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Thorsborne Trail — Hinchinbrook Island National Park

  • Nature, culture and history

    • Park alerts and park summary
    Camping information

    Getting there and getting around

    Access to the Thorsborne Trail is either by private vessel, launched from Cardwell or Lucinda (Dungeness), or by the water taxi services. Services vary according to demand, tide levels and time of year.

    To book transfers to the northern end of the Thorsborne Trail contact Hinchinbrook Island Ferries (phone 07 4066 8585).

    To book transfers to the southern end of the Trail contact Hinchinbrook Wilderness Safaris (phone 07 4777 8307).

    Walkers accessing the island by private vessel should obtain a copy of the Marine wonders of Hinchinbrook: a guide to using the Hinchinbrook transit lanes brochure produced by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority.

    Wheelchair accessibility

    There are no wheelchair-accessible facilities or tracks on the Thorsborne Trail.

    Park features

    Hinchinbrook Island is a rugged, outstanding feature of the north Queensland coast between Townsville and Cairns. Its cloud-covered mountains, reaching 1000m, support fragile heath vegetation. Patches of lush rainforest and extensive eucalypt forest descend to a mangrove-fringed channel in the west with sweeping bays and rocky headlands along the east coast.

    Protected since 1932, Hinchinbrook is one of Australia's largest island national parks (39,900ha). The island is within the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area and is separated from the mainland by the scenic Hinchinbrook Channel.

    Thorsborne Trail

    The 32km Thorsborne Trail, along Hinchinbrook Island's east coast, is named after the late Arthur Thorsborne. Arthur and his wife, Margaret, shared a lifelong interest in nature conservation that included monitoring pied (Torresian) imperial-pigeons (Ducula bicolor), which migrate to nest on local islands in summer.

    The trail is not a graded or hardened walking track and, in some areas, is rough and difficult to traverse. It is managed under the "minimal impact bushwalking" and "no-trace camping" ethics. To help minimise impact and to maintain the wilderness setting, permits are issued for a maximum of 40 people on the trail at any one time. The largest group size is six.

    Mountain areas

    Much of the mountain area is covered with fragile heath vegetation. To protect the unspoiled nature of the mountains and in the interest of safety, walking in these areas is restricted. Any group wishing to walk into the mountains will need to apply in writing to Rainforest and Reef Information Centre, Cardwell. A topographical map and compass should be carried.

    Island habitats

    Hinchinbrook Island is renowned for its habitats. Its extensive mangrove forests are among the richest and most diverse in Australia. They are important breeding grounds for many marine animals. Other habitats include saltpans, eucalypt forest, rainforest, freshwater melaleuca swamps, heaths and sloping mountain rock pavements.

    Fire plays a vital role in maintaining habitat diversity. Much of Australia's landscape has been shaped by fire and many Australian plants have adapted to living in fire-prone areas. Some eucalypts and banksias require fire to trigger germination of seeds. Fire was used extensively by Aboriginal people to promote plant growth and clearing for access.

    Marine habitats

    Marine park waters surround Hinchinbrook Island. Habitats, including fringing reefs, seagrasses and muddy seabeds, support a wealth of marine life. Seagrass beds are the basic food source for dugong (Dugong dugon), which are seen occasionally in Missionary Bay. Adult green turtles (Chelonia mydas) frequent the Hinchinbrook area.

    Camping and accommodation

    Camping

    Seven camping areas are accessible from the Thorsborne Trail. Camping permits are required and fees apply. To help minimise impact and to maintain the wilderness setting, permits are issued for a maximum of 40 people on the trail at any one time. The largest group size is six.

    The trail is very popular and often fully booked during peak periods and school holidays. Purchasing a permit four to twelve months in advance is advised to avoid disappointment. Please notify permit offices of any cancellations so other walkers can obtain places on the trail.

    Bookings for large groups and mountain access approval must be obtained through the Rainforest and Reef Information Centre, Cardwell.

    Walkers need to plan carefully to ensure they arrive at designated campgrounds with enough time to set up camp. Camping elsewhere is not permitted.

    Other accommodation

    Accommodation is available on the mainland at Lucinda and Cardwell. Accommodation on Hinchinbrook Island includes Macushla and The Haven campgrounds and Hinchinbrook Island Wilderness Lodge and Resort. For more information see the tourism information links below.

    Things to do

    Walking

    The Thorsborne Trail is not a graded or hardened walking track and in some areas is rough and difficult to traverse. It is recommended that, prior to walking the trail, all walkers obtain a copy of the QPWS Thorsborne Trail trail guide and view the minimal impact bushwalking video Without A Trace. A list of viewing outlets for the video can be obtained from the Rainforest and Reef Information Centre, Cardwell.

