Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Experience a challenging yet rewarding hike up Walshs Pyramid in Wooroonooran National Park, nestled within the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. This 6km return track is Grade 5 (difficult), featuring a steep and rocky trail with no shade. Despite its difficulty, the summit rewards bushwalkers with breathtaking views of the surrounding ranges. Remember to carry plenty of water, sunscreen, a hat, and aim to start your hike in the morning to ensure a safe return before dark.

Length:

6km

Duration:

5-6 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 883m

Min elevation: 31m

Total Ascent: 858m

Start: Walshs Pyramid Carpark

End: Walshs Pyramid Carpark

Wooroonooran National Park

Queensland

Nearby town: Gordonvale

From state capital: 1,680km

Latitude: -17.10713417856131

Longitude: 145.7928174734116

Overview

Map

Gallery

Weather

Similar

Region

6,939 views

Hike overview

Walshs Pyramid is an independent peak, rising 922m, with a distinct pyramid appearance. There is a steep 6km return walking track to the summit. Walkers are rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding ranges and local landscape.

Situated at the northern end of Wooroonooran National Park, within the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, Walshs Pyramid is a granite core left standing in the form of a pointed hill after older, less resistant metamorphic rocks were eroded away.

The track up Walshs Pyramid is steep and rocky, with stunted vegetation that offers no shade. Although a difficult track, walkers who make it to the summit are rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding ranges and local landscape. Return to the start of the walk via the same track. Walkers should take plenty of water, wear sunscreen and a hat, and start the walk in the morning to be sure of returning before it gets dark.

Wooroonooran National Park is open 24 hours a day. Walkers planning to climb Walshs Pyramid are urged to leave in the morning and allow plenty of time to return before dark. There are no wheelchair-accessible facilities.

During the wetter months, from December to April, there are frequent, heavy downpours. Maximum temperatures through the wet season generally range from 27–33°C, with high humidity.

The cooler, drier months from May to September are the best times for walking. The weather is pleasantly warm during this time, with reduced humidity and maximum temperatures averaging 26°C.

Tips

This is a strenuous walk suitable for fit walkers only. Consider your ability and track conditions before setting out.

Start walking in the morning and allow plenty of time to return before it gets dark.

Stay clear of cliff edges—serious injury or death may result from a fall.

Wear sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.

Carry adequate drinking water—water is not available along the track.

Trail features

Scenic Viewpoints
Exposed Ledges
Rock Scrambling
Steep Terrain

Gallery

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Walk map and GPX file

Walshs Pyramid Walking Track (6km)

Total distance: 6391 m
Max elevation: 883 m
Min elevation: 31 m
Total climbing: 858 m
Total descent: -858 m

Getting there

Closest towns to this walk: Atherton, Bartle Frere, Innisfail, Malanda, Malbon, Mena Creek, Millaa Millaa, Ravenshoe, Tully

Getting to the trailhead in Wooroonooran National Park.

From Cairns travel 25km south along the Bruce Highway, past Gordonvale. About 800m south of the Mulgrave River bridge (Desmond Trannore bridge), turn right onto Moss Road. Follow the signs along this gravel road to the car park where the walking track begins.

Get there with Google Maps

Access conditions

2WD Access

About the region

Wooroonooran National Park offers visitors a variety of recreational opportunities. Walshs Pyramid provides a challenging hiking trail not far from Cairns, while Goldsborough Valley offers opportunities for canoeing, mountain biking, walking and camping. Josephine Falls features a cascading waterfall and the beginning of the trail up Queensland’s highest peak—Bartle Frere, while Palmerston (Doongan) is renowned for beautiful rainforest, wild rivers, steep gorges, cascading waterfalls and the Mamu Tropical Skywalk

Similar trails nearby

Looking for hikes and trails in Wooroonooran National Park or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.

Track grade

Grade 5 (Difficult) - Walks for the Most Experienced: Grade 5 represents the most challenging walking tracks on the AWTGS. These are only recommended for very experienced and fit walkers with specialised skills, including navigation and emergency first aid. Tracks are likely to be very rough, very steep, and unmarked. Walks may be more than 20 kilometers. These challenging walks demand a high level of fitness and experience to navigate difficult terrain, significant elevation changes, and potentially unformed paths.

Explore safe

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.

Packing checklists

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.

Let someone know

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

Reviews

Walshs Pyramid Walking Track (6km)

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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.

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Tips

Trail features

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file

Walshs Pyramid Walking Track (6km)