Meeting Rock Wallabies at the stunning Granite Gorge Nature Park, Mareeba, Far North Queensland
- Dan Draper
- Jun 11, 2017
- 4 min read
Far North Queensland offers a diverse range of experiences beyond its lush tropical rainforests. As you journey inland, the landscape undergoes a striking transformation. Nestled just outside the charming town of Mareeba, just an hour and a half's drive from Cairns, you'll discover the hidden gem of Granite Gorge Nature Park.
Mareeba, situated in the heart of the Atherton Tablelands region, boasts a rich tapestry of attractions. Known for its agricultural heritage, it's the largest town on the Tablelands and serves as a gateway to a plethora of natural wonders. The area is renowned for producing a variety of crops, including coffee, mangoes, and avocados, which thrive in the fertile soils and temperate climate.
Granite Gorge Nature Park offers a delightful escape from the bustling tourist hubs. It beckons with intriguing hiking trails that promise a unique twist and captivating encounters with wildlife, making your journey all the more extraordinary. If you're a true nature enthusiast, you might even consider an extended stay in this secluded haven, as the park provides accommodation options.
Upon your arrival at Granite Gorge Nature Park, you'll receive a warm welcome at the Visitor Centre, where you'll pay the $12.00 adult entry fee to access the park. In return, you'll be furnished with a map and an overview of the park's attractions and activities.
This destination isn't limited to a day trip; it offers diverse accommodation choices, including camping with your own equipment or staying in a self-contained cabin. Granite Gorge Nature Park even offers Safari Tents for camping, suitable for two or four people.
Once you're ready to explore the park, you'll face the decision of which trail to take. Two main tracks are highlighted in red and yellow, with the red track being the longest, encompassing most of the park's scenic wonders. It's likely the most recommended route. Those seeking a less demanding experience can opt for the yellow track or take a brief stroll before retracing their steps.
Your adventure commences with an encounter with a delightful array of furry friends. Rock Wallabies, patiently awaiting visitors, know that a steady stream of people will provide them with Wallaby food, available for purchase at the Visitor Centre for just $1.00.
If you happen to visit when the park is less crowded, these little furry creatures might swarm around you. However, if other visitors are present, you won't be pestered as much since the affection is shared. Most of the Rock Wallabies prefer to congregate near the entrance, anticipating the arrival of visitors. Nevertheless, you'll still spot many of them leaping about the park as you explore, just not in such abundance.
After enjoying the company of the Rock Wallabies, the next stop is the weir. The pristine waters of the weir offer a refreshing spot for an afternoon swim, providing respite from the heat. However, be forewarned that the water can be quite chilly.
I've ventured into these waters on two occasions, and it can be a pleasant experience. Although the second time around, I found the water to be surprisingly cold, prompting a hasty exit. You can also swim across to a large boulder in the middle of the water and attempt to climb it before taking the exhilarating leap back into the water.
During my previous visits, visitors were allowed to climb along the weir and jump into the water. However, on this occasion, safety barriers and signs restricting movement had been installed. If swimming is your primary goal, you might want to consider a visit to Mossman Gorge, although it tends to be more crowded. Granite Gorge Nature Park is best appreciated for its breathtaking scenery and hiking opportunities.
The weir is also home to more creatures, although these are shyer than the Rock Wallabies. Turtles occasionally emerge along the shoreline, poking their heads above the water's surface for a quick breath of air before promptly retreating when they sense your presence.
If you have the time, I recommend sitting quietly here for as long as possible, soaking in the picturesque surroundings, particularly if you have the place to yourself. I was fortunate enough to do so until other visitors arrived, signalling my cue to move on and explore the rest of the park.
Continuing beyond the weir, you'll encounter more of the landscape that inspired the park's name: colossal boulders stretching as far as the eye can see. Here, you'll face a choice between following the red or yellow path. I've consistently chosen the red path, as it offers a more extensive and rewarding hike.
At the end of the park, you'll reach a bustling creek, which meanders its way through the boulders, leading to a rock formation aptly named Whale Rock. Its striking resemblance to a massive whale is unmistakable. From here, you can choose to retrace your steps, attempt the shorter yellow track back to the starting point, or opt for the flat "emergency track," an excellent choice if you're fatigued from clambering over rocks on the descent.
Granite Gorge Nature Park promises an exceptional day out for hiking enthusiasts seeking a diverse range of experiences. For more information on Granite Gorge Nature Park, including an updated price list that may have changed since this article was last written, please visit their website. And while you're in the region of Mareeba, consider exploring its fascinating attractions, from its agricultural heritage to its charming town centre.