10 Best hikes and trails in Barron Gorge National Park

Best trails in Barron Gorge National Park

4.3(1,972 reviews)

Australia
:
#57 of 637 national parks

Barron Gorge is a formidable park reaching from the table lands all the way to the coast, divided by the Barron River. The dominant feature of this popular park is the Barron River, which winds from the tablelands down to the coast. One of the main attractions is Barron Falls, a tiered series of falls that drop 265m to the gorge below. Below the falls is the Barron Gorge Hydro-Power Station, Australia's first underground power station created in 1935 to harness the power of the falls. Visitors can enjoy a large variety of hiking trails and also ride the park's scenic railway and cableway.

Top trails

#1 - Glacier Rock Lookout

This is a fantastic walk that is a must-do while in Cairns. There is a great variety in this walk, including rainforest, creeks and nice views. It is worth the effort to start early or go late to avoid the heat on the climb which is decent, and this means you could also catch a sunset or sunrise from the top. This route is an undulating well-signed rainforest walk that features dense vegetation of the Barron Gorge National Park. The walking trail networks in this region were formed by the...

#2 - Weir, Douglas, Glacier Rock, Gandal Wandun, and Smiths Track Loop

Discover one of the most breathtaking walks in Barron Gorge, near Cairns, Queensland. This hike takes you through stunning rainforest where you can spot plenty of wildlife. Don't miss the Weir, Glacier Rock, and the scenic Stoney Creek river crossings. The track is well-maintained and clearly marked. Be aware that there are some rocky and steep sections, so it's best to wear sturdy footwear with good grip.

#3 - Stoney Creek Falls via Small Waterfall

4.0(136)

•Hard

•1.7 mi

This is an off-trail route through bushland up to two waterfalls in Barron Gorge National Park. The trail follows the creek line for most of the way and involves rock hopping in several sections. Wear appropriate footwear, and be aware that it can be slippery in spots. Parking is available at the start of the trail on Stoney Creek Road.

#4 - Stony Creek Garndal Garndal Weir Track

This is an enjoyable family friendly trail through the Barron Gorge National Park in Far North Queensland, located not too far north west from Cairns. This out and back route begins and ends from the parking area at the end of Stoney Creek Road. Follow the Weir Track out to the end and back as you meander along Stony Creek.

#5 - Smiths Track to Stoney Creek Falls

A great but challenging walk up to Stoney Creek Falls that passes by Toby's Lookout as it climbs up and through the gorge. Sections of this track are incredibly steep and you wont find much if any flat sections so come prepared. Take plenty of water with you and a decent pair of walking shoes. Hiking poles would come in handy for those not so steady on their feet.

#6 - Stoney Creek to Kuranda

Commencing at Stoney Creek Trailhead take shaded foot-trail McDonald's Track to Red Bluff and continue straight towards Kuranda. This section is mostly on a vehicle firetrack and is exposed to sun. This turns into Surprise Creek Track before arriving at Wright's Lookout. Follow sealed road into Kuranda from this point. Optional sidetrack to Barron Falls in this section. Steep in sections and would be muddy and very slippery after rain, considering distance could be done more enjoyably as a...

#7 - Wrights Lookout to Glacier Rock Lookout

A decent hike through the Barron Gorge National Park, located north east of Cairns and not too far from the town of Kuranda, Queensland. Starting at the Wright's Lookout this route follows a track beside the Barron Gorge, crossing creeks and leading you to the Glacier Rock lookout. There are some steep inclines and declines along the way. Once at Glacier Rock Lookout you're at a great place to take a rest and take in the view over Cairns and Mount Whitfield. Start the walk super early to...

#8 - Glacier Rock Lookout via Douglas Track

This is a superb walk through beautiful forest to Glacier Rock Lookout in Barron Gorge National Park just outside of Cairns in north Queensland. The route begins from Speewah Campground and follows well-maintained paths and boardwalks as it travels to the edge of the top of the gorge. From Glacier Rock the views extend in all directions and are absolutely worth the effort.

#9 - Gandal Wandun and Douglas Track

This is a straightforward and enjoyable loop walk through Barron Gorge National Park from the Speewah Campground. The track is modern and well-maintained and travels through dense forest with great understory and waterways as well as along clifftops with great views. You might catch a glimpse of a cassowary here, too!

This undulating well-signed rainforest walk features dense vegetation of the Barron Gorge National Park. The trail starts and ends at the end of Stoney Creek Road and is located close to Cairns, Queensland. The walking trail networks in this region were formed by the Djabugandji Bama traditional owners, who developed trails that linked the coasts to the highlands.

Showing results 1–10 of 15

Explore more trails

Parks

Headed to a park?

Take AllTrails with you

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to hike in Barron Gorge National Park?

According to users from AllTrails.com, the best place to hike in Barron Gorge National Park is Glacier Rock Lookout, which has a 4.6 star rating from 916 reviews. This trail is 4.3 mi long with an elevation gain of 1,459 ft.

What is the longest trail in Barron Gorge National Park?

According to AllTrails.com, the longest trail in Barron Gorge National Park is Stoney Creek to Kuranda. This trail is estimated to be 14.7 mi long.

How many trails are in Barron Gorge National Park?

There are 15 trails in Barron Gorge National Park. These trails have an average 4.3-star rating from 1,972 AllTrails community reviews.

Which trail has the most elevation gain in Barron Gorge National Park?

If you're looking for elevation gain, Barron Gorge National Park has you covered. Mount Williams via Smiths Track boasts the most elevation gain with 3,474 ft of total ascent. The park's runner-up is Toby’s Lookout via Smith Track, which will get you 3,398 ft of elevation gain.

Are there running trails available in Barron Gorge National Park?

According to AllTrails.com, there are 7 running trails in Barron Gorge National Park and the most popular is Weir, Douglas, Glacier Rock, Gandal Wandun, and Smiths Track Loop with an average 4.5 star rating from 167 community reviews.