Bartle Frere Trail (Western approach)
Cairns, Cairns Area

Free Entry - Entry Information

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

Description

Suitable only for fit, experienced and well-prepared bushwalkers, the 15 kilometre Bartle Frere trail extends from the Atherton Tableland to the coastal plain across the impressive Bellenden Ker Range. Crossing Wooroonooran National Park, it ascends the summit of Queensland's highest mountain, Bartle Frere (1622 metres) on the way.

This, the western approach, starts at an altitude of 700 metres. A short distance from the start of the trail at Junction camp is a turnoff to picturesque Bobbin Bobbin Falls. The trail to the North West Peak (1476 metres) is steep with occasional rock scrambles. It continues to Western Summit camp, set in a small clearing beside a creek. From here the trail becomes a rock scramble over and through granite boulders to the summit, with views (when clear) to the coast and across the Atherton Tableland.

About the Walk

15 kilometres
2 days (12 hours in total)
Multi-Day Walk
Hard
Return
The trackhead, at The Junction Camp, (just before the turn off to Bobbin Bobbin Falls) is marked by a sign post. The trail starts at an altitude of 700 metres and rises to 1622 metres at the summit, an average gradient of 1 in 8.
From the summit, walkers can either return or continue to Josephine Falls.

Walk Highlights

• Coastal and tableland views
• World Heritage Area
• Queensland's highest peak
• Majestic waterfalls
• Spectacular views
• Diverse vegetation

Walk Hints

This 15 kilometre mountain rainforest trek is extremely demanding. It should only be undertaken by experienced bushwalkers.

It is recommended that you allow two days for the ascent to the summit and back to either the west or east (Josephine Falls) sides. If you plan on a one day return trip, remember that it will take approximately 12 hours and need a very early start.

There are two overnight campsites. Remember that you will need to obtain a permit if you wish to camp overnight on Bartle Frere. Self registration forms available at the beginning of the walk should also be filled in by all walkers.

Preparation is important for all hiking on Mt Bartle Frere, as it is likely you will encounter variable weather conditions. These may include heavy rainfall, reduced visibility from cloud, cold temperatures and sudden weather changes.

Bartle Frere West is accessed from the Atherton Tablelands. The trackhead is marked by a sign post and indicated by orange markers along the trail. Take correct maps and a compass.

Carry adequate food and water. No fires are permitted, so bring a fuel stove.

Walkers should be careful not to brush against spiky wait-a-while vines and the heart shaped leaf of stinging trees.

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.

Some sections of walking tracks may be closed during the wet season, between October and May.

Best Time To Go

Visit between April and October when the weather and track conditions are at their best.

Property Details

Facilities

• Car park
• Public toilet
• Walking Tracks

Activities

• Animal Watching
• Birdwatching
• Walking

Other Information

Further Details:
Visit between May and October when the weather and track conditions are at their best. The summit can be very cold and windy. Highlights of the Bartle Frere Trail (Western Approach) include: coastal and tableland views, world heritage area, Queensland's highest peak, spectacular views and diverse vegetation. The track is 15 kilometres long, has a hard degree of difficulty and will take approximately two days to complete.
This 15 kilometre mountain rainforest trek is extremely demanding. It should only be undertaken by experienced bushwalkers. It is recommended that you allow two days for the ascent to the summit and return to Junction camp, or to continue on to Josephine Falls on the eastern side. Temperatures on the mountain are around 10 degrees lower than on the coast but, with strong winds, can drop below zero. The mountain can cloud in suddenly and rainstorms are common all year round. Rain, cold and poor visibility can make camping and bushwalking uncomfortable and potentially unsafe.

How To Get There:
The steep walk to the Bartle Frere summit from the west begins at Atherton Tableland. Take Eacham Road to Topaz Road. Pass Butcher Creek and then take a left turn onto the gravel road to Lamins Hill Lookout. Follow the signs to the end of Gourka Road (seven kilometres). Access beyond this point is by four wheel drive only. The Junction Camp, two kilometres along the track, marks the start of the walking trail.

Free Entry