Barron Gorge National Park Tropical North Queensland

Barron Falls, Jodie Cross © Queensland Government

Journeys

There are a variety of walks in Barron Gorge National Park including easy short walks from 1.2km to difficult full day walks up to 13.5km.

Walks start from three different places: near Kuranda , near Speewah and near Kamerunga.

For short walks starting near Kuranda see Barron Gorge National Park short walks map (PDF, 437.3KB) .

For long walks starting from Speewah Conservation Park and from Kamerunga, see Barron Gorge National Park map (PDF, 596.2KB) .

Walking track network

A network of Aboriginal walking tracks—djimburru—traversed the traditional Djabugay lands between the tableland and the coast. The Djabuganydji Bama walked these tracks for trade, seasonal food gathering and to visit ceremonial sites. In the period of early European contact—around the late 1800s—the network of walking tracks was adapted by gold miners, cattle drovers and railway workers to cater for pack horses. The two main routes through the Barron Gorge became known as the Smith and Douglas tracks. Today these historic trails, along with more recent linking tracks, form a network of long-distance walking tracks throughout the park. Walkers may choose from half and full day walks. See page 2 of the map (PDF, 596.2KB) for long-distance walk options.

Walkers need to be fit, well-prepared and experienced to undertake these long-distance walks throughout the park.

Download maps and other walk information before you leave as mobile reception is unreliable.

Glacier Rock seen from Smith track

Glacier Rock seen from Smith track

Photo credit: Ann Chalmers

Walk safely

  • Inform someone of your itinerary including starting and finishing times.
  • Plan to complete your walk well before dark.
  • Select walks to suit your fitness and experience level—you need to be a fit and experienced bushwalker to walk the longer tracks.
  • Stay on the walking tracks and take care on rough, uneven surfaces.
  • Stay clear of cliff edges and steep rock faces, and carefully supervise children.
  • Ensure you carry adequate drinking water.
  • Wear sunscreen, a hat, protective clothing and sturdy footwear.
  • Be careful at creek crossings—water levels can change rapidly.
  • Wear protective clothing and insect repellent for protection against stings, scratches and insect bites.
  • Be aware that stinging trees are found alongside the walking tracks. Never touch this plant as it may result in a very painful sting.
  • Mobile phone coverage is unreliable.

  • Walking tracks summary

    Summary information about all the walks that can be taken at Barron Gorge National Park, including maps.

  • Din Din Barron Falls lookout track near Kuranda

    An elevated boardwalk suspended high above the forest floor winds through the rainforest canopy to a lookout over the spectacular Barron Falls.

    Journey type
    Walk
    Distance
    800m one way
    Time suggested
    15min one way
    Grade
    easy (walk)

  • McDonald track near Kuranda

    This historic track links Wrights lookout to Douglas track. It winds in and out of rainforest with lovely views over the Barron Gorge and lower Barron Falls.

    Journey type
    Walk
    Distance
    4.7km one way one way
    Time suggested
    Allow 2hr walking time
    Grade
    moderate (walk)

  • Djina-Wu track near Speewah

    This easy walk, through spectacular rainforest, links Speewah camping area to the historic Douglas and Smith tracks.

    Journey type
    Walk
    Distance
    800m one way one way
    Time suggested
    15min one way
    Grade
    easy (walk)

  • Smith track from Speewah to Kamerunga

    This moderate walk with steep sections passes through rainforest, wet eucalypt forest and grasslands with a variety of historical and natural features.

    Journey type
    Walk
    Distance
    8.5km one way from Speewah Conservation Park (or via Yalbogie track, 10.3km one way) one way
    Time suggested
    Allow 3.5hr walking time (or via Yalbogie track, 4hr one way)
    Grade
    moderate (walk)

  • Stoney Creek Garndal Garndal weir track near Kamerunga

    This easy walk past crystal-clear pools and small waterfalls ends on a large boulder overlooking Stoney Creek.

    Journey type
    Walk
    Distance
    1km one way
    Time suggested
    Allow about 15min one way
    Grade
    easy (walk)

  • Douglas track from Kamerunga to Speewah

    This undulating historic track through dense vegetation links Kamerunga on the coast with Speewah on the tablelands.

    Journey type
    Walk
    Distance
    8.5km one way one way
    Time suggested
    Allow 3hr walking time
    Grade
    moderate (walk)