Best trails in Hinchinbrook Island National Park

Cloud-shrouded peaks, secluded tropical beaches, and refreshing freshwater lagoons define this world-class journey along the rugged eastern coastline of Hinchinbrook Island. The Thorsborne Trail is a premier point-to-point trek, typically navigated from Ramsay Bay in the north to George Point in the south, though it can be tackled in either direction. Most adventurers spend four to five days exploring this wilderness, allowing ample time to linger at the many stunning swimming holes and...

Stretching along the rugged coastline of Hinchinbrook Island, the Thorsborne Trail is a premier wilderness experience that immerses you in a landscape of Jurassic proportions. FOr most hikers, this is the first segment of the multi-day journey, travelling from the sandy shores of Little Ramsay Bay to the tropical paradise of Zoe Bay. It is a day defined by incredible environmental variety, transitioning from sun-drenched headlands to the deep shade of the island's interior. The journey south...

Sweeping views of the Coral Sea and the rugged peaks of Hinchinbrook Island greet you on this spectacular stretch of the Thorsborne Trail. This segment represents the second day of the multi-day trek, leading you from the lush surroundings of Zoe Bay to the freshwater sanctuary of Diamantina Creek. It is a day of dramatic transitions, taking you from sea level to high ridges before descending back into the island's forested heart. The journey begins with a rewarding climb to the top of the...

This short section of the Thorsborne Trail connects Ramsay Beach to Nina Bay with an exciting and rocky ascent of Nina Peak. The views stretching over Missionary Bay from the summit of the peak are outstanding. Permits are required for bushwalking on the track and are capped at a maximum of 40 persons on the trail at any one time. You will also need to book a ferry to access the start of the trail, as well as a pickup from the southern end of the trail at Picnic Beach.

Sun-drenched beaches and tranquil paperbark swamps signal the final chapter of an epic island adventure. This concluding segment of the Thorsborne Trail travels from the rainforest sanctuary of Mulligan Falls to the southern terminus at George Point. It is a day that offers a wonderful change of pace, moving away from the steep granite inclines of the interior and towards the wide, salt-sprayed horizons of the Hinchinbrook coastline. The journey begins under the cool canopy of the...

Take on a truly wild part of Hinchinbrook Island, the traditional lands of the Bandjin people. The track from Nina Bay to Little Ramsay Bay is a stunner, leading you along beaches and lush coastal landscapes. Keep your eyes peeled for rainforest birds, butterflies, and green sea turtles near the shore. Be croc-wise at any water crossings, and remember to be fully self-sufficient as there are no facilities out here except for basic campsites.

Embark on a formidable wilderness expedition to the highest peak on Hinchinbrook Island, reserved for highly experienced bushwalkers with advanced navigation skills. This demanding route follows the rugged Warrawilla Creek bed, where there is no constructed track to follow. Hikers must negotiate a relentless ascent that involves constant rock hopping and technical scrambling over slippery boulders, requiring significant upper-body strength. The dense rainforest canopy frequently obscures the...

Plunge into a lush world of ancient ferns and towering canopies as the track leaves the sun-drenched coast for the heart of the rainforest. This segment of the Thorsborne Trail serves as day three for many, carrying you from the crystal waters of Diamantina Creek through to the breathtaking oasis of Mulligan Falls. While shorter than other stretches, it is a fascinating journey that transitions from exposed heathland into a dense, emerald wilderness that feels remarkably secluded. The...

If you're after a challenging bushwalk in a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path location, consider the Cape Richards Trail to North Shepard Beach and Orchid Beach. This route involves bushbashing, so make sure you come prepared with the appropriate gear. It’s a great opportunity to truly immerse yourself in a wilder side of the Queensland bush on Hinchinbrook Island.