Follow in the footsteps of pioneering gold prospectors on a walk climbing a low saddle between Queensland's two highest peaks, Bartle Frere and Bellenden Ker. The historic Goldfield Trail is a 19 kilometre path through the lush tropical rainforest of Wooroonooran National Park. It takes you from the spectacular Boulders Scenic Reserve, 7 kilometres from Babinda, to the Goldsborough Valley day-use and camping areas, 46 kilometres south of Cairns, passing picturesque creek crossings on the way.
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.
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Leave a trip plan
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.
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Wooroonooran National Park.
North-west end 46km south of Cairns, south-east end 58km south of Cairns. Both ends of the Goldfield trail can be reached by conventional vehicle but access roads, bridges and the trail may be closed due to flooding, particularly during the wetter months (December to April). The ends of the trail are over 60km apart by road and neither is serviced by public transport. Walkers should consider this before setting out and arrange transport at their destination, or consider returning to their starting point. Alternatively the trail could be walked on different days, from either the Boulders Scenic Reserve or Goldsborough Valley, as two separate return trips.
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Accommodation nearby
Find accommodation close to the trailhead including hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Use the interactive map to explore available options in nearby towns.
Nearby towns: Atherton, Bartle Frere, Innisfail, Malanda, Malbon, Mena Creek, Millaa Millaa, Ravenshoe, Tully
About the region
Wooroonooran National Park offers visitors a variety of recreational opportunities. Walshs Pyramid provides a challenging hiking trail not far from Cairns, while Goldsborough Valley offers opportunities for canoeing, mountain biking, walking and camping. Josephine Falls features a cascading waterfall and the beginning of the trail up Queensland's highest peak€”Bartle Frere, while Palmerston (Doongan) is renowned for beautiful rainforest, wild rivers, steep gorges, cascading waterfalls and the Mamu Tropical Skywalk
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Gallery
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