Porcupine Gorge is a stunning part of our region to take in. An amazing place to explore and enjoy, the Gorge provides an excellent backdrop for some much-needed rest and relaxation. This article will explore just three of our favourite things to do at Porcupine Gorge National Park.
Camp
What better way to take in this beautiful National Park then to spend a night camping and enjoying its pure and unfiltered serenity. Pyramid Campground is located in Porcupine Gorge National Park and is the perfect base for exploring the diverse landscapes of the Gorge. Access to the campground is from the Kennedy Development Road, approximately 75km north of Hughenden. This road is fully sealed, however there is a short drive into the campground from the highway that is unsealed.
There are only 8 van sites and 14 tent sites campsites, so book early to avoid disappointment. Facilities are basic toilets and showers and picnic shelters. There is no drinking water at the site so ensure you take plenty of drinking water. Campsites will need to be booked through Queensland National Parks or the Flinders Discovery Centre https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/camping/bookings .There is no mobile phone reception at the site, so you will be able to switch off from technology and enjoy the night sky, which will not disappoint. Don’t be alarmed with a little rustling on site, as it is likely to be a cute little marsupial called a Rat Kangaroo that becomes active as the sun goes down.
Take advantage of an overnight stay to make an early start to hike down into the gorge. Pack plenty of water and snacks and wear hiking shoes. Have your camera charged and ready to go as the delicate wildflowers against the backdrop the rocky outcrops on the hike down can make for an excellent photo. The trail down to the bottom of the gorge is 1.1km but allow double your time coming back up the trail, particularly if it is hot. If your less adventurous, there are several trails at the top of the gorge, that don’t require any hiking and provide great vantage points for views and photos.
Aside from the trails, it is a great place for birdwatching, digesting a good book or trying your hand at landscape sketching. The most spectacular way to see the gorge and really appreciate its grandeur is from the air, and Fox Helicopters offer scenic flights over the gorge, departing from their landing site at the campground gates. These flights must be booked in advance. To make a booking call 0409 266 162 or book online at https://foxhelicopterservices.com.au
Swim
Throughout the stunning sandstone cliffs and formations of the gorge, there are a number of small billabongs, water holes, and even the occasional waterfall (during the rainy season), providing the ideal opportunity to cool off and relax in the water, not to mention the naturally formed and stone sunbeds perfect for soaking up some rays. At the base of the pyramid rock formation, there is a natural spring which provides a waterhole all year round. Swimming trunks or a change of clothes and a towel are a must-have for any vacation to this magnificent national park, especially if you plan on staying a while.
Explore
There’s a lot to explore inside the gorge, and for nature lovers, there’s plenty to see, from the defiant plants that grow out of the rockface to the array of birds, butterflies, and lizards. Wallabies and kangaroos may also be seen in the area, however, they’re more to be spotted at dusk and early morning – so you may want to consider camping.
If hiking, ensure you take plenty of water and snacks. Wear a hat as it can get hot during the day, even in the winter months. Avoid hiking alone as there is no mobile phone coverage at the gorge. The length of the gorge is 25km and the campground is positioned just north of the middle section, so you can explore both ways.
Any excursion to the valley begins with a 1.1km walk from the gorge’s top to bottom. Don’t be fooled by the fact that the trek down is rather simple. It’s a steep climb back up, and takes a lot more effort than it appears – so please factor that into your plans. Starting out on the impressive sandstone cliffs, you’ll be met by a cool, fresh flowing creek once you get reach the base of the gorge. It’s a true oasis in the middle of nowhere!
Once at the bottom of the track you can hike either north or south. Hike north and the creek will take you to the Pyramid Rock, named for its resemblance to the Egyptian Pyramid. There is a permanent swimming hole at the base which is fed by spring artesian water. Heading south look out for the landmark features that the locals nickname the Japanese gardens, and the waterfall (featured in Australian Survivor Blood vs Water Series). The waterfall only runs in the wet season, but the drop is impressive in the dry as well. Most of the hiking at the bottom of the gorge is fairly easy, however depending on the season, you may need to scramble around some boulders after rain if the creek is full.
And that’s only a few of the reasons to check out this gorgeous piece of Outback Queensland. If you need any more information on Porcupine Gorge feel free to get in contact with the Flinders Discovery Centre who can provide you with up-to-date weather and road conditions.
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