. hours away. K Mickey Creek Suitable for most ages and fitness levels. Tracks may have short steep hill • Check Park Alerts online and obtain weather forecasts People with some bushwalking 3 sections and many steps. Caution is needed on creek crossings, ladders and river level information before heading to the park as experience and lookouts. Ankle-supporting footwear required. conditions can change rapidly. • No matter what type of walk you intend to do, you should Tracks may be extensively overgrown, rough and very steep. Caution always plan ahead. Judge your ability and conditions Baloon Cave 4 Experienced bushwalkers is needed on creek crossings, loose surfaces, cliff edges and exposed carefully before setting out, even on short walks. L naturally-occurring outlooks. Ankle-supporting footwear required. • Learn as much as you can about the terrain and local High level of physical fitness and map reading skills required. Track has conditions and make sure that you carry appropriate Rock Pool M 5 Very experienced bushwalkers very steep sections, irregular surface and loose stones. Directional signs clothing and reliable gear. Choose walks that suite the C limited. High-quality, ankle-supporting footwear required. capabilities of your entire group. Stay together and keep to ar na rv the walking tracks. on Carnarvon Gorge C re • Take care on the many rocky creek crossings. Stepping Wilderness Lodge e k stones can be slippery or unstable. Serious injury has occurred to visitors as a result of falling on the rocks. Wear appropriate footwear with a good grip. • Carry plenty of drinking water. Creek water is unsuitable for drinking. Treated drinking water is only available from taps in the visitor area. • Falling trees and limbs, flash flooding and rock falls occur naturally at any time. Avoid walking in extreme weather. Finger orchid Caladenia catenata (above); Echidna Tachyglossus aculeatus (above right); See the weatherboard at the Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Robust rainbow skink Carlia schmeltzii (right); Centre for current weather updates. Takarakka Moss Garden (far right) Bush Resort • Never dive or jump into any creek or waterhole. Shallow Photos: © Qld Govt (above); Robert water and submerged objects present a serious risk. Ashdown © Qld Govt (above right); You may be severely injured or killed. To Rolleston © Robert Ashdown (right); and Injune © Michael O’Connor (far right) R2 Great Walk circuit trail to Gadds walkers’ camp Battleship Spur Carnarvon Great Walk Head out on a hiking adventure along the rugged trails of the spectacular and remote landscapes typical of the Sandstone Wilderness on the 6–7 day, 87km Carnarvon Great Walk. Purchase a Carnarvon Great Walk topographic map before you head out. Map not to scale Photo: Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt Robert Photo: Ashdown
Big Bend R4 Legend J QPWS estate Private land R5 Waterways Boowinda Gorge I Road H Cathedral Cave R3 Wifi access Parking R6 Toilets Picnic table R2 Lookout R1 Camping Legend See main map Shower Great Walk Barbecue Walkers’ camp Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Area Accommodation Art Gallery F Wards Canyon R1 Walk section Restaurant G General store Amphitheatre E Rock art Car camping Tracks at a glance Caravan site Distances and return times are measured from Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Area unless otherwise stated. Swimming No swimming Track name Class Distance (return) Walking time No diving Main walking track 3/4 19.4km 7-8hrs Tread thoughtfully No fires Moss Garden D Nature Trail 3 1.5km 1hr Take up the challenge to leave no trace of your visit. It’s easy— Track and trail legend Boolimba Bluff 4 6.4km 2–3hrs here’s how: Class 2 track Moss Garden 3 7km 2–3hrs • Pack it in, pack it out. Take all rubbish (including food scraps, Class 3 track cigarette butts and sanitary items) with you. E Amphitheatre 3 8.6km 3–4hrs Class 4 track • Cook on a fuel stove. No open fires are allowed. Wards Canyon 3 9.2km 3–4hrs Class 5 track • Bush hygiene—keep it clean! Use toilets at the Carnarvon (Carnarvon Great Walk) Art Gallery 3 10.8km 3–4hrs Gorge Visitor Area, the Moss Garden turn-off and at Big Bend. Take care not to pollute the natural water supplies. Cathedral Cave 4 18.2km 5–6hrs o Wash away from streams, gullies and watercourses. Boowinda Gorge 4 18.4km 5–6hrs o Bury all faecal waste and toilet paper 15cm deep and at least 100m from waterways (carry a small trowel or ge Big Bend camping area 4 19.4km 7–8hrs or spade for this purpose). G n Mickey Creek Gorge from Mickey Creek car park 3 3km 1.5hrs • Never feed wildlife. This upsets the balance of nature and vo ar harms the animals in the long term. They can also become rn Ca Baloon Cave from Baloon Cave car park 2 1km 45 mins Great Walk circuit trail from aggressive to humans. Cabbage Tree walkers’ camp Rock Pool from Rock Pool car park 3 600m 30mins • Keep to tracks and boardwalks to avoid damaging fragile C Boolimba Bluff Aboriginal rock art, trampling sensitive vegetation, causing R6 Rock Pool from Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Area 3 3.6km 2hrs erosion or accidently caving in platypus burrows. A R1 Carnarvon Great Walk 3/4/5 87km 6–7 days • Graffiti is not ‘leaving your mark’—it’s vandalism. Warrumbah Bluff Carnarvon Gorge Penalties apply. Visitor Area tr ack classification B Nature Trail Adventure safely Main walking track starts here Class Symbol Suits Track description Make your visit memorable for all the right reasons.
