Joanna James
Cairns may be known as a coastal treasure, but make sure you head inland to find unspoiled sceneries and rainforests, which have survived for centuries. Here are 5 rainforest hikes in Cairns you must undertake for a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Barron Falls is among the most spectacular and accessible jungle treks around Cairns. A 42-minute drive from Oaks Cairns Hotel will bring you to the magnificent waterfall. This brilliant route takes you over 7-8 kilometres of tall eucalyptus woods, through the remains of the Kuranda railroad construction camps, and past some ancient mango trees. The ease of finding hotel accommodation in Cairns around here makes Barron Falls a great hit among tourists.
This path will not only take visitors to Queensland's highest point, but also Josephine Falls, a cherished local landmark. The Mount Bartle Frere hike begins at the beautiful waterfall and takes around 6 to 8 hours to reach the peak. Attempt the Goldfield Trail if you would like a challenge. With 19 kilometres of trail, it connects Bartle Frere with Bellenden Ker, Queensland's two highest peaks.
Firstly, this is the junction where the sea meets forest or vice versa. The Fitzroy Island is only a 45-minute boat trip from Cairns and has jungle paths going to beaches, rock formations, and also takes you to the summit of the island. Summit trail offers panoramic views of the coastlines, reefs, and rainforests. You may detour to see the lighthouse. Make the most out of the island's many peaks and treks by spending the night here.
Mossman Gorge is a popular attraction in Daintree National Park. The Mossman River flows over moss-covered granite rocks in the lower canopy of the forest. The Mossman Gorge Centre is located 77 kilometres north of Cairns and gives insight into the region's heritage and indigenous culture. To arrive at the beautiful Mossman Gorge, take a 10-minute boardwalk right through the verdant rainforests. If you do not really mind heights, the 2.4-kilometre Rex Creek suspension bridge circuit is a must-see.
While driving north to Cape Tribulation, take a quick break at the Daintree Discovery Centre to learn much more about the oldest rainforest in the world. Mount Sorrow, in particular, demands our attention. It may seem glum, but the vistas and landscape are really breathtaking. The walk takes approximately 5 hours for a round trip, so be prepared to sweat. This is a thrilling climb that involves scrambling over fallen trees, rocks, and steep terrains.
Note: Bring water, wear long pants and long sleeves since the weather on the mountain is unpredictable.
Well, did you know that a small mammal or maybe a small bird dropped a fig plant seed here over 500 years ago and have given rise to the magnificent Curtain Fig National Park? Isn't that incredible? A historic fig tree, fifty metres high and thirty-nine metres in diameter, is the park's namesake. A mythical veil of aerial roots surrounds the tree. Watch for the Lumholtz tree kangaroo when you are here. These magnificent animals only live in the Atherton Tablelands' woods and resemble a possum-kangaroo hybrid. These rainforest treks are just an hour away from Cairns.
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