Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Tully Falls National Park on the 13.6km Cannabullen Falls Trail, a Grade 4 (Hard) hiking trail near Cairns, Australia. As part of the renowned Misty Mountains Wilderness Trails Network, this challenging route offers majestic views of Cannabullen Creek gorge and the breathtaking 70m drop of Cannabullen Falls. Hikers should be prepared for steep terrain, cool swimming spots, and the possibility of camping at Hinson Creek for an unforgettable overnight adventure. Remember, the trail can be slippery and requires caution, especially near the edge of the falls.

Length:

13.6km

Duration:

4-6 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 0m

Min elevation: 0m

Total Ascent: 0m

Start: Hinson Creek Trailhead

End: Hinson Creek Trailhead

Tully Falls National Park

Queensland

Nearby town: Sutties Gap Rd

From state capital: 1322km

Latitude: -17.656081

Longitude: 145.641076

Overview

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Hike overview

The Cannabullen Falls Trail runs deep into the Tully Falls National Park, part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. It is part of the larger Misty Mountains Wilderness Trails Network.

This trail is 13.6km long, and depending on your fitness and speed, should take about 4-6hrs return. You can ride a mountain bike for the first 12km of the trail and your can book a campsite at the Hinson Creek Campground (room for a single tent) for a unique over-night experience.

From the trail-head on Sutties Gap Rd, follow old logging tracks to the Hinson Creek crossing (2.0km), another unnamed creek at 3.6km. At 4.6km there is a trail junction - turn left towards the Falls Lookout (signed) not Cannabullen Creek. At 5.7km, the trail becomes a little indistinct. Look for the steeper trail leaving the logging track you have been walking on to the right. Follow this single track for about 1.2km to the gorge of Cannabullen Creek - the final 400m being very steep descent to the creek.

Once in the gorge, travel downstream to the top of Cannabullen Falls (about 200m). The falls plunge about 70m to the gorge below. The edge is unprotected and can be slippery, so take care. Approx 300m upstream is a twin set of stepped falls with a large pool at the base. This makes a great place for a snack and a swim but be warned, these inviting pools are very cool all year round - very refreshing!
Return the way you came.

Tips

This trail passes through spectacular rainforest all the way to the falls. Great chance to see wildlife unique to this area, including the Southern Cassowary. The dry season (May-Oct) is the best time to walk as during the wet it can be slippery, muddy and the creek crossings can be deep. Watch out for Lawyer Vine hanging down on the trail, especially if riding. Take a small packet of salt to easily remove leeches, especially if walking in the wet. Take care walking in Cannabullen Creek as the boulders can be slippery and shift - if you do an ankle, its a long hop back to the car!

Hike contributed by Wayne Young

Please note, as this is a return hike, the map and GPX file below only show half the hike and are missing elevation data.

Track grade

Grade 4 (Hard) - Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.

Walk map and GPX file
Cannabullen Falls Trail Walk (13.6km)

Total distance: 6403 m
Max elevation: 0 m
Min elevation: 0 m
Total climbing: 0 m
Total descent: 0 m

Gallery

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Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Tully Falls National Park.

From Millaa Millaa take the Old Palmerston Highway for 10.5km. Turn left into Maalan Rd and in 6.5km turn left into Sutties Gap road. The Hinson Creek Trailhead (signed) is on the right in 7.4km. The last 5km of the route is unsealed and while generally good gravel road, a 4WD is recommened.

Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.

Get there with Google Maps

About the region

Tully Falls National Park is part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area and one of the wettest areas of Australia. The transition between vegetation types supports a wide range of animal life. Many of these animalslike golden bowerbirds and Lumholtz's tree-kangaroosare only found in the Wet Tropics. Walk through lush rainforest, sit beside tumbling waterfalls and rest beside clear mountain streams.

Find a place to stay

Find Accommodation

Wondering where to stay near this hike? Find accommodation close to the trailhead — hotels, cabins and campgrounds nearby. Click the button to view the interactive map.

Closest towns to this walk: Innisfail, Millaa Millaa, Ravenshoe, Tully

Let someone know

Heading out? Fill in a trip intentions form so someone knows your plans. If things go wrong, they can raise the alarm fast, giving you peace of mind on the trail.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Tully Falls National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.

Packing checklists

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.

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Cannabullen Falls Trail Walk (13.6km)

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Acknowledgement of Country

Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Tips

Track grade

Walk map and GPX file
Cannabullen Falls Trail Walk (13.6km)