Alligator Creek flows through Bowling Green Bay National Park in a series of cascades, deep pools and waterfalls.
The track to Alligator Falls meanders roughly parallel to the creek through the open forest to Hidden Valley. Discarded machinery is a rusty reminder of a failed farming enterprise. Across the creek the valley narrows, with Mount Elliot and Saddle Mountain framing the landscape.
The final section of the walk is through a rocky vine thicket from which the track suddenly emerges near the falls. Tropical rainforest grows towards the summit of Mount Elliot, the highest peak in the park. Open forests and woodlands, riverine vegetation, mangroves and coastal vegetation also grow in the park.
ABOUT THE WALK
Distance: 17 kilometres
Duration: 5 hours
Category:
Full Day Walk
Difficulty: Moderate
Type: Circuit
Start Point: The southern end of the picnic area, 500m from the car park.
Walk Highlights
- Mountain scenery
- Cascading waterfalls
- Clear-flowing creeks
Walk Hints
Wear a hat and sunscreen. Carry drinking water.
Take care on wet rocks, as they are often slippery.
Best Time To Go
It is best to visit during the cooler months of the year, from April to September, when daytime temperatures range between 25 and 29 degrees Celsius and there is little rainfall.
CONTACT DETAILS
Phone:
07 4722 5224
Email: tsv.infocentre@epa.qld.gov.au
Web:
www.epa.qld.gov.au/projects/park/index.cgi?parkid=143
ENTRY INFORMATION
Free Entry:
Yes.
FURTHER INFORMATION
How to get There
Turn off the Bruce Highway 28 kilometres south of Townsville or 59 kilometres north of Ayr. Drive 6 kilometres to the park. Watch for wildlife between dusk and dawn.