M No bushwalking experience required. The track has a compacted surface Carnarvon Gorge is remote with many natural hazards, so be icke y Cr 2 Families with young children with gentle incline sections, some steps and a ramp. May be suitable for careful and don’t take risks. Rescue and medical help can be eek wheelchair users who have someone to assist them. hours away. K Mickey Creek Suitable for most ages and fitness levels. Tracks may have short steep hill • Check Park Alerts online and obtain weather forecasts People with some bushwalking 3 sections and many steps. Caution is needed on creek crossings, ladders and river level information before heading to the park as experience and lookouts. Ankle-supporting footwear required. conditions can change rapidly. • No matter what type of walk you intend to do, you should Tracks may be extensively overgrown, rough and very steep. Caution always plan ahead. Judge your ability and conditions Baloon Cave 4 Experienced bushwalkers is needed on creek crossings, loose surfaces, cliff edges and exposed carefully before setting out, even on short walks. L naturally-occurring outlooks. Ankle-supporting footwear required. • Learn as much as you can about the terrain and local High level of physical fitness and map reading skills required. Track has conditions and make sure that you carry appropriate Rock Pool M 5 Very experienced bushwalkers very steep sections, irregular surface and loose stones. Directional signs clothing and reliable gear. Choose walks that suite the C limited. High-quality, ankle-supporting footwear required. capabilities of your entire group. Stay together and keep to ar na rv the walking tracks. on Carnarvon Gorge C re • Take care on the many rocky creek crossings. Stepping Wilderness Lodge e k stones can be slippery or unstable. Serious injury has occurred to visitors as a result of falling on the rocks. Wear appropriate footwear with a good grip. • Carry plenty of drinking water. Creek water is unsuitable for drinking. Treated drinking water is only available from taps in the visitor area. • Falling trees and limbs, flash flooding and rock falls occur naturally at any time. Avoid walking in extreme weather. Finger orchid Caladenia catenata (above); Echidna Tachyglossus aculeatus (above right); See the weatherboard at the Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Robust rainbow skink Carlia schmeltzii (right); Centre for current weather updates. Takarakka Moss Garden (far right) Bush Resort • Never dive or jump into any creek or waterhole. Shallow Photos: © Qld Govt (above); Robert water and submerged objects present a serious risk. Ashdown © Qld Govt (above right); You may be severely injured or killed. To Rolleston © Robert Ashdown (right); and Injune © Michael O’Connor (far right) R2 Great Walk circuit trail to Gadds walkers’ camp Battleship Spur Carnarvon Great Walk Head out on a hiking adventure along the rugged trails of the spectacular and remote landscapes typical of the Sandstone Wilderness on the 6–7 day, 87km Carnarvon Great Walk. Purchase a Carnarvon Great Walk topographic map before you head out. Map not to scale Photo: Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt Robert Photo: Ashdown
Big Bend R4 Legend J QPWS estate Private land R5 Waterways Boowinda Gorge I Road H Cathedral Cave R3 Wifi access Parking R6 Toilets Picnic table R2 Lookout R1 Camping Legend See main map Shower Great Walk Barbecue Walkers’ camp Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Area Accommodation Art Gallery F Wards Canyon R1 Walk section Restaurant G General store Amphitheatre E Rock art Car camping Tracks at a glance Caravan site Distances and return times are measured from Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Area unless otherwise stated. Swimming No swimming Track name Class Distance (return) Walking time No diving Main walking track 3/4 19.4km 7-8hrs Tread thoughtfully No fires Moss Garden D Nature Trail 3 1.5km 1hr Take up the challenge to leave no trace of your visit. It’s easy— Track and trail legend Boolimba Bluff 4 6.4km 2–3hrs here’s how: Class 2 track Moss Garden 3 7km 2–3hrs • Pack it in, pack it out. Take all rubbish (including food scraps, Class 3 track cigarette butts and sanitary items) with you. E Amphitheatre 3 8.6km 3–4hrs Class 4 track • Cook on a fuel stove. No open fires