Spend A Few Days In Queensland’s Stunning Carnarvon Gorge
If you’re searching for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Queensland, Carnarvon Gorge is likely on your radar. Known for its towering sandstone cliffs, lush forests, and ancient Indigenous rock art, this unique national park is a paradise for hikers, nature lovers, and history enthusiasts alike.
Planning a trip to Carnarvon Gorge can be overwhelming—when’s the best time to visit? What hikes are worth doing? How do you prepare for the remote location? With limited accommodation and almost no mobile reception, it’s crucial to have all the right information before you go.
Having explored this rugged wilderness a few times first-hand, I know what it takes to experience Carnarvon Gorge at its best. From hidden gems along the trails to essential tips for a smooth journey, this guide is packed with insights to help you make the most of your visit.
Whether you’re a seasoned trekker looking for your next challenge or a first-time visitor wanting to take in the scenery at a relaxed pace, this guide is for you. Carnarvon Gorge offers something for everyone, from short, scenic walks to full-day hikes that showcase its dramatic landscapes.
Location and Geographic Significance
Carnarvon Gorge is a hidden gem in Queensland’s heart. It’s about 720 km west of Brisbane. This place is a mix of natural beauty and cultural importance. It’s a great spot for those who love nature and adventure.
Carnarvon Gorge is in the Central Queensland Sandstone Belt. Its sandstone cliffs and greenery stand out against the flat plains. The gorge’s geology supports a variety of life, making it great for outdoor fun.
Aboriginal Cultural Heritage
The gorge is special to the Bidjara and Karingal people. It has many Aboriginal sites, and rock art galleries featuring indigenous cave paintings. The Art Gallery, a 62-meter wall, has over 2,000 ancient engravings and paintings.
Best Times to Visit
Visit Carnarvon Gorge from April to October for the best camping. The weather is cool, ideal for walking. Summer is hot, so hiking is much harder and you may find that some trails and accommodation options are closed over the summer months. Aim for a 2-3 day stay to enjoy everything.
- Main Gorge Walking Track: 20 km full hike
- Art Gallery: 10.8 km return hike
- Moss Garden: 7 km return hike
- Boolimba Bluff: 6.4 km return hike with 200 m elevation gain
Carnarvon Gorge is perfect for culture, wildlife, or just enjoying the views. Bring your camera for amazing photos of birds and clear skies.
Getting to Carnarvon Gorge
Carnarvon Gorge is about 720km west of Brisbane. It’s a bit of a trek, but trust me, it’s worth every kilometre! Its sealed road for most of the way and yes you can get all the way to the visitors centre in a 2WD car.
Typically, you would head west from Brisbane skirting Ipswich and Toowoomba and head all the way out until Roma where you turn north. From Injune, it’s about 100km to the Carnarvon Gorge turn-off where you will start the gravel.
Bundaberg folks have a shorter journey – roughly 420km as the crow flies. Remember, Emerald is your last major pit stop for supplies.
It took us about 9 and a half hours including a lunch and fuel stop. If you don’t have a car that has excellent fuel economy I would refuel at Injune. There are no fuel options once you leave Injune.
Good news! The road to Carnarvon Gorge is sealed except for the last 500 meters. You won’t need a 4WD – any conventional vehicle will do just fine. There are two upgraded crossings over Carnarvon Creek, so no worries about getting stuck.
Just keep an eye out for kangaroos, and avoid driving at night. It’s not worth it with the cattle and kangaroos on the road.
Driving is your best bet to reach Carnarvon Gorge. There’s no public transport, but some tour operators offer guided trips. If you’re keen to explore side attractions like Rolleston a little further north from the turn off, having your own wheels gives you more flexibility.
If you are splitting up the drive, from Roma or Emerald it takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, perfect for a day trip or the start of a longer adventure.
- No entry fee for Carnarvon Gorge National Park
- Camping permits ARE required for overnight stays
- Visitor Information Centre open daily 8 am to 4 pm (except Christmas Day)
Spectacular Walking Trails and Side Gorges
Carnarvon Gorge has amazing walking trails that show off its beauty. You can find short walks or long hikes, depending on what you like. Let’s look at some of the top trails and what makes them special.
| Trail | Distance (Return) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Main Gorge Walking Track | 19.4 km | 17 creek crossings, 7 side-tracks |
| Moss Garden | 7 km | Lush ferns and mosses, cool microclimate |
| The Amphitheatre | 8.6 km | 60m high sandstone chamber, unique acoustics |
| Wards Canyon | 9.2 km | Running creek with red rocks, an overhang and towering tree ferns |
| The Art Gallery | 10.8km | 1000+ stunning indigenous art works. |
Main Gorge Walking Track
The Main Gorge Walking Track is the main accessway to all of Carnarvon Gorge’s sights. It’s a 19.4km return trip that takes you through the gorge’s heart. You’ll see and cross stunning cliffs and clear creeks along the way.
