Rising abruptly above the surrounding plains, Blackdown Tableland National Park is a cool oasis. Covering approximately 47,950 hectares, this sandstone plateau boasts colourful wildlife, spectacular views and a range of nature-based activities.
Blackdown is the traditional home of the Ghungalu people, who have visited this place for thousands of years and have left behind rock art; vivid reminders of their special culture.
what to do
WALKING
- Yaddamen Dhina lookout track (pictured): A 200m, five-minute walk from the carpark. The gently sloping sealed track is even wheelchair accessible.
- Gudda Gumoo lookout track: On this 3.6km return walk, gaze across the gorge to distant plains and hills and learn about the significance of Moonda Gudda to the Ghungalu people. Retrace your steps or continue onto the gorge walk (details below). Moderate fitness is required. Track includes short, steep slopes, some stairs and loose surfaces. Allow 1.5 hours.
- Gudda Gumoo gorge track: Follow the lookout track and continue on another 400m to Gudda Gumoo gorge. See water spill over sandstone ledges as it flows down and through the gorge. A higher level fitness is required, with 240 stairs to the base of the waterfall and loose surfaces. Allow 2 hours.
- Goodela – Yaddamen Dhina track. This follows the escarpment from the Yaddamen Dhina lookout, winding through eucalypt forest then delicate ferns and mosses, with beautiful views of the bluffs and valley below. Reasonable fitness is required. Allow 1 hour.
- Mook Mook track. This 2.4km return walk begins opposite the turn-off into the Munall camping area. Follow the track across Mimosa Creek and over gentle ridges to a lookout on the edge of the tableland, which provides views of the sandstone cliffs and distant ranges.
- Find more walks here.
other favourites
- Four-Wheel-Driving Follow the Loop Road, pass magnificent sandstone outcrops, alive with basket ferns and king orchids, then stop at Mitha Boongulla lookout for great views of the surrounding plains. Suitable for high clearance 4WD vehicles only.
- Viewing Wildlife By day, look carefully on sandstone ledges for basking skinks, geckos and goannas. By night, take a torchlight stroll to glimpse gliders, owls and insectivorous bats taking to the air. The best way to see Blackdown’s birdlife is to wake with them at Munall camping area.
ESSENTIALS
- The 6km sealed road up the tableland is steep and winding so is unsuitable for towing heavy trailers or caravans.
- Picnic Areas Picnic tables, gas barbecues and toilets are provided for day visitors at Yaddamen Dhina lookout.
- Camping Relax in Munall campground’s cool and quiet bush surrounding. Close to popular walking tracks, it is a great place to make your base. Camping permits are essential and bookings must be made in advance (sites are limited) at the Visitor Information Centre in Emerald or online with Queensland National Parks. Campground map.
HANDY LINKS
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PHOTO CREDITS: Jesse Lindemann, Instagram @roadtripinatriton