Best trails in Carnarvon National Park
The Carnarvon National Park is located in the Maranoa Region of Central Queensland. Its landscape is made of tall sandstone cliffs, gorges, sandy valleys, basalt capped tablelands and bush forests that are home to a variety of fauna and flora. 210 bird species and about 60 species of mammals make the park their home, as Carnarvon Gorge inside the Carnarvon National Park is a place of great Indigenous significance to the Bidgera people. The Dreamtime stories say that it was Mundagurra, the rainbow serpent, who carved the gorge as he travelled the creek system. The area is ideal for, bushwalking, trail running and backpacking.
Top trails
Trail reviews for Carnarvon National Park
Moss Garden Walk – Carnarvon Gorge Today I ventured along the 7 km return track to the beautiful Moss Garden in Carnarvon Gorge. The walk was easy and peaceful, with a cool and refreshing temperature of 13°C – perfect for a day of exploring nature. As I continued through the track and entered the shaded sanctuary of Violet Gorge, the temperature dropped to a crisp 10°C, adding to the serene atmosphere. Inside the gorge, I was greeted by towering sandstone walls, glistening with fresh water trickling down from hidden cracks above. The sandstone was blanketed in soft, lush green moss, creating a living tapestry of texture and life. At the heart of the Moss Garden lies a stunning waterfall that flows gracefully from a rockpool perched above, its gentle cascade adding a soothing rhythm to the surroundings. A beautifully constructed boardwalk leads up to the viewing area, complete with steps, handrails, and benches that invite you to pause and take it all in. I sat quietly in this magical place, embraced by the peace and tranquility of the natural world around me. It was a moment of spiritual connection – listening to the delicate sound of dripping water, birdsong in the distance, and the stillness that only places like this can offer. The Moss Garden is truly a hidden gem, a cool, green oasis that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with nature.
Trail Name: Mickey Creek Gorge & Warrumbah Creek Gorge Location: Carnarvon Gorge, Queensland, Australia Distance: 7 km return Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Trail Type: Out & Back Estimated Time: 2.5–3 hours Elevation Gain: Minimal, with some uneven creek beds ⸻ Trail Overview Tucked deep within Queensland’s breathtaking Carnarvon Gorge, the walk into Mickey Creek Gorge and Warrumbah Creek Gorge is an unforgettable journey through ancient landscapes, towering cliffs, and tranquil forest-lined creeks. This 7 km return walk begins easily along a well-formed track that meanders gently through open forest. Early on, you’ll cross a few stony creek beds—mostly shallow and manageable, though footing can be uneven. As you enter Mickey Creek Gorge, the trail gradually transforms from a simple stroll into a more adventurous, immersive experience. Beyond the maintained path, the real magic begins. The gorge narrows as you follow the creek between massive sandstone cliffs, where time and water have carved a breathtaking passageway. The further you go, the more the noise of the world falls away—replaced by the hush of flowing water and the echo of your own footsteps. Mosses and ferns cling to the cool sandstone walls where shafts of sunlight filter down from high above, creating an ethereal atmosphere. It’s here, in these quiet, shaded spaces, that we felt most at peace—enveloped by the ancient stillness of the land. Warrumbah Creek Gorge offers a more adventurous offshoot. With no formed path, you’ll be boulder-hopping and squeezing through narrow passageways. While not technically difficult, it does require sure footing and a sense of curiosity. It’s well worth the extra effort for those wanting to explore deeper into this dramatic terrain. ⸻ Highlights • Narrow gorges with dramatic cliff walls • Moss- and fern-covered rock formations • Shaded, peaceful walking environment • Unique creek crossings and natural acoustics • Wildlife sightings possible (including birds and lizards) ⸻ Tips for Hikers • Wear sturdy shoes with good grip, especially beyond the main track • Creek crossings may be slippery after rain—take care • Carry plenty of water and snacks • Best explored during cooler parts of the day • Phone signal may be limited—let someone know your plans ⸻ Final Thoughts The Mickey and Warrumbah Creek Gorges walk is more than just a hike—it’s a peaceful, almost spiritual experience through some of Carnarvon Gorge’s lesser-traveled corners. Perfect for those seeking a deeper connection to the landscape, this walk offers beauty, solitude, and a sense of ancient wonder at every step.
I had the most peaceful and soul-nourishing walk today in Carnarvon Gorge. It’s a 22 km return track to Big Bend, and the weather was perfect — a cool 17°C most of the way, then dropping to 12°C inside the gorge. I did the Moss Garden yesterday so I never did that today, however the others were spectacular. The track is well marked with steps in place along steep sections, stoney creek crossings and some bridges, lovely boardwalks with steps and seating, so I took time to sit, reflect, and just listen… the sound of water, the stillness of nature — it felt deeply grounding and spiritual. A truly special place I won’t forget.
From the Carnarvon NP Visitor centre we planned a long day walk to Battleship Spur. 32 km round trip with some side trips. Its quite easy walking up to Cathedral Cave. After that take the river bed walk to the turn off to Boowinda Gorge.Battleship Spur track leads off from here. The goat track was challenging. It gets steep, track is overgrown and you are up to your hips with long grass. The view from BS is good but you are not close to the canyon in the distance.
“HIKE WITH MAREE” GUIDES HIKERS AROUND THE CARNARVON GREAT WALK EACH MAY AND AUGUST, Taking 8 hikers per hike. So much fun, secure safe way to do this hike.
Skips a day of the Carnarvon Great Walk. Awesome if you are trying to hurey a little and don't mind missing our on some views.
Headed to a park?
Take AllTrails with you
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to hike in Carnarvon National Park?
What is the longest trail in Carnarvon National Park?
How many trails are in Carnarvon National Park?
Which trail has the most elevation gain in Carnarvon National Park?
Are there camping trails available in Carnarvon National Park?
Are there running trails available in Carnarvon National Park?
Are there any trails with scenic mountain peak views in Carnarvon National Park?
Are there any trails with scenic viewpoints in Carnarvon National Park?
Activities
Points of interest
- West Branch Camping Area
- Boowinda Gorge
- Boolimba Bluff
- The Looking Glass
- The Chimneys
- Cathedral Cave
- Battleship Spur Lookout
- Consuelo camping zone
- Rock Pool
- West Branch Walkers' Camp
- Big Bend Walkers' Camp
- Battleship Spur
- Platypus viewing dusk & dawn
- Art Gallery
- Cathedral Rock
- Ward's Canyon
- Moss Garden
- Cabbage Tree Camping Zone
- The Tombs Rock Art
- Amphitheatre