Wooroonooran National Park
South of Cairns, Wooroonooran National Park protects UNESCO-listed tropical rainforests and Queensland's highest peak. Challenging hikes, waterfalls and abundant wildlife await.
Wooroonooran National Park stretches south of Cairns in tropical Queensland. It protects part of the Bellenden Ker Range, including Mount Bartle Frere — the highest peak in eastern Australie — and humid tropical rainforests recognised as UNESCO World Heritage. It's a territory of demanding hikes, cascading waterfalls and dense biodiversity, far removed from the standard tourist trail.
Practical info at a glance
- Access: car essential; the two main sections (Josephine Falls and Goldfield Trail) are reached from the Bruce Highway south of Cairns.
- Entry: free for most day-use zones; some camping areas are charged via the Queensland Parks booking system.
- Suggested duration: half-day for Josephine Falls; 2 days minimum for Mount Bartle Frere ascent.
- Attire: waterproof hiking boots strongly recommended; tracks can be muddy year-round.
- Season: dry season (May–October) advised; some tracks close during the wet season.
What you'll see
The park combines two distinct landscapes. The lowland humid tropical rainforests shelter tree ferns, strangler figs and cassowaries. At altitude, vegetation thins across the Bellenden Ker Range ridges. Josephine Falls constitute the most accessible site, with natural pools ideal for swimming.
History and context
The territory is linked to the Mamu and Ngadjon-Jii peoples, whose traditional knowledge informs park management. Queensland's tropical rainforests were inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage in 1988 under the designation Wet Tropics of Queensland. Wooroonooran is one of the largest and least fragmented blocks within it.
Highlights of the visit
Josephine Falls
A multi-tiered waterfall accessible via a short trail from the carpark. The pools allow swimming in clear water. It's the most visited entry point to the park, ideal for a half-day excursion from Cairns.
Mount Bartle Frere
At 1,622 m, Queensland's highest summit. The return ascent requires two days with overnight camping. The trail traverses multiple vegetation zones and offers, in clear conditions, views across the coast and islands. The track is rated difficult and requires good preparation.
Goldfield Trail
A 19th-century mining track repurposed as a multi-day hiking route. It connects Innisfail to Herberton through rainforest and foothills. Little-frequented, it suits experienced walkers seeking solitude.
Photography tips
Filtered light in the forest is most beautiful mid-morning, before mist lifts. Josephine Falls photograph best after recent rain, when flow is strong. Consider a polarising filter to reduce glare on pools. Cassowaries may appear early morning on lower tracks — keep your distance.
Location and access
The park lies approximately 80 km south of Cairns, accessible via the Bruce Highway. The Josephine Falls section is reached by sealed road from Mirriwinni. No public transport serves the park; a hire car is essential. Disability accessibility is limited to the immediate surrounds of the Josephine Falls carpark.
Nearby
- Daintree National Park — another major UNESCO-listed rainforest block, north of Cairns.
- Atherton Tablelands — agricultural and volcanic plateau to the west, with crater lakes and waterfalls.
- Innisfail — Art Deco town at the park's southern gateway, supply point before longer hikes.
Frequently asked questions
The dry season, May to October, offers passable tracks and reduced weather risk. During the wet season (November–April), some trails close and swollen creek crossings can become hazardous.
Yes, the pools are open for swimming. Check on-site signage: after heavy rain, swimming may be temporarily prohibited for safety reasons.
Yes, camping requires booking via the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service portal. Places are limited, especially on the Mount Bartle Frere trail.
No. The trail is rated difficult: significant elevation gain, slippery terrain, sometimes tricky navigation in fog. Good fitness and experience hiking in tropical rainforest are necessary.
The cassowary is the species most deserving of respect: do not approach and never feed it. Venomous snakes are present; stay on marked trails and wear high-cut footwear.
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