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Best trails in Barron Gorge National Park

Best trails in Barron Gorge National Park

4.2(2,127 reviews)

·

Australia
: 
#60 of 637 national parks

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Barron Gorge is a formidable park reaching from the table lands all the way to the coast, divided by the Barron River. The dominant feature of this popular park is the Barron River, which winds from the tablelands down to the coast. One of the main attractions is Barron Falls, a tiered series of falls that drop 265m to the gorge below. Below the falls is the Barron Gorge Hydro-Power Station, Australia's first underground power station created in 1935 to harness the power of the falls. Visitors can enjoy a large variety of hiking trails and also ride the park's scenic railway and cableway.

Top trails

  1. #1 - Glacier Rock Lookout

    4.6(972)
    ·Hard
    ·4.4 mi
    ·Est. 3–3.5 hr
    This is a fantastic walk that is a must-do while in Cairns. There is a great variety in this walk, including rainforest, creeks and nice views. It is worth the effort to start early or go late to avoid the heat on the climb which is decent, and this means you could also catch a sunset or sunrise from the top. This route is an undulating well-signed rainforest walk that features dense vegetation of the Barron Gorge National Park. The walking trail networks in this region were formed by the...

  2. #2 - Weir, Douglas, Glacier Rock, Gandal Wandun, and Smiths Track Loop

    4.4(187)
    ·Hard
    ·8.2 mi
    ·Est. 5–5.5 hr
    Rugged rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic views over Cairns make this loop a true tropical adventure. Situated in the Barron Gorge National Park, this challenging circuit combines several historic tracks into one immersive journey. It’s a track that demands respect; the humidity can be stifling, and the steep gradients on Smiths Track are sure to test your legs, so carrying plenty of water (at least 3 litres) is non-negotiable. The route is well-signposted but keeps you on your...

  3. #3 - Stoney Creek Falls via Small Waterfall

    4.0(140)
    ·Hard
    ·1.7 mi
    Tropical rock pools and hidden cascades define this technical off-trail adventure through Barron Gorge National Park. This out-and-back route is a fantastic choice for those after a true wilderness experience, following the traditional lands of the Djabugay people past Old Weir Falls to a refreshing swimming hole at the "Small Waterfall." Be prepared for a challenging journey that involves mandatory boulder hopping and rock scrambling, which can become exceptionally slippery after rain. The...

  4. #4 - Stony Creek Garndal Garndal Weir Track

    4.3(103)
    ·Moderate
    ·1.1 mi
    Lush tropical rainforest and hidden swimming holes define this short but rewarding journey through the Barron Gorge National Park. Located just a short drive northwest of Cairns, the Stony Creek Weir Track (also known by its traditional name, Garndal Garndal) meanders alongside the crystal-clear waters of Stony Creek, leading you to a historic stone weir once used for the region's early water supply. The highlight of the trek is the series of pristine rock pools and small waterfalls found...

  5. #5 - Smiths Track to Stoney Creek Falls

    4.1(128)
    ·Hard
    ·4.5 mi
    ·Est. 4–4.5 hr
    Prepare for a proper leg-burner that rewards your effort with deep rainforest immersion and the thundering beauty of the falls. This route climbs relentlessly along the ridgeline, offering a fitness challenge that requires plenty of water and determination. Hiking poles are a smart addition to your kit, providing much-needed stability on the steep gradients where loose rocks and leaf litter can make footing tricky. Midway through the sweating and climbing, you can catch your breath at Toby's...

  6. #6 - Stoney Creek to Kuranda

    4.6(83)
    ·Hard
    ·14.8 mi
    ·Est. 8–8.5 hr
    Commencing at Stoney Creek Trailhead take shaded foot-trail McDonald's Track to Red Bluff and continue straight towards Kuranda. This section is mostly on a vehicle firetrack and is exposed to sun. This turns into Surprise Creek Track before arriving at Wright's Lookout. Follow sealed road into Kuranda from this point. Optional sidetrack to Barron Falls in this section. Steep in sections and would be muddy and very slippery after rain, considering distance could be done more enjoyably as a...

