The Duwadarri Lookout Track offers a short but rewarding hike with breathtaking views over Middle Gorge and the chance for some excellent birdwatching. Located in Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park in Queensland, this 2km, grade 4 loop track typically takes about an hour to complete.
Starting from the Middle Gorge day-use area, the track takes you up a steep ridge behind the camping area. As you climb, the landscape opens up, revealing striking views of the red sandstone walls that line Middle Gorge, with its vivid blue waters below. The lookout provides a fantastic vantage point where you can watch kites soaring high above—the birds often nest along the rim of the gorge, making this a prime spot for bird enthusiasts.
On the way back, retrace your steps down the ridge, but don’t rush; keep an eye out for the purple-crowned fairy-wrens that can often be spotted darting among the pandanus lining the creek. For the best chance of seeing these delicate birds, visit early in the morning or in the late afternoon when the light is soft, and the activity is at its peak.
This track is one of the park's western walks and can be accessed from the shaded concrete path along the creek from the Middle Gorge day-use area. If you're looking for a longer adventure, continue past the Duwadarri Lookout, following the Indarri Falls track to the Indarri Falls lookout, and then follow the circuit back.
- The track is not wheelchair-accessible.
- There is no drinking water available along the track, but you can collect water (treat before use) from the taps at the Lawn Hill Gorge visitor centre and Lawn Hill Gorge camping area.
- Do not drink water directly from Lawn Hill Creek, as the high calcium carbonate levels can make you extremely thirsty.
- Please be mindful and avoid wasting water.
Total distance: 2040 m
Max elevation: 164 m
Min elevation: 138 m
Total climbing: 40 m
Total descent: -40 m
Main image: Queensland Government
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Closest towns to this walk: Burketown, Cloncurry, Doomadgee, Gregory, Lawn Hill, Mount Isa, Normanton
Getting to the trailhead in Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park.
The Duwadarri Lookout Track is located in Boodjamulla National Park (Aboriginal Land), in the remote north-western corner of Queensland, about 270km north-west of Mount Isa, near the Northern Territory border. To access the track, park at the Lawn Hill Gorge day-use area. From the car park, head towards the Lawn Hill Gorge visitor centre, then take the Rainbow Serpent track to the Middle Gorge day-use area. Turn left and follow the concrete path west along the creek bank, which will lead you directly to the start of the Duwadarri Lookout Track.
Boodjamulla National Park, formerly known as Lawn Hill National Park, is a national park in the Shire of Burke, Queensland, Australia. The park is in the Gulf Country region of northwestern Queensland. The park is 340 km (210 mi) northwest of Mount Isa or 1,837 km (1,141 mi) northwest of Brisbane.
The main attractions in the park are the sandstone ranges with deep gorges and a limestone plateau with significant fossil fields. Other attractions include crystal-clear green waters, lush vegetation and canoeing. Surrounding the park are numerous resources reserves, set aside for mineral exploration and mining.
The park contains several permanent creeks, waterholes, gorges, and sandstone ranges. Boodjamulla's ancient sandstones and limestones have been gradually stripped away over millions of years leaving behind rugged escarpments, gorges, and rock outcrops. There are four main habitats contained with the park: riverine, alluvial flats, rocky hills, and clay plains.
Lawn Hill Gorge, the primary attraction in the park, cuts through the sandstone plateau of the Constance Range, on the eastern extremity of the Barkly Tableland. The gorge has been carved out by Lawn Hill Creek, which flows all year and is fed by numerous freshwater springs from the limestone plateau to the west. The gorge is a rich oasis with cabbage palms and other tropical vegetation.
Also in the park are the Gregory River and O'Shanassy Rivers which flow all year round. The park contains 20 km of walking tracks.
For more information on this hiking trail, please visit Queensland.com
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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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