Carnarvon Gorge Revealed

Hidden in the rugged ranges of Outback Queensland just north of Injune QLD, Carnarvon Gorge features towering sandstone cliffs, vibrantly coloured side gorges, diverse flora and fauna and Aboriginal rock art. Whether you enjoy a guided tour experience or take one of the many self- guided walks, you will be captivated by the abundance of native wildlife and the rare wilderness on offer at Carnarvon Gorge.

What To Do

19.4km return (7–8 hours) – A natural pool in Carnarvon Creek lies in an elbow of the gorge beneath looming sandstone walls. Rest here in the shade of large spotted gums and watch catfish and turtles swim in the tranquil waters of the upper reaches of Carnarvon Creek. A composting toilet and picnic table is located here.

18.4km return (5–6 hours) – Rock-hop into this sculpted side-gorge, 100m upstream of Cathedral Cave. The first kilometre of this boulder-strewn gorge is the most spectacular.

18.2km return (5–6 hours) – This massive, wind-eroded overhang sheltered Aboriginal people for thousands of years. A panorama of rock art reflects the rich cultural life of those who gathered here.

10.8km return (3–4 hours)- Over two thousand engravings, ochre stencils and freehand paintings adorn the 62m-long sandstone walls of this significant Aboriginal site. 

9.2km return (3–4 hours) –  a cool place to visit on a hot day, this walk offers a short, steep rise up through spotted gums leads to the lower falls and then further into the shaded canyon.

8.6km return (3–4 hours) – Hidden inside the walls of the gorge is a 60m deep chamber, gouged from the rock by running water. The towering sandstone walls and natural skylight create an awe-inspiring atmosphere within.

7km return (2–3 hours) – Water drips constantly from the sandstone walls of the Moss Garden, supporting a lush carpet of mosses, ferns and liverworts. Beneath tree ferns straining for sunlight, a small waterfall tumbles over a rock ledge into an icy pool.

6.4km return (2–3 hours) – Discover what lies above the cliff line and gaze out to distant ranges at Boolimba Bluff, which towers 200m above Carnarvon Creek. This is the only formed lookout track from the gorge. No other track passes through such a diversity of habitats. Early morning is the best time for this walk. The track involves steps, steep sections and one very steep section with 300m of steps and short ladders.

To experience a completely different part of the Carnarvon Ranges join a Boobook Ecotour and explore the hidden wonders and secluded gorges, Aboriginal rock art, dinosaur plants, and enchanting wildlife with exclusive access to a 72,000 acre working cattle station.

A locally owned tour company with more than twenty years experience, they offer a range of tours that the reveal the hidden wonders of Carnarvon Gorge’s landscapes and wildlife.

If you’ve done the short walks around the main gorge, tackle the challenge of the full distance (87km). This six or seven-day circuit links both the Carnarvon Gorge and Mount Moffatt Section of the Carnarvon National Park.

Enjoy views from the highest plateau in Queensland and see significant Aboriginal rock art sites with sculpted sandstone outcrops rising above tree lines.

Within Carnarvon Gorge –  a very popular activity and all tracks are fully signposted and lead either from the main access road to the park visitor centre, or from the main walking track that starts in the Carnarvon Gorge visitor area. To make the most of your time and to help plan your walking adventure we recommend visiting the QPWS website.

Explore

Mickey Creek Gorge—3km return (1.5 hours) Wander along Mickey Creek and into narrow side gorges where the walking track becomes a rock-hopping adventure. Swamp wallabies are often seen resting here. Rocky sections of this track are slippery and caution is needed on creek crossings.

Rock Pool—600m return (30 minutes) The Rock Pool has been carved from the bed of Carnarvon Creek by the turbulent water of past floods. Rest in the shade of fig and casuarina trees and watch for platypus and turtles. The picnic area includes toilets and picnic tables. This is the only place in Carnarvon Gorge designated for swimming.

Nature trail—1.5km return (1 hour)This short stroll along the shady banks of Carnarvon Creek provides a snapshot of the plant life on the gorge floor. You can see turtles basking in the sun, and if you’re quiet enough you may see the elusive platypus. Dusk and dawn provide the best opportunities for watching wildlife.

There’s more than meets the eye in Roma – come and visit and let us reveal the treasures of Roma and the surrounding region.

Where to Stay

Farm Stays

Kenniff’s Gang Bush Camp

Mt Moffatt QLD 4465

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10km from Mt Moffatt National Park

Cabins, Caravan Parks & Camping

Carnarvon Gorge – Breeze Holiday Park

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(07) 4984 4535

Cabins, Caravan Parks & Camping

National Park Camping

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13 7468

Cabins, Caravan Parks & Camping

Sandstone Park

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1800 874 444

Cabins Only

Carnarvon Gorge – Wilderness Lodge

4034 Obriens Road, Carnarvon Park QLD 4702

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07 4984 4503