Porcupine Gorge National Park Outback Queensland

Photo credit: John Augusteyn © Queensland Government

Things to do

    Photo of the path along Pyramid walking track

    Pyramid walking track. Be careful on the uneven surfaces.

    Photo credit: Queensland Government

    Camping and accommodation

    Camping

    Camping is available at the Pyramid camping area. All bookings for camp sites must be made prior to visiting the park, and well in advance during peak season (April to October).

    Camping permits are required and fees apply.

    Other accommodation

    There are motels and caravan parks at Hughenden. For more information see the tourism information links.

    Walking

    Hike down into Porcupine Gorge on the Pyramid track or stretch your legs on a stroll through the woodlands on the Rim walk. Or simply enjoy a picnic lunch and catch a stunning view from a lookout. When out walking, remember to follow the Parks and forests walk with care guidelines.

    Map: Pyramid camping area map (PDF, 185.9KB)

    Pyramid walking track

    Grade 4
    Distance: 2.4km return
    Time: allow 1.5hr
    Details: Starting from the day-use area the Pyramid walking track descends steeply to the bottom Porcupine Gorge. Take the opportunity to explore the surrounds of the gorge floor and Porcupine Creek. The return journey to the top is back along the same walking track. Take your time and allow for frequent breaks to admire the landscape. Carry adequate drinking water, wear sun protection and sturdy ankle-supporting footwear. This walk requires a reasonable level of fitness as the terrain is uneven in places, has steep sections and steps. Remember to walk in the cooler times of the day and heed all safety advice.

    Pyramid lookout

    Grade 3
    Distance: 400m circuit
    Time: Allow 30mins walking
    Details: This short easy circuit walk loops around the Pyramid day-use area. Take a pleasant stroll through open woodland to the Pyramid lookout. Catch a stunning view of the surrounding landscape and marvel at the national park’s geology.

    Rim walk

    Grade 3
    Distance: 2.6km return
    Time: 1hr
    Details: The trailhead for the Rim walk is located at the northern end of the camping area. Stroll along the top of the gorge through an undulating landscape of woodlands and spinifex to arrive at a viewpoint. Take in a sweeping vista of the gorge and Porcupine Creek—from here you can see 2km downstream to the Pyramid!

    Gorge lookout

    Grade 2 (wheelchair accessible with assistance)
    Distance: 200m return
    Time: 20mins
    Details: Located 1.5km from the Kennedy Developmental Road and 11km from the Pyramid camping area this short walk starts and finishes from the Gorge lookout car park. Stroll down a gentle incline to the lookout and enjoy panoramic views across the gorge and down into Porcupine Creek. Learn about this ancient landscape. Please heed all safety advice.

    Photo of flock of red-tailed black cockatoo flyingOpen larger image

    Flocks of red-tailed black cockatoos are often seen in the woodlands surrounding the gorge.

    Photo credit: Linda Thompson © Queensland Government

    Picnic and day-use areas

    Enjoy a picnic at the Pyramid day-use area. Wheelchair-accessible toilets (assistance may be required) and sheltered picnic tables are provided.

    Viewing wildlife

    The gorge, with its many permanent waterholes, provides an important refuge for and attracts a wide variety of animals. Some are permanent residents, but others only appear in the dry season. Birds are abundant so remember to bring your binoculars and a camera!

    See the description of the national park’s natural environment for more details about the wildlife of Porcupine Gorge.