There are 17 creek crossings and seven side-tracks to explore. It’s a journey you won’t forget. While the main track itself is pretty flat with just a few gradual ups and downs, some of the side trails do have stairs or event metal ladders.
The Moss Garden
The Moss Garden in Carnarvon Gorge is a sight to see. It’s a 650m detour from the main path. The area is cool and damp, perfect for ferns and mosses to thrive and thrive they do. Its a lovely walk in, but it does have quite a few stairs, however there is a boardwalk and seating area to have a rest once you get to the garden.
The Amphitheatre Experience
The amphitheatre in Carnarvon Gorge is incredible. It’s a 400m side trip that leads to a hidden chamber. The entrance is via a steel set of stairs that aren’t super wide. They are solid and its not a difficult climb but you do have to wait for others to come down so you aren’t crossing midway.
The 60-meter high sandstone cliffs create an amazing acoustic experience and again there is a sitting area for you to sit and appreciate the surroundings. We did a few Cooees but strangely its not super echoey. That’s probably not even a word but you know what I mean.
The Art Gallery
The Art Gallery is a must-see in Carnarvon Gorge. It features over 2,000 engravings, ochre stencils, and paintings on a 62-meter sandstone wall. This highlights the rich culture of the area’s Traditional Owners.
To see this cultural gem, take the Art Gallery walk from the Main gorge track. It’s a 300-meter walk that takes you back in time.
Aboriginal people first came to this site about 3,560 years ago. Some engravings are hundreds, maybe thousands, of years old. They are pretty epic, however – I first visited Carnarvon Gorge when I was 15 so I don’t really remember the quality of the indigenous art.
I visited again in 2020 and was very impressed by the quality of this artwork which is thousands of years old.
Our last trip in 2024 made me wonder if the art had been “touched up”. I’m not kidding they seemed way clearer and more colourful that just a few years before. I’m sure it was maybe the weather or some other outside influence but we all commented on how bright and clear they were.
These are the two pics side by side. Now to be clear I did try to align them in photoshop to get the best angle and comparison so they are inline on purpose but apart from that I’ve not done anything to them except adjust the brightness so they are close together in colouring.
The pic from 2020 does look way less intense than the one from 2024. Like I say, maybe it was lighting and the time of day but I did wonder!
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Age of Rock Art Sites | At least 3,650 years |
| Human Habitation (Kenniff’s Cave) | Dating back 19,500 years |
| Art Gallery Wall Length | 62 meters |
| Number of Art Pieces | Over 2,000 |
| Art Techniques | Engravings, ochre stencils, free-hand paintings |
The art uses many colors, with stencils in red, white, and mauve ochre. You’ll see tools, weapons, ornaments, and ceremonial objects. Look for the unique double-handed forearm stencils found only here.
Wards Canyon
This was one of my favourite places off the main trail. I think a lot of people miss it but it was beautiful. You do climb up quite a few stairs to get in there but it is worth it.
You have to step over the creek which is in places bright orange from what I assume is the tannins in the plants. Its pretty spectacular and a very cool thing to see. The overhang is huge and you can imagine indigenous meetings and celebrations happening in this really protected space.
If you’re short on time or have little ones, try the Nature Trail. It’s a 1.5km return walk from the visitors centre and great for families. It wanders alongside the main creek so the kids will love it.
Don’t forget to bring water, wear good shoes, and respect the environment.
The Boolimba Bluff Hike
I would recommend doing this hike on another day to the main trail. By the time you get out and back and see everything you want to that will be a full day.
While the Boolimba Bluff hike isn’t super hard, it is about 330m of elevation so you do tend to go a little slower. The view is spectacular but there are ladders and steep trails to contend with. Like I said – its not super hard at all, but its worth doing early one morning on a separate day.
Wildlife and Natural Wonders
Carnarvon Gorge is a dream spot for wildlife lovers. It’s a 300,000-hectare national park filled with diverse plants and animals. It’s a top pick for anyone who loves nature.
Native Flora and Fauna
The gorge is teeming with native species. You’ll see kangaroos and wallabies roaming around. Lucky visitors might spot an echidna or a yellow-bellied glider. The moss garden in Carnarvon Gorge is known for its unique plants.
Platypus Watching Spots
Seeing platypus in the wild is a highlight here. The best times to watch them are early morning or at dusk by the creek banks. Be quiet and patient for the best views. The Big4 Park has a special spot for Platypus spotting that guests of the park are able to access.
Bird Watching Opportunities
Over 200 bird species live in Carnarvon Gorge. You can see colourful parrots and majestic eagles. Bring your binoculars for a great bird watching experience.
| Wildlife Type | Common Species | Best Viewing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Mammals | Kangaroos, Wallabies, Possums | Dawn and Dusk |
| Birds | Parrots, Eagles, Kookaburras | Throughout the day |
| Aquatic Life | Platypus, Turtles | Early Morning, Late Afternoon |
For the best view of Carnarvon Gorge’s wonders, consider a guided tour. The Night Safari tour costs $40 per adult and is great for seeing nocturnal animals. The Lower Gorge Explorer tour at $75 per adult offers a full experience.