are allowed. Wards Canyon 3 9.2km 3–4hrs Class 5 track • Bush hygiene—keep it clean! Use toilets at the Carnarvon (Carnarvon Great Walk) Art Gallery 3 10.8km 3–4hrs Gorge Visitor Area, the Moss Garden turn-off and at Big Bend. Take care not to pollute the natural water supplies. Cathedral Cave 4 18.2km 5–6hrs o Wash away from streams, gullies and watercourses. Boowinda Gorge 4 18.4km 5–6hrs o Bury all faecal waste and toilet paper 15cm deep and at least 100m from waterways (carry a small trowel or ge Big Bend camping area 4 19.4km 7–8hrs or spade for this purpose). G n Mickey Creek Gorge from Mickey Creek car park 3 3km 1.5hrs • Never feed wildlife. This upsets the balance of nature and vo ar harms the animals in the long term. They can also become rn Ca Baloon Cave from Baloon Cave car park 2 1km 45 mins Great Walk circuit trail from aggressive to humans. Cabbage Tree walkers’ camp Rock Pool from Rock Pool car park 3 600m 30mins • Keep to tracks and boardwalks to avoid damaging fragile C Boolimba Bluff Aboriginal rock art, trampling sensitive vegetation, causing R6 Rock Pool from Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Area 3 3.6km 2hrs erosion or accidently caving in platypus burrows. A R1 Carnarvon Great Walk 3/4/5 87km 6–7 days • Graffiti is not ‘leaving your mark’—it’s vandalism. Warrumbah Bluff Carnarvon Gorge Penalties apply. Visitor Area tr ack classification B Nature Trail Adventure safely Main walking track starts here Class Symbol Suits Track description Make your visit memorable for all the right reasons.
M No bushwalking experience required. The track has a compacted surface Carnarvon Gorge is remote with many natural hazards, so be icke y Cr 2 Families with young children with gentle incline sections, some steps and a ramp. May be suitable for careful and don’t take risks. Rescue and medical help can be eek wheelchair users who have someone to assist them. hours away. K Mickey Creek Suitable for most ages and fitness levels. Tracks may have short steep hill • Check Park Alerts online and obtain weather forecasts People with some bushwalking 3 sections and many steps. Caution is needed on creek crossings, ladders and river level information before heading to the park as experience and lookouts. Ankle-supporting footwear required. conditions can change rapidly. • No matter what type of walk you intend to do, you should Tracks may be extensively overgrown, rough and very steep. Caution always plan ahead. Judge your ability and conditions Baloon Cave 4 Experienced bushwalkers is needed on creek crossings, loose surfaces, cliff edges and exposed carefully before setting out, even on short walks. L naturally-occurring outlooks. Ankle-supporting footwear required. • Learn as much as you can about the terrain and local High level of physical fitness and map reading skills required. Track has conditions and make sure that you carry appropriate Rock Pool M 5 Very experienced bushwalkers very steep sections, irregular surface and loose stones. Directional signs clothing and reliable gear. Choose walks that suite the C limited. High-quality, ankle-supporting footwear required. capabilities of your entire group. Stay together and keep to ar na rv the walking tracks. on Carnarvon Gorge C re • Take care on the many rocky creek crossings. Stepping Wilderness Lodge e k stones can be slippery or unstable. Serious injury has occurred to visitors as a result of falling on the rocks. Wear appropriate footwear with a good grip. • Carry plenty of drinking water. Creek water is unsuitable for drinking. Treated drinking water is only available from taps in the visitor area. • Falling trees and limbs, flash flooding and rock falls occur naturally at any time. Avoid walking in extreme weather. Finger orchid Caladenia catenata (above); Echidna Tachyglossus aculeatus (above right); See the weatherboard at the Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Robust rainbow skink Carlia schmeltzii (right); Centre for current weather updates. Takarakka Moss Garden (far right) Bush Resort • Never dive or jump into any creek or waterhole. Shallow Photos: © Qld Govt (above); Robert water and submerged objects present a serious risk. Ashdown © Qld Govt (above right); You may be severely injured or killed. To Rolleston © Robert Ashdown (right); and Injune © Michael O’Connor (far right)