Carnarvon Gorge is the Queensland version of the Grand Canyon.
A breathtaking natural wonder characterized by rugged sandstone cliffs that rise for hundreds of meters, lush greenery, and crystal-clear waterways.
There are several reasons why you should visit Carnarvon Gorge. This article will go through each one individually and is sure to have you brushing off your hiking boots for an incredible hiking trip like never before.
Why Should I Visit Carnarvon Gorge?
Firstly, the natural beauty of the area is just out of this world, with some stunning landscapes and impressive rock formations to discover.
It is also a place of significant cultural importance to the Aboriginal people of the region, who have lived here for thousands of years. The proof is in the Aboriginal rock art sites – the Art Gallery, and Cathedral Cave, home to some of Australia’s best Indigenous art.
Hiking Carnarvon Gorge was one of our favourite experiences in Australia, and it is one of the best hikes we’ve ever done in the world!
It does take a bit of a road trip to get to the gorge, but once you arrive and sight the remote and rugged landscape you will realize it was worth the effort!
Let’s show you why.
The Best Things To Do In Carnarvon Gorge
Let’s waste no time to find out what are the best things to do in Carnarvon Gorge.
1. Best Things To Do In Carnarvon Gorge: Hiking
For most people, the number one reason why they visit Carnarvon Gorge is the many scenic hikes that are available. The gorge is renowned for its picturesque walking tracks and there are many trails available, such as the Main Gorge Track which has many more short tracks branching off from the main track.
Some of the most popular ones are – Moss Garden Walk, Amphitheatre Walk, and the magnificent Boolimba Bluff Track.
Carnarvon Gorge Hikes: The Main Gorge Track
The Main Gorge Track is one of the most popular and scenic walking trails in Carnarvon Gorge. It is approximately 10 kilometers long, offering a moderate to challenging hike with some steep sections and uneven terrain.
You will start near the Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Centre and simply follow the well-signed track that leads one way and back. Along the way, you will have opportunities to follow other tracks that lead off the main track. We will go into more detail below.
Altogether the hike takes about 4-5 hours one way (10 kilometers), depending on your pace, and stops at various spots.
So be aware that it is a long day, so carry enough water and food. Once you reach the return point of the Big Bend Camping Area you will start your return. Along the way, you will come across other tracks such as:
Carnarvon Gorge Hikes: The Moss Garden walk
The Moss Garden in Carnarvon Gorge is a natural green oasis that is one of the main highlights along the Main Gorge Track.
It is a small and secret garden in the gorge that is easily recognizable by the abundant moss and ferns covering the sandstone walls and rocks. The gentle trickle of water flowing through the area adds to the serenity and peaceful ambiance of the Moss Garden
To reach the Moss Garden, hikers must walk along the Main Gorge Track for nearly 5 kilometers from the starting point at the Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Centre. The walk to the Moss Garden takes you through beautiful landscapes and diverse vegetation, making it an enjoyable journey in itself.
Carnarvon Gorge Hikes: The Amphitheater
Next up on the main trail is The Amphitheatre which is about a kilometer past the Moss Garden.
Once you arrive at the Amphitheatre, you are greeted by a massive semi-circular rock wall that encloses a natural basin. To enter you must climb up the stairs and walk through a huge crack.
The towering sandstone cliffs rise dramatically on all sides, creating an enclosed and intimate space reminiscent of an ancient amphitheater, hence the name.
Visitors are encouraged to take their time and sit quietly in the Amphitheatre, absorbing the enchanting ambiance and taking in the spectacular natural surroundings.
It’s an ideal spot to take a break and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere before continuing on your hike. Another option here is to be creative and play with the natural light that shines through the crack.
Carnarvon Gorge Hikes: Boowinda Gorge
Just before you reach the end of the trail of the Main Gorge Walk you will come across the Boolimba Bluff Track.
Only if you are camping at The Big Bend or are superfit and started early you should consider walking this entire trail.
