Trail Fast Facts
Kahlpahlim Rock Trail is a 10.8km, grade 5 hike in Dinden National Park, Queensland. This hike typically takes 7 hours to complete.
Warning
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.
Hike Overview
Kahlpahlim Rock Trail traverses Dinden National Park, leading you to the summit of Kahlpahlim Rock (also known as Lambs Head). At a staggering 1,300 meters above sea level, it's the highest point on the Lamb Range. The sheer size of the rock and the panoramic views over the Davies Creek catchment are awe-inspiring.
Lambs Head is a challenging hike, but achievable with a good level of fitness and proper footwear. The steepest sections require sturdy hiking boots or trail runners for good traction.
There are two scenic yet demanding trails leading to the top: Kahlpahlim Rock Trail and Ridge Trail. These trails converge near the summit, allowing you to create a loop circuit for the descent.
Track Grade
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.
Tips
- 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.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 1293 m
Min elevation: 675 m
Total climbing: 715 m
Total descent: -714 m
Trail Location (trailhead)
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Getting there
The trailhead for Kahlpahlim Rock Trail is located along Davies Creek Road, Lamb Range, Queensland 4870, Australia.
From Cairns, travel towards Kuranda via the Kennedy Highway. After passing the Kuranda turn-off, travel a further 21km before turning left on to Davies Creek Road. This gravel road is corrugated and unsuitable for caravans.
Upper Davies Creek camping area is on Davies Creek, 10km along Davies Creek Road - 3.8km past Lower Davies Creek camping area. Four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended.
Photo gallery
If you have any photos from this hike and are happy to share them, please upload your .jpg files here.
Please note: Uploading photos does not transfer ownership of copyright away from you. If requested, you will be credited for any photos you provide and can ask they be deleted at any time.
About the region
Davies Creek and Dinden national parks are on the Atherton Tableland.
Between camp sites 3 and 4 is the start of the Turtle Rock circuit trail. Continue driving along Davies Creek Road, past camp sites 5 and 6, to reach the start of the Kahlpahlim Rock (Lambs Head) trail. Continue along Davies Creek Road to camp sites 7 and 8.
Also within Dinden National Park, enjoy the scenic drive along Clohesy River Road and walk the Clohesy River fig tree boardwalk. Clohesy River Road is accessed from the Kennedy Highway (9km north of the intersection with Davies Creek Road or 10km south of Kuranda). Access is only by four-wheel-drive vehicles and the creek crossings may be impassable after rain. All vehicles must be road registered.
Roads within Davies Creek and Dinden national parks may be closed in the wet season (December to April) due to flooding or after heavy rain for maintenance. Visit the Bureau of MeteorologyExternal link icon for updated weather reports.
Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Let someone know
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
Suggest an edit
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Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.