    A minimum of three nights and four days is required to traverse the trail between Ramsay Bay and George Point. Return walks are possible depending on time available. Walking quickly does not allow enough time to see the area, to swim or to really enjoy the walk. The trail can be walked south from Ramsay Bay or north from George Point. The trail is marked by yellow trail markers from south to north, and orange trail markers from north to south. Rock cairns are also used in areas where trail markers are absent. The north to south direction is described here.

    The fawn-footed melomys (Melomys cervinipes) and the white-tailed rat (Uromys caudimaculatus) occur across the island. To avoid damage to packs and food supplies, remove all food from packs at night. Keep cooking utensils and food covered and off the ground surface. Rat-proof food boxes are provided at most campsites.

    Ramsay Bay to Nina Bay — 4km (2.5 hours) Grade: Difficult

    From the boardwalk, walk south to the headland at the southern end of Ramsay Bay (map reference 1). The trailhead is marked with an orange marker, located to the right of a large granite rock. The trail follows a ridge before descending to the middle of Blacksand Beach (map ref. 2). Seasonal water is generally available between January and August from the creek behind the small lagoon.

    The trail continues along the beach beneath three broad-leaved tea-trees (Melaleuca leucadendra). It then passes through tall open forest of mainly Gympie messmate (Eucalyptuscloeziana) and on to the saddle below Nina Peak (map ref. 3).

    Descending along a seasonal watercourse, the trail then enters a mangrove forest where stands of red-flowered black mangrove (Lumnitzera littorea) and spotted mangrove (Rhizophora stylosa) occur. It is best to cross the creek at low or half tide. The trail then follows the edge of the mangroves before emerging near the northern end of Nina Bay (map ref. 4).

    Campsites and a toilet are provided at Nina Bay. The most reliable fresh water can be found 100–200m upstream of the creek at the southern end of the beach.

    Nina Bay to Little Ramsay Bay — 2.5km (2 hours) Grade: Difficult

    At the southern end of Nina Bay (map ref. 4), the trail crosses a rocky section and heads towards the base of a small cliff. The trail climbs the cliff and follows the headland to Boulder Bay (map ref. 5). Green turtles (Chelonia mydas) are often seen in the sea along this section. The trail then "rock hops" around Boulder Bay to the base of the headland at the southern end. At very high tides, a detour through dense vegetation around the top of Nina headland may be necessary.

    At the southern end of Boulder Bay, orange markers indicate the trail, which travels south-east over the low ridge to the northern end of Little Ramsay Bay (map ref. 6). A good supply of fresh water can be found in the creek upstream from the lagoon. Campsites and a toilet are located at the southern side of the lagoon area.

    Little Ramsay Bay to Zoe Bay — 10.5km (6 hours) Grade: Difficult

    From Little Ramsay Bay (map ref. 6) the trail proceeds south, crossing a tidal creek and continuing to rocks at the end of the beach. The next beach is then accessed by rock hopping around the small headland. At the end of this beach, the trail leads to the upper edge of rocks above a larger sandy beach. From the southern end of this beach, the trail heads south-easterly through a small gully to the top of a ridge.

    At this point, a side path leads to Banksia Bay (map ref. 7) (600m return) and a small camping area. This bay has spectacular fringing reefs, and golden orchids (Dendrobium discolor) can be seen growing on the beachside rocks.

    The main trail continues south and descends to the Banksia Creek crossing (map ref. 8) and onwards south-east to the saddle between Banksia and Zoe bays. At the top of the saddle the trail then descends a rocky creek into the Zoe Bay catchment.

    Turning south-south-west, the trail travels to North Zoe Creek (map ref. 9) through a succession of vegetation types, from dry open forest to rainforest and mangrove swamps. The variation in rain, fire and drainage are the driving forces behind the distribution of these vegetation types.

    The trail then passes through several palm swamps in tall rainforest between North Zoe Creek (map ref. 9) and Fan Palm Creek (map ref. 10). The trail may be poorly defined in these areas. Look carefully for the trail markers.

    The most reliable water sources in this section are found where the trail crosses Fan Palm Creek (map ref. 10) and Cypress Pine Creek (map ref. 11). The rainforest here is ideal for bird watching and the deep "wallock-a-woo" call of the brightly coloured but elusive wompoo fruit-dove (Ptilinopus magnificus) can sometimes be heard from within the canopy.

    Look out for the hooked tendrils of the yellow lawyer cane (Calamus moti) and hairy mary (C. australis). These climbing palms use hook-studded branches to support growth towards the canopy. Although not poisonous, these tendrils can take a firm hold of walkers' skin, packs and clothing.