The last time we were there we left early in the morning (around 5am) and on the drive out of the gorge back to the highway we saw a Dingo, an Echidna and some Brolgas! It was epic!
Accommodation Options at Carnarvon Gorge
Camping Carnarvon Gorge has many lodging options for everyone. You can choose from rugged bush camping to cozy resorts. Find the perfect place to relax after a day of adventure.
Camping Facilities
The National Park campground is a favourite, welcoming up to 150 people during Queensland school holidays. Sandstone Park offers 41 drive-thru sites with amazing views of the gorge.
It costs $39 per night for two guests, making it a budget-friendly choice for those who like to camp on their own. You must be fully self contained to camp here though. There are no facilities. We camped here once with our motorhome and it was great.
They are also the only place that I know of close to the park that will take dogs. You do have to leave them in the kennels or in a very shady spot under your own vehicle to go into the national park but you can at least keep them on site.
Lodge and Resort Options
BIG4 Breeze Holiday Park Carnarvon Gorge has various accommodations, including self-contained studios and glamping safari tents. It’s set on 100 acres in the national park and has a Bush Bar. You might even see platypuses.
We stayed there on the way into the gorge and loved it. They have everything from camp sites, to van sites to glamping tents.
The Carnarvon Gorge Wilderness Lodge is just 3 km from major walks. It’s a seasonal retreat with priority for restaurant bookings. I stayed here the last few nights and loved it. The accommodation are like permanent tents and are super comfortable. The restaurant is open most nights (its closed Monday from memory) and the food is good.
Like anywhere remote the meals aren’t cheap but they aren’t priced terribly and they are very nice.
Bush Camping at Big Bend
Big Bend campground is for the bold. You’ll need to carry your gear 10 km up the Main Track since there’s no vehicle access. It’s a true outback adventure for those up for the challenge.
| Accommodation | Capacity | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|
| National Park Campground | 150 people | Open during school holidays |
| Sandstone Park | 41 sites | 360-degree gorge views |
| BIG4 Breeze Holiday Park | Various | Year-round availability |
| Wilderness Lodge | Limited | Close to major walks |
| Big Bend Campground | Limited | Remote bush experience |
Essential Tips for Your Visit
Are you planning a trip to Carnarvon Gorge Queensland? Here are some tips to make your visit special. First, pack wisely. The weather can change a lot, getting very hot in summer and cold in winter. So, bring clothes for all seasons, sunscreen, and a hat with a wide brim.
Don’t forget to bring lots of water. It’s important, as you’ll be walking a lot. The 19 km return track is just one example. You’ll likely walk 15-17 km during your stay.
When to go is key. The best time is from April to September when it’s cooler. Try to avoid December to March, as it’s stormy. Also, book your place to stay early, like for camping, during school holidays.
| Item | Importance | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Water | Critical | Large refillable bottle or camelback |
| Sunscreen | High | SPF 50+ recommended |
| Sturdy shoes | Essential | For long hikes and uneven terrain |
| First-aid kit | Important | Include insect repellent |
| Map | Useful | Limited mobile coverage in the area |
Lastly, always respect the environment. Carnarvon Gorge is home to many animals, including 173 bird species, 60 mammals, and 90 reptiles. Let’s keep it beautiful for everyone to enjoy in the future.
Photography and Viewing Points
Carnarvon Gorge is a dream for photographers. It’s full of amazing shots that will keep you clicking all day.
Boolimba Bluff at dawn is magical. It’s 200 meters above Carnarvon Creek, the only lookout in the gorge. The sunrise colours are stunning. It’s a 3.5-kilometer walk back, but the views are worth it.
However: Don’t attempt this hike at night unless you are an experienced bush walker and have a great headlamp. Its rocks, sand, ladders and isn’t to be taken lightly.
The Amphitheatre Carnarvon Gorge is a must-see. Its 60-meter drop and rock formations are perfect for photos. The Art Gallery is also a highlight, with over 2,000 Aboriginal artworks on 62 meters of walls. Ward’s Canyon has the world’s largest fern, offering unique shots of Central Queensland’s plants.
The gorge’s lighting can be challenging but fun. The best times for photos are early morning and late afternoon. These times give you long shadows and depth. For wildlife shots, visit the creek in the afternoon. You might see a shy platypus. Don’t forget extra batteries and memory cards since there’s no mobile signal here.
Conclusion: Visiting Carnarvon Gorge
This is truly a great adventure in Western Queensland. The hikes are amazing, the wildlife plentiful and best of all – there is no cell service for almost all of the park! Its very much a back to the bush experience but something that everyone should do.
FAQ
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Meet Jenny, a passionate Australian travel blogger who has explored 103 countries to date. With over 30 years of travel experience, Jenny has a wealth of knowledge to share with her readers about the cultures, landscapes, and people she has encountered on her journeys. She’s always battling unfashionably frizzy hair and you will never catch Jenny in anything but comfortable shoes. Learn more about Jenny and her travels.