Atherton Tablelands Walking Trails
To experience the magic of this region, here are some of Atherton Tablelands Walking Trails.
Numerous options are available to suit every fitness level. All walks offer magnificent wildlife and nature opportunities, so have your camera ready.
Kuranda, Barron Gorge National Park
After taking the turn-off into Kuranda, travel 3.5 km along Barron Falls Road. Pull into the car park when you see the Barron Falls car park signs. From here, you have access to the Barron Falls Lookout. These immense falls thunder over the edge, an awe-inspiring sight, especially after some rain.
- Distance: 1.2 km return
- Fitness Level: Easy, beginner
Another 1.4 km down the road, you will find the Surprise Creek Walk and Wright’s Lookout—Marvel at the picturesque rainforest before emerging at Surprise Falls. The water cascades 243 metres down into the Barron Gorge.
- Distance: 2.8 km return
- Fitness Level: Moderate
Mareeba – Emerald Creek Falls
15 km south-east of the township of Mareeba. Not an Atherton Tablelands Hiking Trails to miss. The Emerald Creek Falls hike has excellent wildlife and birdwatching opportunities.
Emerald Creek emerges from the rainforest’s heights and streams into eucalypt woodland. The waterfalls tumble over giant granite boulders, leading to tranquil swimming pools below.
- Distance: 2 km
- Fitness Level: Moderately fit
Mareeba – Davies Creek Falls / National Park
You will find a few different Hiking Trails here. The Davies Creek Falls are probably the centrepiece. A pathway will lead you to two other access points, where you can view the falls as they plunge 75 metres into the valley below.
Then, you follow the creek to a beautiful picnic location. During the walk, look for a platypus.
- Distance: 1.1 km
- Fitness Level: Easy, beginner
One of the more experienced hikers is the Turtle Rock Circuit. Never walk alone, and start early in the morning. You will pass through an open eucalypt forest and see many stunning Xanthorrhoea (grass trees).
The track gets steep as you begin to climb the ridge. Ensure you have sturdy boots, as the ground will be rough with loose gravel for the final climb to the 936-metre summit. Here, there are spectacular views and massive boulders.
- Distance: 8 km
- Fitness Level: Difficult, experienced hikers only
Kahlpahlim Rock Hike is another for experienced walkers. At 1300 metres above sea level, it is the highest point on the Lamb Range. Two steep trails will lead you to the top. The sheer size of the rock and stunning views are impressive.
Again, start the hike when it’s chilly in the morning. You will see various birds and look for the endangered Northern Bettong.
- Distance: This can vary depending on if you decide to make both Hiking Trails or just one.
- Fitness Level: Difficult. Inform a reliable person of your plans before this walk.
Windin Falls
The Windin Falls is truly a spectacular sight. The trail is also stunning and can take 1-2 hours each way, depending on your fitness level.
Begin the walk at Butchers Creek. You’ll have to exercise extreme caution when arriving at the falls, as getting down to the waterfall is very steep. However, this hike is worthwhile, with breathtaking views upon arriving at the falls.
- Distance: 11 km
- Fitness Level: Moderate to difficult
Lake Tinaroo: Kauri Creek Walk
It is an easy walk along the banks of Kauri Creek, shaded by the rainforest. You will most likely hear the screeching call of the chowchilla. Wander through the rainforests and tall pine plantations.
There will be lots of beautiful nature and wildlife opportunities. Watch for the rare Green-eyed Tree Frog and the well-camouflaged Boyds Forest Dragon.
- Distance: 5 km
- Fitness Level: Moderately fit
Atherton – Hallorans Hill
This uphill track takes you through the rare and protected Mabi forest. Enjoy a shaded walk as you ascend to the summit of Hallorans Hill. This one can be steep in places but is worth it for the magnificent views and excellent birdwatching.
- Distance: 3 km
- Fitness Level: Moderately fit
Yungaburra – Crater Lakes
The Lake Eacham Hiking Trails lead you around a lush rainforest-encircled extinct crater lake. The lake’s water is a crystal clear blue. The area is teeming with wildlife.
You may be lucky enough to spot the tiny Musky Rat Kangaroo – one of the few marsupial species active during the daytime.
- Distance: 3 km
- Fitness Level: Moderately fit
Lake Barrine is yet another pristine volcanic crater lake nestled in the rainforest. You will have uninterrupted views of the lake from the fringing forest.
This area has wildlife—countless bird species, water dragons, and turtles basking in the sun. After your walk, please stop at the Lake Barrine Teahouse for their famous Devonshire Tea.
- Distance: 5 km
- Fitness Level: Moderately fit
Misty Mountains Wilderness Tracks
There is something mysterious and magical about the Misty Mountains. Through the national parks of Tully Falls, Tully Gorge, and Wooroonooran, we cover a sizable area that includes Tully, Innisfail, Mena Creek, Millaa Millaa, and Ravenshoe.
As the name suggests, these mountains high up in the rainforest are nearly always covered with a beautiful mist. There are lots of different hiking trails to find here. You can discover waterfalls, pristine rainforest creeks, and spectacular panoramic views here.
Click here to view a map of the various hiking trails through these mountains.
- Distance: 130 km of long and short Hiking Trails
- Fitness Level: This can vary from easy to experienced hikers
Mamu Tropical Skywalk
Mamu Tropical Skywalk
Next, visit this fantastic Skywalk on Palmerston Highway. Explore the rainforest from the floor to the canopy, with an elevated walkway rising from ground level.
The panoramic views of the rainforest are breathtaking. A 15-metre-high walkway and an observation tower are escalating to 37- metres! Get up close to some of the spectacular butterfly and bird species.
Along the way, there are several places to sit if you need a rest. There are more than 1100 metres of forest walking tracks to explore in this region.
- Distance: Elevated walkway is 350 metres
- Easy to moderate.
Click HERE to view a map of the Atherton Tablelands parks and forests.