Freshwater crocodiles inhabit Lawn Hill Creek and are commonly seen at Indarri Falls and the Upper Gorge. While generally timid and not considered a threat to humans, they can become aggressive if disturbed and may cause injury. It’s important to maintain a safe distance and avoid approaching or interfering with these reptiles. Exercise caution when swimming and always stay alert.
The Upper Gorge Track is a challenging yet rewarding hike that offers exceptional views over the Upper and Middle Gorges, along with the opportunity to cool off in the waters around Indarri Falls. This 7-kilometre, grade 4 hike in Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park typically takes about three hours to complete. The track begins along the creek before veering inland, where the dry landscape contrasts with the lush oasis of the gorge below. As you walk, keep an eye out for the entertaining ‘arm-waving’ ta-ta lizards darting across the path, their tiny limbs creating a distinctive motion.
The climb to the Upper Gorge lookout offers a spectacular panorama of the green oasis below, with the stark rock formations of the surrounding cliffs framing the scene. Once at the lookout, take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the landscape before descending toward the creek. The lower section of the track brings you to the lush vegetation of the creek, where you might spot turtles gliding through the water, their heads occasionally rising to gulp fallen figs from the surface. This is a perfect spot to cool off, perhaps with a refreshing dip in the creek around Indarri Falls.
For those seeking a more extended adventure, the walk can continue on to Duwadarri Lookout, where another breathtaking view of Middle Gorge awaits. Alternatively, you can retrace your steps along the less strenuous inland section of the Indarri Falls Track. Either way, the route offers a variety of scenic and wildlife-filled experiences.
Accessing the Upper Gorge Track is best done from the Middle Gorge day-use area, where a shady concrete path leads to the start of the hike. The track is more suited to experienced walkers due to its challenging terrain and uneven surfaces, so it’s recommended to start early in the morning to avoid the heat of the day. The landscape here is rugged, with steep rock faces and cliffs, so it’s important to stay on the designated path and exercise caution throughout the walk. With careful planning and a bit of determination, this hike offers one of the most spectacular ways to experience the rugged beauty of Boodjamulla National Park.
- No wheelchair access – The track is not wheelchair-accessible, and there are no accessible facilities along the route.
- Carry sufficient water – There are no drinking water sources along the track. Refill your water bottles at the taps at the Lawn Hill Gorge Visitor Centre or campground, but remember to treat the water before drinking.
- Avoid drinking from Lawn Hill Creek – The high calcium carbonate levels in the creek can leave you feeling more dehydrated. Use treated or bottled water instead and be mindful of conserving your water supply.
- Track is open 24/7 – The Upper Gorge Track is accessible at any time of day or night, though it’s recommended to start early in the morning to avoid the midday heat.
- Check park alerts – Before heading out, check for any park alerts for updates on track access, closures, or changing conditions.
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Main image: Queensland Government
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Total distance: 6998 m
Max elevation: 191 m
Min elevation: 138 m
Total climbing: 151 m
Total descent: -151 m
Getting to the trailhead: Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park.
The Upper Gorge Track is located in Boodjamulla National Park, a remote area in the north-west of Queensland, near the Northern Territory border, approximately 270 kilometres north-west of Mount Isa. To access the track, start at the day-use car park in the Lawn Hill Gorge section of the park. From the car park, walk to the Lawn Hill Gorge Visitor Centre, then take the Rainbow Serpent Track to the Middle Gorge day-use area. From here, turn left and follow the concrete path west along the creek bank. For a smoother walk, it’s best to tackle the Upper Gorge Track in a clockwise direction. Once the path leaves the thicker vegetation along the creek, take the turn-off to the left and follow the signs for Indarri Falls and Upper Gorge tracks.
Closest towns to this walk: Burketown, Cloncurry, Doomadgee, Gregory, Lawn Hill, Mount Isa, Normanton
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 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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