  7. #7 - Wrights Lookout to Glacier Rock Lookout

    4.2(68)
    ·Moderate
    ·7 mi
    ·Est. 4–4.5 hr
    A decent hike through the Barron Gorge National Park, located north east of Cairns and not too far from the town of Kuranda, Queensland. Starting at the Wright's Lookout this route follows a track beside the Barron Gorge, crossing creeks and leading you to the Glacier Rock lookout. There are some steep inclines and declines along the way. Once at Glacier Rock Lookout you're at a great place to take a rest and take in the view over Cairns and Mount Whitfield. Start the walk super early to...

  8. #8 - Glacier Rock Lookout via Douglas Track

    4.1(72)
    ·Moderate
    ·5.6 mi
    ·Est. 2.5–3 hr
    Vast panoramic views of the Cairns coastline and the rugged Barron Gorge define this exceptional journey through the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. The Glacier Rock Lookout via Douglas Track offers a slightly more accessible approach to this famous vantage point, starting from the Speewah Campground on the Atherton Tableland side rather than the steeper ascent from Stoney Creek below. The trail winds through lush rainforest and ancient cycad groves, utilising a mix of well-maintained...

  9. #9 - Gandal Wandun and Douglas Track

    4.1(85)
    ·Moderate
    ·4.7 mi
    ·Est. 2–2.5 hr
    Lush tropical rainforest and historic mountain paths define this journey through the heart of Barron Gorge National Park. Starting from the Speewah Campground, this loop combines the Gandal Wandun and Douglas tracks to offer a true immersion into the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. You will wander beneath a dense canopy of ancient ferns and towering trees, which provides a welcome escape from the heat. The terrain is a classic rainforest track, with plenty of surface roots and some steady...

  10. #10 - Glacier Rock and Stoney Creek Falls

    3.9(68)
    ·Hard
    ·10.9 mi
    ·Est. 6.5–7 hr
    This is an intense hike uphill through various woodlands and rainforests, then down to the lookout. There are plenty of points of interest in the Barron Gorge, including Glacier Rock, Stoney Creek Waterfall and Toby's Lookout. The trail features beautiful scenery and wildlife. Take some snacks and remember to bring plenty of water, especially during the summer months. Parking is available near the trailhead at the end of Stoney Creek Road.
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Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to hike in Barron Gorge National Park?

According to users from AllTrails.com, the best place to hike in Barron Gorge National Park is Glacier Rock Lookout, which has a 4.6 star rating from 972 reviews. This trail is 4.4 mi long with an elevation gain of 1,450 ft.

What is the longest trail in Barron Gorge National Park?

According to AllTrails.com, the longest trail in Barron Gorge National Park is Stoney Creek to Kuranda. This trail is estimated to be 14.8 mi long.

How many trails are in Barron Gorge National Park?

There are 16 trails in Barron Gorge National Park.These trails have an average 4.2-star ratingfrom NaN AllTrails community reviews.

Which trail has the most elevation gain in Barron Gorge National Park?

Mount Williams via Smiths Track has the most elevation gain with 3,474 ft of total ascent. The park's runner-up is Toby’s Lookout via Smith Track, which has 3,398 ft of elevation gain.

Are there running trails available in Barron Gorge National Park?

According to AllTrails.com, there are 7 running trails in Barron Gorge National Park and the most popular is Weir, Douglas, Glacier Rock, Gandal Wandun, and Smiths Track Loop with an average 4.4 star rating from 187 community reviews.

Are there any trails with waterfalls in Barron Gorge National Park?

Are there any trails with scenic mountain peak views in Barron Gorge National Park?

Yes, there is one trail with a scenic mountain peak view in Barron Gorge National Park: Mount Williams via Smiths Track.

Are there any trails with scenic viewpoints in Barron Gorge National Park?