TRAVELLING AUSTRALIA - WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT PORCUPINE GORGE
Porcupine Gorge is a popular tourist destination in Queensland, Australia. It is a beautiful place for those Travelling Australia who love nature and being outdoors. There are many things to do at Porcupine Gorge, from hiking the trails with scenic views to bird watching or taking a dip in the waterfalls. The gorge features many different types of wildlife that can be spotted along the way! If you're looking for everything about Porcupine Gorge then keep reading!
We were up early to catch the sunrise over Porcupine Gorge. It was just lovely! Located approximately 70 km north of Hughenden in Queensland's National Park, this hidden gem is easily accessible for day trips or longer stays. Access to Porcupine Gorge National Park is by a fully sealed road from Hughenden, following the Kennedy Developmental Road north. The Gorge Lookout is 63km north of Hughenden and the Pyramid Campground, Rim Walk and Gorge Walk are another 11km further north. The Camps 12 guidebook will help when planning your visit.
HISTORY
Porcupine Gorge National Park is a hidden canyon with no evidence of its existence until you reach the edge of the gorge. The impressive rocks date back millions of years, with layers of basalt and colourful sandstone. Carved over time, the strata of sedimentary rock have been formed from lava flows and eroded over millions of years. Dense vegetation surrounds the gorge and along the waterways. Beautiful birds and animals are abundant.
It is thought that the Gorge received its name due to the spear grass in the area that resembles the spikes on an echidna. It is also possible that there may have been a lot of echidnas in the area.
CAMPGROUNDS
We were fortunate to book a site for our van and stayed one night. There are only 22 camping sites that are relatively level and spacious. You must be self-sufficient as there is no power, water or facilities. Bookings (see below) must be done before you arrive at the campgrounds so plan ahead as you don't want to miss this popular destination. Wallabies and Kangaroos can be spotted around dusk or dawn. A small hopping animal called a Bettong will come around at night looking for food.
THE TREK
Due to the heat of September, we chose to get up early and watch the sunrise over the gorge. What a great decision! The light crept over the horizon and slowly shone, highlighting the beauty of nature. We then descended the steep rocky track, to explore the gorge. We were the only ones there and it was pretty special. The DJI Drone went up and we were able to capture some great footage. The sun shone brightly on the Pyramid rock...what a sight! It was a little too cool for us to swim in the early morning, so if this is something you want to do, maybe go later in the day. Be mindful that it gets pretty hot!
We spent a couple of hours exploring the abundant life down in the gorge. Grevilleas, melaleucas and other vegetation, birds, butterflies and lizards are scattered among the rockpools and rocky crevices. Wear your hiking shoes (we have Merrell Hiking Boots) as you will be moving over some very uneven ground. It is a good idea to also take a backpack to carry some snacks and water to keep your energy levels up.
After exploring the rock pools and enjoying the natural rock formations we were ready to tackle the steep climb back up to the top. The walk back up is a little more difficult, so once again, take your time. It is only 1.2km long but feels much further. There are plenty of spots to stop, rest and enjoy the view of the million-year-old rock formations. Porcupine Gorge is another hidden treasure as we continue Travelling Australia.
THE GORGE CAN BE EXPLORED FROM TWO SPECIFIC AREAS:
THE LOOKOUT
The first point is a lookout where you can view the expanse of the Gorge below. The Gorge lookout carpark is 1.5km from the turn-off. It is an easy 200m walk from the car park down a sealed path to a viewing platform. There is no access to the base of the Gorge from this point.
THE CAMPSITE
The second point is a National Park campsite a further 11km North called Pyramid Camping Grounds. Camping sites can be booked online, by phone (13 74 68), or at the Flinders Discovery Centre in Hughenden.
WALKING
Gorge walk — 2.4km return (Allow 1.5 hours) Grade: Moderate
Starting from the Pyramid campground, the track is steep but well constructed with a gravel path where it is level and well-formed rock steps where it gets steep. Some sections take a bit of caution to negotiate, so wear solid shoes. The walk down is interesting and the view is wonderful, so take your time! Don't forget to stop and look up as you negotiate the rocky steps.
THE GORGE
Once in the gorge, rocky platforms provide a natural pathway along a small set of rock pools. At certain times of the year, Porcupine Creek may not be flowing due to the lack of rain. The towering sandstone cliffs are magnificent with layers of colours. The outstanding feature of the gorge is the natural Pyramid, a massive rock of multi-coloured sandstone. There is a deep pool at the base of the pyramid and this is the perfect spot for a swim!
KEY POINTS
Location - 74km North of Hughenden, which lies 449km west of Townsville.
Getting there and getting around - The Kennedy Development road to Porcupine Gorge is fully sealed. This road could have cattle, wildlife and road trains. Check road conditions at the Flinders Discovery Centre before travelling to Porcupine Gorge, as weather can quickly impact the road.
Camp Site Bookings:
http://www.nprsr.qld.gov.au
by phoning 13 QGOV (13 74 68) or
The Flinders Discovery Centre is an agent for National Park bookings.
During holiday periods, you will need to book several weeks in advance. Please note there is no self-registration available at Porcupine Gorge National Park.
Camp Features:
$7.25 per person, per night; (2024 fees)
Toilets;
Picnic tables;
Walking tracks;
2WD access;
Tents, Campers, Caravans, Motorhomes & Buses;
NO pets, drinking water or Telstra reception.
CONCLUSION
Porcupine Gorge offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to escape into the beauty of Queensland's outback. From the dramatic landscapes carved over millions of years to the vibrant wildlife that calls this hidden gem home, it’s a destination that leaves a lasting impression. Whether you're watching the sunrise over the Pyramid or cooling off in the gorge’s pristine waters, Porcupine Gorge is a place of quiet beauty and adventure that captures the spirit of the Australian wilderness.
Ready to explore Porcupine Gorge for yourself? Start planning your trip today! Don’t forget to book your campsite in advance, pack your hiking gear, and immerse yourself in this awe-inspiring natural wonder. If you've already visited, share your experience in the comments below – we'd love to hear your adventure stories!
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