    Be prepared to get your feet wet as there are several creek crossings and swampy sections. The trail enters the beach at Zoe Bay (map ref. 12) with the mouth of South Zoe Creek about 400m to the south.

    Beach and forest campsites with toilets are located at the southern end of Zoe Bay. The spectacular Zoe Falls (map ref. 13) are a few minutes further along the track and are well worth a visit. Fresh water is available from South Zoe Creek (map ref. 14) where the trail crosses 100m downstream from Zoe Falls, or a further 100m along the trail where it crosses upstream from the falls.

    At low tide, armies of small, blue soldier crabs (Mictyris platycheles) occupy the sand flats near the mouth of South Zoe Creek. From the southern end of the beach the trail leads through magnificent rainforest featuring the orange trunks of alligatorbark (Calophyllum sil) and the tall, buttressed blue quandong (Elaeocarpus grandis). The bright blue fruits of the quandong often litter the forest floor. Large eucalypts emerge above the rainforest canopy, suggesting that this has not always been a rainforest, but that over the last few decades, the absence of fire has caused the rainforest to invade open eucalypt forest.

    Zoe Bay to Diamantina Creek — 6.5km (4 hours) Grade: Difficult

    From the Zoe Bay camping area, the trail runs parallel with South Zoe Creek (map ref. 14), crossing it about 100m downstream from Zoe Falls. It then continues up a steep slope onto the granite slabs above the falls where there are spectacular views of Zoe Bay.

    Continuing along South Zoe Creek, the trail occasionally crosses narrow rocky tributaries. It then follows a distinct spur to the granite rock pavement of a saddle. At 260m above the sea, this is the highest point on the trail. On a clear day the picturesque views include the Palm Island Group and Magnetic Island to the south.

    Tall heath communities, typical of much of the mountainous parts of Hinchinbrook Island, dominate this section of the trail. Among the many striking sights are the rare blue banksia (Banksiaplagiocarpa) with its blue-grey flowers, gnarled cones and spectacular rusty-red new foliage as well as the pink flowers of the native lasiandra (Melastoma malabathricum subsp. malabathricum). Along the creeks, coral fern (Lycopodium cernuum) and insectivorous plants like sundews (Drosera adelae and D. spatulata) line the moist banks.

    After crossing the saddle, the trail traverses steep forested slopes of the Sweetwater Creek catchment before climbing into coast she-oak (Casuarina equisetifolia) and grasstree (Xanthorrhoea johnsonii) shrubland. The grasstree's tall flower-spike produces white flowers which are rich in nectar, a popular food for many native birds and insects.

    The trail then descends into the Diamantina Creek catchment, passing a sidetrack to Sunken Reef Bay (map ref. 15), before reaching the Diamantina Creek crossing.

    Sunken Reef Bay

    Thirty minutes walk along a sidetrack takes you to Sunken Reef Bay campsite. If the water level in the large lagoon behind the beach is high, follow the southern bank out to the beach. Drinking water is available from a small creek at the northern end of the beach. During the dry season, water can be obtained from Diamantina Creek (map ref. 16). Camping behind the foredune is popular with sea kayakers and walkers. Between October and March be aware that beach stone-curlew (Esacus neglectus) and the occasional green turtle (Chelonia mydas) nest here. Remember, wood fires are not permitted.

    Diamantina Creek to Mulligan Falls camp — 1km (30 minutes) Grade: Difficult

    Use caution when crossing Diamantina Creek (map ref. 16), particularly if the creek is swollen after heavy rain. Follow the markers diagonally across the creek before the trail continues up a short slope and descends a steep hillside to reach the base of Mulligan Falls (map ref. 17).

    The vegetation in this area is typical of lowland rainforest communities found on Hinchinbrook Island. On a clear day, this section affords good views of Lucinda and the Palm Island Group. Designated campsites and facilities are available near the falls.

    Do not enter the restricted access area at the top of the falls. Death and serious injuries have occurred when people have entered this area. Rock pavements, including those well back from the falls, are extremely slippery and dangerous.

    Collect fresh water before leaving Mulligan Falls as water sources are not reliable further along the trail.

    Mulligan Falls to George Point — 7.5km (2.5 hours) Grade: Difficult

    The trail follows the coast, travelling through rainforest and crossing five creeks. The last, Moth Creek, provides only seasonal fresh water and should not be relied upon. About 300m south of the Diamantina Creek inlet, a sign indicates the northern entrance to Mulligan Bay (map ref. 18). Camping is permitted at this end of the bay. The colourful, noisy pitta (Pitta versicolor) is often seen in this area. Listen for their distinct "walk-to-work" call as they search the forest floor for snails and insects.

