The Andrée Griffin walking track, located in the Mount Spec section of Paluma Range National Park, offers a unique opportunity to explore the rainforest while paying tribute to its namesake, Andrée Griffin—a pioneer in bird call recording. This 1.65km grade 3 hike takes approximately 1.5 hours to complete and offers a peaceful and immersive experience for those seeking a closer connection to nature.
The trail winds through lush rainforest, passing towering buttressed trees and intricate root systems that seem to tell their own stories. Along the way, a dedicated spot honours Andrée Griffin (1917–2012), where hikers can pause on log seats to listen to the rich symphony of bird calls—a fitting tribute to her life’s work. The quiet of the rainforest, punctuated by the melodic sounds of native birds, makes this track particularly special for nature enthusiasts.
The terrain is varied, with rugged sections that include steep gradients, muddy patches, and occasional obstacles like exposed roots and fallen logs. These natural challenges add to the track’s character but require careful footing. The trail begins at the council car park on Smith Crescent, offering a convenient starting point for those eager to explore the rainforest.
For those wanting to extend their adventure, the Andrée Griffin walking track connects with the Cloudy Creek walking track and Witts Lookout track, creating opportunities for longer hikes. Whether you’re visiting to appreciate the rainforest’s beauty or to enjoy a moment of quiet reflection in honour of Andrée Griffin, this trail offers an engaging and memorable experience in the heart of Paluma Range National Park.
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the
AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
- The Andrée Griffin walking track is not wheelchair-accessible due to its uneven and rugged terrain.
- The track is open 24 hours a day; however, access may be limited during wet weather. Rising creeks, fallen trees, or landslides in the Mount Spec area can impact access.
- Before visiting, check park alerts for the latest updates on access, closures, and track conditions.
Total distance: 1416 m
Max elevation: 899 m
Min elevation: 885 m
Total climbing: 28 m
Total descent: -28 m
Login to Download GPXGPX files, maps and content are copyright Trail Hiking Australia. Not to be copied, redistributed or uploaded to other platforms including AllTrails.
Before you go, complete a trip intentions form and share it with a trusted contact. Agree on a Late-Back Time and ask them to call 000 (Police) if you have not checked in. A clear trip plan is one of the simplest and most effective safety steps you can take.
Download the hiking preparation and safety checklists before leaving home to help you think through your plans. They help ensure important considerations are not overlooked and support safer decision-making on the trail.
Getting to the trailhead: Paluma Range National Park.
To reach the trailhead for the Andrée Griffin walking track, start by taking Barrett Road and turning onto Mount Spec Road. Follow Mount Spec Road through the charming township of Paluma, then turn right onto Smith Crescent. You’ll find parking conveniently located next to the council toilet block. From there, it’s just a short 40-metre walk to the start of the trail, making it easy to begin your journey into the rainforest.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Find accommodation close to the trailhead including hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Use the interactive map to explore available options in nearby towns.
Nearby towns: Crystal Creek, Giru, Halifax, Herberton, Hervey Range, Herveys Range, Hidden Valley, Ingham, Little Crystal Creek, Mount Fox, Mount Spec, Mt. Spec, Paluma, Ravenswood
Just over 60 kilometres north of Townsville, Paluma Range National Park offers a rich variety of outdoor experiences. The park is split into two sections, each with its own charm and appeal for bushwalkers and nature lovers alike. In the north, the Jourama Falls section features a stunning waterfall framed by lush rainforest. This area also includes a mix of vine forest and open woodlands, providing an ideal setting for walks and wildlife spotting. The southern section, Mount Spec, rises nearly 1,000 metres above the Big Crystal Creek floodplain, offering sweeping views and access to diverse ecosystems, including tropical rainforest and eucalypt woodland.
The park holds cultural significance for the Traditional Owners, the Nywaigi Aboriginal people, who have deep connections to the land. They invite visitors to respect and enjoy this special place. Known as Munan Gumburu, meaning "misty mountain," the park is often blanketed in morning mists, adding an ethereal quality to the experience.
To access Jourama Falls, travel along an unsealed road off the Bruce Highway, which is suitable for most vehicles and caravans, though conditions can be challenging during the wet season. The Mount Spec section is easily accessible from both Townsville and Ingham, with two turn-offs from the Bruce Highway leading to the recreation areas.
Whether you're looking for serene rainforest walks, the beauty of cascading waterfalls, or a peaceful retreat for birdwatching, Paluma Range National Park offers a diverse range of experiences for all.
Looking for more walks in or near Paluma Range National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
Favourite
Paluma Range National Park
Favourite
Paluma Range National Park
Favourite
Paluma Range National Park
Favourite
Paluma Range National Park
Got any photos from this hike? Your photos can help others plan. Share shots from along the trail so fellow hikers know what to expect.
Click to add your photos >>
Main image: Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation
Notice something different about this trail? Whether it’s a new feature, a route change, or a closure, share your update so we can keep our info accurate and helpful for fellow hikers.
Click to suggest edits >>
