It’s best to avoid the walk when the top of the mountain is covered in cloud or after wet weather. Water is not available along the trails so come prepared with extra water bottles and always inform a friend of your plans.
Kahlpahlim Rock Trail is a rugged 10.5-kilometre return hike set within Dinden National Park in Far North Queensland. Often referred to as Lambs Head, this route leads to the highest point on the Lamb Range, standing at around 1300 metres above sea level. The track is rated Grade 5, demanding a good level of fitness, solid preparation, and a willingness to take on some steep and uneven ground. Most hikers will need four to five hours to complete the return journey, although it’s worth allowing extra time to take in the surroundings or tackle the trail as a circuit.
The walk begins from a small carpark at the end of the Varch Creek Trail, an extension of Davies Creek Road. From here, the path enters a shaded gully lined with ferns and dense vegetation before quickly beginning a sharp ascent. Much of the climb follows a rough, rocky staircase cut into the slope, making sturdy hiking boots or trail runners essential for grip and stability. The forest gradually thins as you gain elevation, offering glimpses of the surrounding ranges through breaks in the canopy.
There are two main trails to the summit—Kahlpahlim Rock Trail and the Ridge Trail—both steep and rewarding in their own way. They converge near the top, so it’s possible to complete the walk as a circuit, climbing one track and descending the other. The summit itself is marked by a cluster of massive granite boulders. While the views can be spectacular on a clear day, it’s worth noting that cloud can settle quickly at this altitude, so timing your hike for a fine-weather window will give you the best chance of panoramic views.
This is not a walk to take lightly. It’s recommended to start early in the day to avoid the heat and to give yourself plenty of time to return safely. After rain, the trail can become slippery and more hazardous, so dry conditions are preferable. There’s no water available along the route, so carry plenty with you, and let someone know your plans before heading out.
While it’s a demanding trail, reaching Kahlpahlim Rock is a memorable experience, offering both a physical challenge and a deep sense of immersion in Queensland’s highland bushland. The combination of steep climbs, diverse terrain, and a remote-feeling summit makes this a standout walk for those seeking something a little off the beaten track.
- Start early: Take advantage of cooler morning temperatures and ample daylight for the return journey, which can take several hours.
- Check the forecast: Avoid hiking when the summit is clouded over or after heavy rain.
- Bring plenty of water: No water is available on the trails, so plan accordingly.
- Inform a friend: Let someone know your hiking plans for safety reasons.
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Total distance: 9807 m
Max elevation: 1293 m
Min elevation: 767 m
Total climbing: 644 m
Total descent: -644 m
Getting to the trailhead: Dinden National Park.
To access the Kahlpahlim Rock Trail, travel from Cairns along the Kennedy Highway towards Kuranda. After passing the Kuranda turn-off, continue for another 21 kilometres before turning left onto Davies Creek Road. This gravel road is unsealed, often corrugated, and unsuitable for caravans. Continue along Davies Creek Road, passing both the Lower and Upper Davies Creek camping areas. The trail begins further along at the Varch Creek Trail carpark, which marks the starting point for the hike. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended, particularly after rain, as the road conditions can be rough in places.
Closest towns to this walk: Atherton, Cairns, Lake Eacham, Malanda, Mareeba, Tolga, Yungaburra
Tucked into the Atherton Tableland, Davies Creek and Dinden National Parks offer a quiet yet striking landscape of open forest, granite outcrops, and cool streams. These parks are a welcome escape from the busier spots of Far North Queensland, with a network of tracks and camp sites that offer space to slow down and explore at your own pace.
The Turtle Rock Circuit begins between camp sites 3 and 4 along Davies Creek Road. This trail weaves through eucalyptus woodland and past impressive boulder formations, offering peaceful views across the tableland. Further along the same road, past camp sites 5 and 6, you'll come to the start of the Kahlpahlim Rock trail—also known as Lambs Head. This is one of the more challenging hikes in the area, taking you to one of the highest points on the Lamb Range. On a clear day, you’ll find sweeping views that stretch across the surrounding forests and ridgelines. The road continues past camp sites 7 and 8, with each site providing a simple, natural base for resting overnight.
Within nearby Dinden National Park, a drive along Clohesy River Road leads to one of the lesser-known gems of the region: the Clohesy River fig tree. The short boardwalk through the forest brings you face to face with a towering green fig—a sprawling natural sculpture that feels almost otherworldly in its scale and presence. Access to Clohesy River Road is from the Kennedy Highway, either 9 kilometres north of the Davies Creek Road intersection or 10 kilometres south of Kuranda. This route is strictly for four-wheel-drive vehicles, and conditions can change quickly. Creek crossings along the way may become impassable after rain, so it’s important to check forecasts and track conditions in advance. All vehicles using this road must be road-registered.
Be aware that roads throughout Davies Creek and Dinden National Park are sometimes closed during the wet season, typically from December to April. Closures may also occur after heavy rain due to flooding or for essential maintenance. Before heading out, it’s a good idea to check the latest weather updates through the Bureau of Meteorology to help plan a safe and enjoyable trip.
Looking for more walks in or near Dinden National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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Grade 5 (Difficult) - Walks for the Most Experienced: Grade 5 represents the most challenging walking tracks on the
AWTGS. These are only recommended for very experienced and fit walkers with specialised skills, including navigation and emergency first aid. Tracks are likely to be very rough, very steep, and unmarked. Walks may be more than 20 kilometers. These challenging walks demand a high level of fitness and experience to navigate difficult terrain, significant elevation changes, and potentially unformed paths.
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.
Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
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1 Review on “Kahlpahlim Rock Trail (10.5km)”
Awesome hike. We actually completed the Kahlpahlim Rock Trail as part of the main circuit, which combines the Rock and Ridge Trails. We descended this track from the summit. It was quite pretty near the bottom as it entered a broad gully. Plenty of stairs too.