Getting there and getting around

• Wet Tropics Great Walk map (PDF, 1.8MB)

Blencoe Falls

Blencoe Falls can be accessed from both inland and from the coast via unsealed roads that should only be attempted in dry conditions by 4WD vehicles. Be aware that flooding may occur during the wetter months (December to April), particularly at Cashmere Crossing and Blencoe Creek bridge.

Access from the coast is via Kirrama Range Road. At Kennedy, 10km north of Cardwell, turn west and travel 6km to the base of Kirrama Range and a further 24km to Society Flat, Kirrama Range National Park. Continue another 44km to Blencoe Falls camping area.

If travelling from inland, follow Gunnawarra Road (from its junction with the Kennedy Highway, 4km west of Mount Garnet) for 55km, then turn left onto Kirrama–Cashmere Road. Travel 45km along Kirrama-Cashmere Road to the signposted track and to the Blencoe Falls and Herbert River Gorge lookouts. From here either turn and follow the track 5.2km to the lookout parking area, or continue another 1.4km to Blencoe Falls camping area.

The Juwun and Jambal walks start to the east of the Blencoe Falls camping area, marked by an information sign.

Yamanie pick-up point

The Yamanie pick-up point and camp site is 60km from Ingham, about a 45min drive through rural properties. Travel west from Ingham along Abergowrie Road. At the end of the road you will find a gate — the entrance to Girringun National Park. Please close the gate behind you. Beyond the gate 4WDs are essential.

Local flooding may restrict access. Check out local road conditions via QLD traffic.

There is no caravan access to Blencoe Falls or the Yamanie pick-up point.

Wheelchair accessibility

There are no wheelchair-accessible tracks or facilities included as part of the Wet Tropics Great Walk.

Staying safe

The Juwun and Jambal walks are remote and isolated Grade 5 walks that should only be attempted by very experienced walkers with specialised skills, including navigation and emergency first aid. Consider your ability and the track conditions carefully before setting out.

Never walk alone. Small groups of four are ideal.

The Juwun walk is a strenuous walk following the Herbert River Gorge. There is no designated walking track in the gorge between Blanket Creek and Yamanie pick-up point, so walkers must carefully navigate their own path. Obstacles include impassable bluffs, impassable debris in the river and thick vegetation. Walkers must expect to retrace their steps when encountering obstacles, and will need to cross the river multiple times, being aware at all times that estuarine crocodiles may be encountered.

River safety

Always follow these guidelines:

• Water should only be collected from shallow, flowing rapids. Treat water before drinking.
• Only cross the river at shallow rapids. Be careful, rocks may be extremely slippery.
• Wear sturdy shoes when crossing. Sharp rocks can cause discomfort and bullrouts (freshwater stonefish) live in the river. If stung, seek medical attention.
• Estuarine (saltwater) crocodiles inhabit the waterholes, creeks and rivers along this track. View how to ‘Be Crocwise’ below.

Be Crocwise

Estuarine (saltwater) crocodiles inhabit the waterholes, creeks and rivers you will cross during this walk. Crocodiles can be dangerous. Do not take unnecessary risks and remember to Be Crocwise to reduce your risk of crocodile attack when crossing waterways:

• cross in full daylight – never at dawn, dusk or at night
• cross only in shallow, clear water where you can see the bottom.

The best way you can Be Crocwise is to keep out of the water, stay more than 5m from the water’s edge and keep a sturdy object like a boulder or tree stump between yourself and the water. Camp at least 50m from the water’s edge.

Beware of wild cattle and pigs

Wild cattle and pigs may be encountered in this area. Never startle or approach these animals and ensure they have a clear path to escape. Never camp near areas where they frequent. Walking through the gorge can be slow and difficult due to rocky surfaces. While animal trails may make the walking easier, keep a careful watch for wild cattle and pigs.

For more information, please read the guidelines on safety in parks and forests.

Before you visit

Remember to tell a responsible person where you are going and when you expect to return. Let them know your route and contact them on your return. Have a contingency plan in place if you fail to contact them by the agreed time. If you change your plans, inform them.

Essentials to bring

The Juwun and Jambal walks are remote and there are no facilities. Walkers must be fully self-sufficient and pack the right equipment and bushwalking gear.

• Pack a first-aid kit including a space blanket and snake bandages and know how to apply first aid. It may save someone’s life.
• Take adequate clothing. Be prepared for all weather conditions including rain.
• Wear sturdy, reliable footwear. Make sure your footwear has been worn in before you start your walk.
• Bring a topographic map and a compass or a GPS to help you accurately pinpoint your location. There is no designated walking track in the gorge between Blanket Creek and Yamanie pick-up point. Some maps may show a walking track along the Juwun section of the Herbert River George – be aware that no formed track exists and use any mapped tracks for general guidance only – they are not to be relied upon for navigation.
• A quality lightweight, waterproof tent and a lightweight sleeping bag and sleeping mat will make your trip more enjoyable.
• Protect yourself from the sun. Wear sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and a long-sleeved shirt, even on cloudy days.
• Wear insect repellent, clothing and shoes to protect yourself from stings, scratches and bites.
• Bring a small hand trowel and biodegradable toilet paper.
• Take a torch or headlamp.
• Pack a pocket knife.
• Take a gas or liquid fuel stove with spare fuel. Open fires are not permitted. Remember to include a lighter or waterproof matches.
• Lightweight cooking and eating utensils and a container for washing dishes will make meal times easier.
• Ensure you bring water-carrying containers big enough to carry a day’s water.
• Carry adequate drinking water. Treat water collected from creeks and rivers and know how to Be Crocwise in croc country.
• Take waterproof bags for keeping clothing and bedding dry, and for storing rubbish.
• Pack nourishing lightweight, compact food and high-energy snacks. Allow 1–2 days’ worth of extra food.
• Carry at least one form of communication equipment. Satellite phones and Personal Location Beacons (PLBs) are the most effective in this area. Mobile phone coverage is very limited and should not be relied on.

Opening hours

Girringun National Park is open 24 hours a day. The Juwun and Jambal walks are closed every year during the wet season typically from 1 December to 31 March but variable dependant on season. Flooding or high river levels make the walk unsafe during this time. This seasonal closure may be extended depending on weather conditions.

Additional closures may occur for management purposes including pest plant and animal control.