To reach Battleship Spur lookout, hikers need to take this steep and challenging track which can add a lot of extra time to your already long trek.
It is possible to hike a section of the trail that resembles a set from the Lord of the Rings movie. This particular part of the trail which cuts through the rock is only 500 meters.
If you do hike to this entire new trail, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views at Battleship Spur. The vantage point allows you to admire the rugged landscapes and the vastness of the Queensland wilderness.
Carnarvon Gorge Hikes: The Carnarvon Gorge Great Walk
For hardcore hikers, this is the one for you! An 87-kilometer trail that links the Carnarvon Gorge and Mount Moffat parks.
To hike this trail you should allow yourself 5 to 7 days and must be fully self-sufficient for the entire time. The walk is closed from the start of November to the end of February due to the summer heat.
Carnarvon Gorge Hikes: Boolimba Bluff
Don’t get confused between Boolimba Bluff and Boowinda Gorge!
The Booliba Bluff is a lookout with spectacular views over Carnarvon Gorge and the surrounding National Park. To reach the lookout, you’ll need to climb nearly 900 steps and ladders, which will definitely get your heart pumping. It’s a great way to warm up on those chilly winter mornings!
The hike is around 8 kilometers altogether with many hikers starting in the early hours to witness the sun rise over the park. Depending on your fitness level it will take at least one hour to climb to the top, so allow yourself plenty of time if you are one of those early risers.
2. Best Things To Do In Carnarvon Gorge: Aboriginal Rock Art
The Australian Aboriginals have lived in this area for a long time as proven in the rock art sites which are thought to have been in use for at least 3600 years!
There is even evidence of proof of life found in caves in Carnarvon Gorge which goes back over 19.000 years.
Take a journey into the past by visiting the Baloon Cave and Art Gallery Walk, where you can observe some of this ancient Aboriginal rock art.
It is also possible to join guided cultural talks and tours to learn about the Aboriginal heritage and history of the region from local Aboriginal guides.
3. Best Things To Do In Carnarvon Gorge: Wildlife Spotting
Carnarvon Gorge is a wildlife lovers’ paradise, home to many kangaroos and wallabies who freely roam around the woods and campsites.
At nighttime, you may even hear dingos howling out to each other.
There is also an abundance of many bird species like colorful parrots, and cockatoos. The cockatoos will most definitely let you know when they have woken up in the morning time!
4. Best Things To Do In Carnarvon Gorge: Stargazing
If you love stargazing then you will love the nighttime skies in Carnarvon Gorge.
Because there is hardly any light pollution in the area it is one of the best places to stare into the galaxy and find the core of the Milky Way cutting right across the sky.
The always impressive-looking Scorpius, and of course Crux. Also known as the Southern Cross which is pictured on the flag of Australia.
If you ever have any questions about stargazing and finding stars then please feel free to leave a comment!
Getting to Carnarvon Gorge
Now you have decide to visit this fascinating Australian gem, lets figure out the “getting to Carnarvon Gorge” part.
Carnarvon Gorge is located in remote central Queensland, Australia and it is part of the Carnarvon National Park.
Getting to Carnarvon Gorge typically requires some effort, but it’s well worth it for the experiences you’ll have once you arrive. There are several different routes to getting to Carnarvon Gorge, all depending on where your journey starts.
- From Brisbane – Carnarvon National Park lies approximately 720 kilometers northwest of Brisbane. Getting to the gorge from the state capital is an 8-hour drive through the outback via towns such as Toowoomba, and Roma.
- From Mackay – We lived in Mackay for 6 years and visited Carnarvon Gorge on a long weekend. The drive is over 600 kilometers and will take over 7 hours. To shorten this road trip we would recommend a stop for the night at Blackdown Tableland National Park, which is roughly halfway. Another stunning natural landmark with a 900-meter sandstone plateau rising up from the plains with many hikes, swimming holes, and waterfalls available. A spectacular view to look at from ground level, But also spectacular and panoramic views when looking out from the top.
