| At a Glance | |
|---|---|
| Location | Carnarvon Gorge, Queensland (between Emerald and Roma) |
| Walk Distance | 6.4 km return (side track 2.2 km) |
| Walk Grade | Grade 4 – Experienced bushwalkers only |
| Best Time to Visit | April to September |
| Facilities | Visitor Centre 5.9 km from park entrance (unsealed road) |
| Camping Options | National park campground, caravan park or farm stay |
| In Camps App | Yes – Find camping options in the Camps App |
Boolimba Bluff is in the Carnarvon Gorge section of Carnarvon National Park half way between Emerald and Roma.
The walk itself is a 6.4 km return to the steep slopes above Carnarvon Creek with views to distant ranges. Named the ‘Roof of Queensland’ these plateaus are the source of many of the state’s rivers.
You walk about 1 km along the main track, before you arrive at start of a 2.2. km side track – and warnings.
There are a lot of steps and rocky sections, and yes – the sign does not lie – it is STEEP! It is classified Grade 4 for “experienced bushwalkers” – with rough tracks, loose surfaces, cliff edges.
As we were warned, we did not attempt this walk first thing, but continued four kilometres further to the Art Gallery. Stopping in at each attraction on the way back, we clocked up at least 16 km before we even took the turnoff!
We were told, many people who climb up to the bluff first, arrive back to the main track , worn out! They decide to leave the main walk for another day. So glad we left it for last, even though it was a huffing, puffing challenge.
When we were there we met hikers returning from the remote Carnarvon Great Walk trail, an 87 km, week long, grade 5 trek – open March to October. It’s a grade 5 trek which means it is for very experienced bushwalkers. A high level of fitness and map reading skills are required, and signage is limited.
Before you come to the side track, the main gorge walking track crisscrosses the creek each time with stepping stones. This track is only Grade 3, suitable for most ages and fitness levels. They may have short steep sections and many steps. Caution needed on creek crossings (and be warned, there are plenty!), ladders and lookouts.
Start at the Visitor Centre, 5.9km by an unsealed road from the park entrance. Look out for the whiptail wallabies – we saw them at the picnic area.
Best time to visit: April – September
What to bring:
- ankle supporting footwear
- water (lots, you’ll need it)
- lunch/snacks
- coat/leggings if you leave early morning as we did (it was very chilly!)
- togs in warmer months
- first aid kit
- sun protection
- insect repellent
- camera!
- binoculars would be handy, too
You can camp at a national park campground, a caravan park or a farm stay! Find them in the Camps 11, CAMPS Pendium, Caravan Parks books or the Camps Australia Wide App.
Download the Camps App for iPhone/iPad or Android
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is the Boolimba Bluff walk?
It’s a Grade 4 walk classified for experienced bushwalkers only. The track features steep sections, lots of steps, rocky terrain, loose surfaces and cliff edges. The signs warning about the difficulty are accurate – it’s a huffing, puffing challenge!
Should I do Boolimba Bluff first or save it for last?
Definitely save it for last. Many hikers who tackle the bluff first arrive back at the main track completely worn out and leave the main gorge walk for another day. It’s recommended to walk the 4 km to the Art Gallery first, then do Boolimba Bluff on your return.
What’s the best time of year to visit Carnarvon Gorge?
The best time to visit is April to September. The Carnarvon Great Walk trail is only open March to October.
What should I bring for the walk?
You’ll need ankle supporting footwear, plenty of water, lunch and snacks, sun protection, insect repellent, first aid kit and a camera. If walking early morning, bring a coat and leggings as it can be very chilly. In warmer months, bring togs for creek crossings. Binoculars are also handy.
How do I get to the walking track?
Start at the Visitor Centre, which is 5.9 km from the park entrance via an unsealed road. The Boolimba Bluff side track starts about 1 km along the main gorge track.
Are there creek crossings on the walk?
Yes, the main gorge walking track crisscrosses the creek multiple times with stepping stones. There are plenty of creek crossings requiring caution, plus ladders and lookouts along the way.
Where can I camp near Carnarvon Gorge?
You can camp at a national park campground, a caravan park or a farm stay. Find them in the Camps App.
Can I see wildlife at Carnarvon Gorge?
Yes, whiptail wallabies are commonly seen around the picnic area near the Visitor Centre.
