Mount Sorrow Ridge Trail
Cape Tribulation, Cairns Area

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info@derm.qld.gov.au
www.derm.qld.gov.au

Description

The Mount Sorrow ridge trail provides opportunities for fit, experienced and well-prepared bushwalkers to experience rainforest-clad slopes and spectacular views from an elevation of 680 metres.

The trail starts in a lowland rainforest valley, featuring trees with large buttress roots and a canopy woven with large woody vines. As the ridge ascends, the trail moves into upland rainforest and the stout, feather-leafed palm (Oraniopsis appendiculata) becomes more common. Look for Boyd's forest dragons perching on trees quite close to the trail. On the ridge, the vegetation is dominated by acacias (wattles). The wind-sheared forest canopy becomes lower and more open towards the mountain summit.

From the lookout, spangled drongos and small flocks of topknot pigeons can be observed in the air, while a variety of butterflies drift around on the wind. On a clear day, the beautiful Daintree coastline can be seen stretching southwards to Snapper Island and beyond, and the shadows of the individual reefs that make up the Great Barrier Reef can be glimpsed in the ocean.

About the Walk

7 kilometres
6-7 hours
Full Day Walk
Hard
Circuit
The start of the marked trail is signposted on the Bloomfield Road, 150 metres north of Kulki/Cape Tribulation day use area turn-off. A gravel parking spot is located directly opposite the start of the trail.

Walk Highlights

• Island and reef views
• Lowland rainforest
• Feather-leafed palms

Walk Hints

This is a steep and difficult trail. Walkers need to be fit, self-reliant and well prepared.

Always keep to the marked trail, as walkers have been lost here. Always tell someone else of your walking plans and when you expect to return.

Do not attempt this walk when the weather is humid, very hot or in wet cloudy because the trail becomes slippery and the views are obscured.

Walkers should carry 3 to 4 litres of water for the climb.

The area in which Daintree National Park is located has one of the wettest climates in Australia. During the wet season, from December to April, there are heavy, frequent downpours. Wear sturdy footwear and carry waterproof clothing if there is any possibility of rain. Leeches are usually present in leaf litter and wet vegetation. For protection against leeches wear enclosed footwear and long pants.

Best Time To Go

The cooler and drier months, from May to September, are the best time to visit.

Property Details

Facilities

• Access With Assistance for the Disabled
• Car park
• Public toilet
• Walking Tracks

Activities

• Animal Watching
• Birdwatching
• Walking

Other Information

Further Details:
The cooler and drier months, from May to October, are the best time to visit. The Mount Sorrow ridge trail should only be attempted in daylight hours — plan your walk so that you return before nightfall. Walking this trail is not recommended in very hot weather. Features of the Mount Sorrow Ridge Trail include: Island and reef views, lowland rainforest and feather-leafed palms. The track is 3.5 kilometres long, with a hard degree of difficulty and will take between five and six hours to complete.

The Mount Sorrow ridge trail is not for everyone. Although marked, walkers have been lost in this area. You must be prepared for a very steep and difficult trail with log scrambling required in some places. Only experienced bushwalkers with above average fitness should attempt this trail.
Distance markers have been placed at one kilometre intervals along the walk to help you monitor your progress. Walkers should set off early in the morning, before 10.00 a.m. to take advantage of the cooler temperatures and to ensure a safe return. Allow three hours of daylight for the return journey. Ensure that someone is aware of where you are going and when you expect to return.

How To Get There:
Travel 104 kilometres north of Cairns via the Cook Highway to the Daintree River crossing. Beyond the ferry, conventional two-wheel-drive access is possible as far as Cape Tribulation, although high clearance is useful and towing caravans is not recommended. The road through this section of the park is narrow and winding. Drivers should take care to keep left and watch for wildlife frequently crossing the road, particularly cassowaries.

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