Thorsborne Trail, Hinchinbrook Island National Park Tropical North Queensland

Thornborne trail between Little Ramsay Bay and Zoe Bay Photo credit: Tamara Vallance © Queensland Government

Things to do

    One of the many creeks along the Thorsborne Trail.

    One of the many creeks along the Thorsborne Trail.

    Photo credit: Queensland Government

    Camping and accommodation

    Camping

    Seven camping areas are accessible for the Thorsborne Trail self-sufficient independent hiking. Camping permits are required and fees apply. A maximum stay of two (2) nights is permitted at each camping area, except for Mulligan Falls where the limit is one night. To help minimise impact and to maintain the remote and wild nature setting, permits are issued for a maximum of 12 people starting the trail per day. The largest independent hiker group size is six.

    Permits for the peak hiking season (April to September) are usually booked out as soon as they are released. Please use the booking system to process cancellations so other hikers can obtain places on the trail.

    The Thorsborne Trail self-sufficient independent hiking is booked through a seasonal release of permits. For more information visit Thorsborne Trail hiking seasons.

    The Thorsborne Trail Guided Walk provides an all-inclusive guided hiking tour experience of the Thorsborne Trail.

    Other accommodation

    There are several other camping areas on the island, not associated with the Thorsborne Trail. On the mainland there is a range of accommodation at Lucinda and Cardwell. For more information, see the tourism information links.

    Hiking

    The trail is a remote and challenging walking experience, in some areas, is rough and difficult to traverse. It is recommended, prior to hiking the trail, that all hikers obtain a copy of the QPWS Thorsborne Trail guide. See the tourism information links for trail guide locations.

    For detailed information, see Thorsborne Trail track notes.

    Fishing

    Fishing is prohibited in all freshwater streams, lagoons and creeks of Hinchinbrook Island National Park. The island and the surrounding marine waters are internationally significant and are protected in the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area. Zones in the two marine parks—the Great Barrier Reef Coast and Great Barrier Reef—provide a balanced approach to protecting the marine and intertidal environments while allowing recreational and commercial use. Check zoning maps and information before entering or conducting any activities in the marine parks.

    Be aware that crocodiles can turn up anywhere in croc country, including tidal reaches of rivers, along beaches, on offshore islands and cays in the Great Barrier Reef and Torres Strait, and in freshwater lagoons, rivers, and swamps. Crocodiles are dangerous and attacks can be fatal. Remember to be crocwise in croc country. Check QWildlife for iOS and Android before you visit the island to be aware of recent crocodile sightings. Report crocodile sightings using the QWildlife app to help determine crocodile presence and movement in the area. This will help other visitors by informing them of crocodile presence.