The Rainbow Serpent Track is a short yet meaningful walk that invites visitors to connect with both the land and its stories. Spanning just 300 metres, this Grade 2 walk typically takes about 20 minutes to complete, making it an ideal option for those looking for a quick yet immersive experience. As you follow the trail, you’ll be guided through the Waanyi people's creation story of Boodjamulla, the Rainbow Serpent, and how it shaped the stunning Lawn Hill Gorge.
Along the way, stop at the interpretive shelter to learn more about the gorge's natural and cultural significance. Here, you'll gain an understanding of how the landscape was formed, the diverse plants and animals that call the area home, and the deep cultural importance of this land to the Waanyi people. The shelter offers a fascinating glimpse into the connection between nature and culture in this unique part of Queensland.
Starting from the Lawn Hill Gorge visitor centre, the track leads you towards the Middle Gorge day-use area. This spot is perfect for a relaxing picnic, launching a canoe, or taking a swim in the cool waters of Lawn Hill Creek. Be sure to bring your bathers for a refreshing dip to round off your visit.
- The Rainbow Serpent track and the Lawn Hill Gorge visitor centre (including toilets) are wheelchair accessible.
- There is no drinking water along the track, but you can collect water from the taps at the Lawn Hill Gorge visitor centre and the Lawn Hill Gorge camping area. Remember to treat it before use.
- Avoid drinking water directly from Lawn Hill Creek, as its high levels of calcium carbonate can leave you feeling thirsty.
- Be mindful of water usage—please do not waste water.
Total distance: 284 m
Max elevation: 144 m
Min elevation: 142 m
Total climbing: 2 m
Total descent: -2 m
Main image: Queensland Government
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Closest towns to this walk: Burketown, Cloncurry, Doomadgee, Gregory, Lawn Hill, Mount Isa, Normanton
Getting to the trailhead in Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park.
The Rainbow Serpent track is located in Boodjamulla National Park, in remote north-west Queensland, approximately 270km north-west of Mount Isa, near the Northern Territory border. To access the track, head to the day-use car park in the Lawn Hill Gorge section of the park. From the car park, walk towards the Lawn Hill Gorge visitor centre, where the track begins just on the other side of the building. The short walk leads you to an interpretive shelter and ends at the Middle Gorge day-use area, located by the canoe launch on Lawn Hill Creek.
Boodjamulla National Park, formerly known as Lawn Hill National Park, is a national park in the Shire of Burke, Queensland, Australia. The park is in the Gulf Country region of northwestern Queensland. The park is 340 km (210 mi) northwest of Mount Isa or 1,837 km (1,141 mi) northwest of Brisbane.
The main attractions in the park are the sandstone ranges with deep gorges and a limestone plateau with significant fossil fields. Other attractions include crystal-clear green waters, lush vegetation and canoeing. Surrounding the park are numerous resources reserves, set aside for mineral exploration and mining.
The park contains several permanent creeks, waterholes, gorges, and sandstone ranges. Boodjamulla's ancient sandstones and limestones have been gradually stripped away over millions of years leaving behind rugged escarpments, gorges, and rock outcrops. There are four main habitats contained with the park: riverine, alluvial flats, rocky hills, and clay plains.
Lawn Hill Gorge, the primary attraction in the park, cuts through the sandstone plateau of the Constance Range, on the eastern extremity of the Barkly Tableland. The gorge has been carved out by Lawn Hill Creek, which flows all year and is fed by numerous freshwater springs from the limestone plateau to the west. The gorge is a rich oasis with cabbage palms and other tropical vegetation.
Also in the park are the Gregory River and O'Shanassy Rivers which flow all year round. The park contains 20 km of walking tracks.
For more information on this hiking trail, please visit Queensland.com
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Grade 2 (Easy) -Â
A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the
AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.
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.
