Nandroya Falls Circuit Track, Wooroonooran National Park
Cairns, Cairns Area

The Palmerston section of Wooroonooran National Park is included in the traditional lands of the Ma:Mu Aboriginal people. At the heart of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, it is a place of very high biodiversity, due to the high rainfall and fertile soils derived from basalt rocks. More than 500 rainforest tree species grow here and the area also has a profusion of epiphytes (plants that grow on other plants without harming them) including ferns, mosses and basket ferns. This intermingling of plant species creates a haven for wildlife, such as the little musky rat-kangaroo, the double-eyed fig-parrot and the endemic chowchilla.

The Nandroya Falls circuit track is one of several access points along the Palmerston Highway allowing walkers to explore the ancient rainforest of the southern end of Wooroonooran National Park. At Nandroya Falls, Douglas Creek drops in a narrow, uninterrupted, 50 metre fall from a basalt parapet. Cross the footbridge at the west of the Henrietta Creek camping area. From here it is 2.2 kilometres to the falls by the shortest route. After a short distance the track divides. The branch on the left leads directly to Nandroya Falls, a distance from here of 1.7 kilometres. It winds along the upper valley of Douglas Creek, passing the pretty, 10 metre high Silver Creek Falls on the way. The right-hand branch is a longer 3.5 kilometres route to the falls. Those wishing to do a circuit walk can return by the alternative route.

Keep to the walking track at all times and wear sturdy, reliable footwear.

Grade: moderate.

Distance: 6 kilometres return.

Time: allow 2-3 hours walking time for the full circuit.

About the Walk

Walk Highlights

• Picturesque waterfalls
• Clear-flowing streams
• Ancient rainforest

Walk Hints

The Nandroya Falls Circuit begins to the west of the Henrietta Creek camping area. You can either cross the creek or walk along the highway and across the bridge to reach the trackhead.

The track has been recently upgraded and is well formed with gentle grades. It can be walked separately or as part of a longer walk from Henrietta Creek to Tchupala Falls Trackhead and possibly on to Crawfords Lookout and the North Johnstone River.

Wear a hat, sunscreen and insect repellent to protect yourself from leeches. Take plenty of drinking water.

Daytime temperatures and humidity can be high at any time of the year and nights can be very cool. Please carry suitable clothing to accommodate all extremes.

Best Time To Go

To ensure your visit is fun and comfortable, try to visit between April and October when the weather and track conditions are at their best.