The Kauri Creek Rainforest (Jungaljungal) Walk is a 5.1 km hike located in Danbulla National Park, Queensland. This Grade 4 walk typically takes around 2.5 hours to complete, offering a rewarding experience through lush rainforest and serene creekside views. The trail begins at the Kauri Creek day-use area, with an alternative starting point at the nearby Kauri Creek camping area. If you choose to start from the camping area, the first 600 metres of the track will take you along a connecting section to the day-use area.
Once you arrive at the Kauri Creek day-use area, take a moment to pause and enjoy the tranquil beauty of Kauri Creek. The clear water flows gently towards Lake Tinaroo, and the surrounding area teems with birdlife, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers. Be sure to bring your binoculars and move quietly through the area to observe the rich diversity of birds that call this part of Danbulla home.
From here, the track continues through the rainforest, following the bank of Kauri Creek. Towering trees create a cool canopy above, casting shade over the path as it winds deeper into the forest. At one point, the track crosses the creek, so be prepared to get your feet wet. After crossing, the trail moves through more forest before meeting an old logging road. This section offers another opportunity to cool off in the creek, where the sandy-bottomed waters invite you to dip your toes.
The return leg of the walk takes you along a steep and narrow track, best suited to fit and experienced walkers. As you make your way back, you’ll follow the path of old forestry roads, offering a glimpse into the region's history. You can imagine the effort that would have gone into hauling timber through these forests, which were once heavily logged.
Several sections of this walk are within the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, a region renowned for its exceptional natural beauty and remarkable biodiversity. This area is a living record of life and evolutionary history, with a diverse range of plant and animal species. While the return track offers a sense of adventure, it’s importa
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Photo credit: Queensland Government
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Total distance: 4485 m
Max elevation: 739 m
Min elevation: 693 m
Total climbing: 117 m
Total descent: -115 m
Getting to the trailhead: Danbulla National Park and State Forest.
To reach the trailhead for the Kauri Creek Rainforest (Jungaljungal) Walk, head to Danbulla National Park and Danbulla State Forest, located in the central part of the Atherton Tableland, about 70 km (a 1.5-hour drive) from Cairns. The walk begins and ends at the Kauri Creek Day-use Area, which is accessible via Danbulla Road.
If you’re looking to extend your walk, you can also start from the Kauri Creek camping area. Danbulla Road is mostly unsealed, but it is accessible to all vehicles, and the Kauri Creek Day-use Area is situated 9 km from the western entrance and 19 km from the eastern entrance of the park.
Closest towns to this walk: Atherton, Kairi, Malanda, Mareeba, Tinaroo, Tolga, Yungaburra
Set on the stunning Atherton Tableland, just 60 km (1.5 hours) from Cairns, Danbulla National Park and State Forest spans 12,000 hectares of breathtaking natural and cultural heritage. The park features eucalypt forests, pine plantations, and lush sections of Wet Tropics World Heritage rainforest. Accessible via the 28 km Danbulla Road, this unsealed route connects key attractions, including rainforest walks, bushwalks, and lakeside camping spots along the shores of Lake Tinaroo.
Lake Tinaroo, created in 1958 by damming the Barron River, is central to Danbulla’s charm. Originally built for irrigation, it now provides water storage, power generation, and recreational opportunities like fishing and kayaking. Surrounding trails offer incredible opportunities to explore the region’s biodiversity and natural beauty, with highlights such as towering strangler figs and peaceful crater lakes.
This area is rich in cultural significance to the Tableland Yidinji Aboriginal people, who welcome visitors and ask for respect for this special place. Walking these trails, you’ll encounter not only the vibrant flora and fauna but also traces of the area’s history, from its logging past to the transformative impact of Lake Tinaroo on the region.
Danbulla offers something for everyone, whether you’re seeking a challenging hike, a casual walk, or a family-friendly outing. Take care on the unsealed Danbulla Road, which is narrow and shared with wildlife and occasional logging trucks.
Looking for more walks in or near Danbulla National Park and State Forest? Try these trails with a similar difficulty 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.
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
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