Queensland Holidays - The Official Tourism Site for Queensland
Taroom
Queensland 4420 Australia
Shepherd's Peak Trail
Taroom,
Banana Area
Free Entry
Description
From Starkvale campsite, walk the trail to Shepherd's Peak for views over the surrounding creeks and peaks of Expedition National Park. The trail continues down from Shepherd's Peak to the Cattle Dip, Bottlebrush Waterhole, Carlia Gorge, Starkvale Creek and returns to Starkvale campsite.
This trail is not a graded walking track. Take extreme care on top of Shepherd&##039;s Peak as there are crevasses and unguarded cliffs. Expect some short, steep grades and rough underfoot surfaces. Sections of this trail are in a watercourse and in Starkvale Creek where no trail construction has been undertaken.
... moreThe park is home to several rare plant species including Eucalyptus rubiginosa and Leucopogon grandiflorus. For thousands of years, Aboriginal people lived in this area, leaving behind stencil art and other sacred sites. Listen for the musical calls of grey fantails that twist and turn in impressive insect-catching displays.
... lessAbout the Walk
Walk Highlights
- Spotted gum forest
- Aboriginal stencil art
- Sheer sandstone cliffs
- Narrow winding gorges
- Permanent waterhole
- Rewarding views
Walk Hints
The trail to Shephards Peak is not a graded walking track. Take extreme care on top of Shephard's Peak as there are crevasses and unguarded cliffs and be aware that sandstone can crumble.
Expect some short, steep grades and rough underfoot surfaces. Navigation in the park is difficult due to lack of landmarks.
Wear sturdy footwear, a hat and sunscreen and carry sufficient water.
Best Time To Go
April to October is the best time to visit, beautiful wildflowers bloom through winter and spring. Rains during summer months can make access difficult and daytime temperatures can reach 45 degrees.
Property Details
Facilities
-
BBQ Facilities -
Picnic Area -
Public toilet -
Walking Tracks
Activities
-
Animal Watching -
Birdwatching -
Walking
Other Information
General Comments
Highlights of Shepherd's Peak Trail include: spotted gum forest, aboriginal stencil art, sheer sandstone cliffs, narrow winding gorges, permanent waterhole and rewarding views. The trail is approximately eight kilometres long and will take between three and five hours. This trail is classified as hard and you should be physically fit to try it.
The trail to Shephard's Peak is not a graded walking track. Take extreme care on top of Shephard's Peak as there are crevasses and unguarded cliffs and be aware that sandstone can crumble. Expect some short, steep grades and rough underfoot surfaces.
How To Get There
Expedition is 128 kilometres or two hours north-west of Taroom. Travel 18 kilometres north of Taroom on the Leichhardt Highway, then turn left at the Bauhinia Downs Road. Turn left 2 kilometres further on towards Glenhaughton and Reedy Creek. Continue 86 kilometres to the turnoff to the park.
Starkvale Creek is a further 23 kilometres.
Alternatively, turn off the Dawson Highway 1 kilometres east of Bauhinia Downs and follow the Mapala-Fairfield Road for 93 kilometres. Turn right at Oil Bore Road. Continue 7 kilometres before turning left and driving a further 16 kilometres.
Free Entry
* Please note: These rates are indicative based on the minimum and maximum available costs of listed products and services. To obtain a firm price from the provider, please use the contact the operator. All prices are quoted in Australian dollars.