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.
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.
Total distance: 6403 m
Max elevation: 0 m
Min elevation: 0 m
Total climbing: 0 m
Total descent: 0 m
Download file:
Cannabullen-Falls.gpx
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Closest towns to this walk: Innisfail, Millaa Millaa, Ravenshoe, Tully
Getting to the trailhead in 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.
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 animals€”like golden bowerbirds and Lumholtz's tree-kangaroos€”are only found in the Wet Tropics. Walk through lush rainforest, sit beside tumbling waterfalls and rest beside clear mountain streams.
Looking for hikes and trails in Tully Falls National Park or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.
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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.
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.
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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