    George Point (map ref. 20), the southern exit of the trail, is a further 5km walk along the beach. About 2km along, Mulligan Creek flows into the bay and it is advisable to cross this creek at low to half tide. Fresh water is not available here or at George Point, at the southern end of Mulligan Bay.

    Fishing

    Fishing is prohibited in all freshwater streams, lagoons and creeks of Hinchinbrook Island National Park. Waters off the island are protected as part of the Great Barrier Reef Coast Marine Park and Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Fishing and collecting restrictions apply to the waters around Hinchinbrook Island National Park. For detailed maps and information for State waters see Great Barrier Reef Coast Marine Park and for Commonwealth waters see Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority.

    Bag and size limits also apply. For information, contact the Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol or log on to Fishweb.

    Things to know before you go

    Essentials to bring

    Walkers need to be self-reliant and self-sufficient. Pack essential equipment and bushwalking gear including:

    For safety, allow 1–2 days' extra food.

    Opening hours

    The Thorsborne Trail is open 24 hours a day but it can be closed during times of severe weather conditions (wet and dry) and prescribed burns. Changes and updates regarding all aspects of the trail are available on the booking website or from the Rainforest and Reef Information Centre, Cardwell.

    Permits and fees

    Camping permits are required for camping along the Thorsborne trail. Fees apply.

    Bookings for large groups and mountain access approval must be obtained through Rainforest and Reef Information Centre, Cardwell.

    The Thorsborne Trail is not a graded or hardened walking track and in some areas is rough and difficult to traverse. It is recommended that, prior to walking the trail, all walkers obtain a copy of the QPWS Thorsborne Trail trail guide and view the minimal impact bushwalking video Without A Trace. A list of viewing outlets for the video can be obtained from the Rainforest and Reef Information Centre, Cardwell.

    Pets

    Domestic animals are not permitted on the Thorsborne Trail.

    Climate and weather

    Daytime temperatures and humidity can be high at any time of the year and nights can be very cool. Please carry clothing that is suitable for all temperature extremes.

    Heavy rain can fall at any time of the year, causing creek levels to rise and fall rapidly. Conditions may improve after a short wait. Crossing creeks requires extreme care, particularly at Zoe and Diamantina creeks.

    April to September are the best months for hiking. This period avoids the times of year that are very wet or very dry.

    For more information see the tourism information links below.

    Fuel and supplies

    Fuel and basic supplies are available on the mainland at Cardwell and Lucinda. For more information see the tourism information links below.

    Staying safe

    Be croc-wise!

    Estuarine crocodiles are present in creeks, rivers, lagoons and along the coast of Hinchinbrook Island. Please be aware of the presence of crocodiles, as they can be dangerous to people.


    Looking after the park

    While on the trail, be constantly aware of the physical effects you are likely to have on the environment and help to limit any detrimental impacts.

    Water quality

    See the guidelines on caring for parks for more information about protecting our environment and heritage in parks.

    Park management

    Hinchinbrook Island National Park, a part of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area, is managed by the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service. Management of the World Heritage Area is co-ordinated through a partnership between the Commonwealth and Queensland governments, the Traditional Owners and the wider community. The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority co-ordinates government policies relating to funding, research, presentation and protection of this park.

    Hinchinbrook Island is managed to preserve its exceptional natural, cultural and scenic values. Over most of the island, only self-reliant, nature-based and ecologically sustainable recreation is permitted. The natural environment is conserved and remains largely undisturbed.

    A special lease covers about eight hectares in the Cape Richards area. The lease runs for a term of 75 years from 1978 and a resort has been developed on the site. The development and certain aspects of the operation of this lease are controlled by lease conditions which require QPWS approval for any construction. An agreement also exists for the resort to build and operate a sewage treatment plant.

    A management plan for Hinchinbrook Island National Park guides the management of the park.

    Tourism information links

    Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre
    The Gateway Discovery Centre
    Flinders Mall Information Centre (Townsville Enterprise Ltd)
    Tully Visitor and Heritage Centre

    For tourism information for all regions in Queensland see www.queenslandholidays.com.au.

    Further information

    Rainforest and Reef Information Centre
    • 142 Victoria Street, Cardwell
    • PO Box 74, Cardwell QLD 4849
    • ph (07) 4066 8601
    • fax (07) 4066 8116
    • email hinchinbrook.camp@epa.qld.gov.au
    • A partnership between QPWS and the Cardwell Shire Council,
      managed by Great Green Way Tourism Incorporated
    EPA Customer Service Centre
    • 160 Ann Street, Brisbane
    • PO Box 15155, City East QLD 4002
    • ph (07) 3227 8185
    • fax (07) 3227 8749
    • email csc@epa.qld.gov.au

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    Last updated: 18 June 2009