- From Rockhampton – The closest city nearby is Rockhampton, and to drive to Carnarvon Gorge from “Rocky” usually takes around 4.5 – hours. If you are on a Brisbane to Cairns road trip, then we would advise this route with a stop off at Blackdown Tableland National Park on your way to the Gorge.
As you see there are many different ways of getting to Carnarvon Gorge. Depending on the route you choose, the drive may take your journey on unsealed roads which can be challenging, especially after heavy rainfall. If you are NOT driving a 4×4 just stick to the main roads!
Make sure to fill up on fuel. Injune and Rolleston are the last stops for fuel before heading towards Carnarvon Gorge.
When is the Best Time To Visit Carnarvon Gorge?
The best time to visit Carnarvon Gorge is during the cooler months, which run from April to October.
These months provide more pleasant weather conditions for hiking and exploring the gorge without the extreme heat of the Australian summer. However, at night time the temperatures can get quite cool, even close to the zero degrees mark, so make sure to bring plenty of warm gear with you as well.
Visiting during the cooler months also means avoiding the hot and humid conditions of the Australian summer, which occur from November to March.
Summers can be scorching, with temperatures exceeding 30°C and there’s a higher chance of rainfall. Additionally, keep in mind that school holidays can also be extremely busy.
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Carnarvon Gorge Accommodation: Where To Stay
The Carnarvon National Park offers various accommodation options for visitors who want to experience the beauty of the gorge over multiple days.
There are two main types of Carnarvaon Gorge accommodation available – camping and safari cabins.
There are several designated camping areas within the national park where you can set up tents or park your camper. This is the cheapest option and the camping facilities are relatively basic and include amenities such as toilets, cold showers, and barbecues.
The most popular campgrounds are The National Park Campsite and Sandstone Campsite which offers some epic views and plenty of wildlife.
We stayed at Sandstone, which is also open all year round compared to The National Park campsite which is only open for Easter, winter, and spring school holidays.
It is possible to hike the gorge and stay overnight, making your way back the following morning. The Big Bend Walkers Camping Area is the return point for many people hiking Carnarvon Gorge.
This is a small camping area with basic facilities but is open all year round. There is a nearby swimming hole where you can cool off after completing your day-long hike.
If camping isn’t your thing, then no problem! There are private lodges and cabins located near the gorge, offering more comfortable accommodations compared to camping.
This is the more expensive option. These lodges typically come with modern amenities, including hot showers, and comfortable beds.
Visit Carnarvon Gorge: Final Points
Carnarvon Gorge offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural significance, and outdoor activities and is a must-visit destination in Australia.
Whether you’re an adventure seeker or someone who appreciates the tranquility of nature, this unique gorge has something to offer to every traveler. Here are a few last things you should know.
- Please note that dogs are generally not permitted in most National Parks in Australia, so it’s best to leave your furry friend at home.
- Before entering the Carnarvon Gorge National Park, it’s important to ensure you have enough fuel, water, and food as there are no shops or fuel stations nearby.
- It’s also a good idea to check your car engine oil levels before embarking on your journey……So we’ve heard….
- When going for a hike, we always put Vaseline on our feet to avoid any blisters.
- Be sure to bring all the essentials which are: plenty of water (Minimum of 2 to 3 liters, depending on time of the year), food, and sun protection such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- Leave any unnecessary items at your campsite or lodge, remember that if you pack it, you carry it!
- Lastly, despite what you may have seen on Home & Away, Australia isn’t always warm and sunny. Nights can get very cold, so make sure to pack additional warm gear like woolly hats and gloves.
Enjoy Carnarvon Gorge!
Enjoy your hiking adventure in Carnarvon Gorge.
If you decide to visit Carnarvon Gorge then we would love to hear from you.
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