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.
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Photo credit: Queensland Government
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Total distance: 597 m
Max elevation: 735 m
Min elevation: 722 m
Total climbing: 19 m
Total descent: -21 m
Getting to the trailhead: Danbulla National Park and State Forest.
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.
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 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.
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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