Trail summary
Hike overview
Tucked away in the heart of Danbulla National Park, the Mobo Creek Crater Walk offers an intriguing blend of natural beauty and geological mystery. This 650-metre Grade 3 trail takes around 30 minutes to complete and leads you through the cool, shaded atmosphere of upland rainforest. As you walk, you’ll notice the air is alive with the calls of birds, the rustle of leaves, and the gentle gurgle of the creek, creating a sense of calm that feels worlds away from the everyday.
The crater itself has puzzled scientists for decades. Despite its name, it’s unlikely to have formed from volcanic activity, and its true origins remain a topic of debate. Interpretive signs along the walk provide fascinating insights into the theories surrounding its creation, but the mystery remains unsolved. Perhaps, as you stand at its edge and take in the lush surroundings, you’ll form your own idea of how this unique geological feature came to be.
The trail follows the crater’s edge, winding through dense rainforest rich with diverse plant life. Trackside labels help identify the many tree species that thrive in this ancient ecosystem, adding an educational layer to your experience. Keep an eye on the creek as you walk—those who tread quietly may be lucky enough to spot a platypus, a rare and enchanting sight.
As part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, the Mobo Creek Crater Walk showcases the region’s exceptional natural beauty and ecological significance. This area is a living record of evolutionary history, teeming with diverse flora and fauna. Whether you’re drawn by the allure of its geological enigma, the tranquillity of its rainforest setting, or the chance to catch a glimpse of its elusive wildlife, this walk offers an experience that lingers long after you’ve left.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 735 m
Min elevation: 722 m
Total climbing: 19 m
Total descent: -21 m
Getting there
Closest towns to this walk: Tolga, Atherton, Yungaburra, Malanda, Kairi
To access the trailhead for the Mobo Creek Crater Walk, head to the Mobo Creek Crater Carpark in Danbulla National Park, situated on the central Atherton Tableland, approximately 70 kilometres (a 1.5-hour drive) from Cairns. The walk is located along Danbulla Road, 23.4 kilometres from the western entrance and 4.6 kilometres from the eastern entrance. While much of Danbulla Road is unsealed, it is generally well-maintained and accessible for all vehicles. The journey itself offers a scenic drive through the surrounding rainforest, setting the tone for the natural beauty and intrigue that await on the trail.
Photo gallery
Photo credit: Queensland Government
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
Track grade
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
About the region
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.
Suggest an edit
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.
Similar trails nearby
Looking for things to do in Danbulla National Park and State Forest or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
Let someone know
Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.
Explore safe
Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe
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.