The Island Stack track offers a rewarding challenge with spectacular views and opportunities for birdwatching in Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park. This 3-kilometre, grade 4 hike takes you to a prominent sandstone feature that rises steeply from the landscape. The walk starts with a strenuous climb up the 'stack' and continues around its tabletop, providing a 360-degree view that’s worth every bit of effort. From the summit, you can take in breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding gorge and creek below.
For the best experience, try to time your walk for early morning or late afternoon. At sunrise, you can watch the first light of day illuminate the sandstone walls of the gorge, casting a warm glow over the landscape. In the evening, the sunset paints the rocks in hues of orange and gold, and you may even catch a glimpse of the moon rising over the horizon. The changing light adds a sense of wonder to the view and makes this hike a photographer’s dream. As you make your way around the top, keep an eye out for the rare purple-crowned fairy-wren flitting among the pandanus along the creek. From the summit, you might also spot whistling kites and eagles soaring overhead.
The track can be accessed from the Middle Gorge day-use area by crossing the floating bridge. Given the climb and the potential for heat, it's recommended to start early to avoid the midday sun. The effort required is well worth the reward, especially for those who love nature, wildlife, and dramatic landscapes.
- There are no wheelchair-accessible facilities along the track.
- No drinking water is available along the track, but you can collect water from the taps at the Lawn Hill Gorge visitor centre and Lawn Hill Gorge camping area (ensure to treat before use).
- Avoid drinking water directly from Lawn Hill Creek, as the high levels of calcium carbonate can leave you very thirsty.
- Please be mindful of water usage—do not waste it.
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Total distance: 3001 m
Max elevation: 187 m
Min elevation: 142 m
Total climbing: 108 m
Total descent: -108 m
Getting to the trailhead: Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park.
The Island Stack track is located in Boodjamulla National Park, in the remote north-western corner of Queensland, near the Northern Territory border and 270km north-west of Mount Isa. To reach the trailhead, start at the car park in the Lawn Hill Gorge section of the park. From there, head towards the Lawn Hill Gorge visitor centre, then follow the Rainbow Serpent track for about 100 metres until you reach the Middle Gorge day-use area. Turn right and head east, following the signs to the floating bridge. Once you’ve crossed the bridge, continue along the track, which will lead you to the Island Stack trailhead.
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.
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