Amphitheatre
Central Highlands
Carnarvon National Park
An incredible 60m deep chamber hidden inside the gorge walls, formed by thousands of years of running water.
This moderately trafficked walk branches off the Main Gorge Track in Carnarvon National Park.
The Amphitheatre is located 3.7 kilometres along the main gorge track and is a 450m one-way side-track involving steps, a creek crossing, and a metal ladder used to enter the site.
This open-topped cavern is an awe-inspiring location of natural architecture formed by thousands of years of water erosion.
A tiered metal ladder provides access to the site, as you walk through a narrow crevice to the 60m deep chamber hidden inside the cliff.
A boardwalk helps to protect the fragile moss and ferns that blanket the sandstone floor. It is essential to not stray from the boardwalk.
The Amphitheatre is best visited as part of the main gorge track, of which there is a short version and a long version, both of which visit popular other locations such as Moss Garden, Art Gallery and Wards Canyon.
Track: The main gorge track is a mostly flat, well-maintained graded path, with occasional steps and footbridges, and large stepping-stones at each of the creek crossings. The side-track to the Amphitheatre is steeper, involving steps, a creek crossing, and a tiered metal ladder used to access the site. The track is well-signed and easy to follow.
Difficulty: The track is suitable for all fitness levels with sufficient time. The creek crossings typically have large stepping-stones, but these can be slippery and may present an issue for people with balance issues. The water depth at the creek crossings is usually only ankle deep, but the rocks under the water are often very slippery. Sturdy shoes with good grip and hiking poles are highly recommended.
Direction: This is an out-and-back track that returns the way it came.
getting there
The trailhead is located near the Visitor Centre at the end of Carnarvon Gorge Road. The visitor centre is located 8.5 hours drive north-west of Brisbane, 7 hours drive west of Bundaberg and 3 hours north of Roma.
It is recommended to break up the drive to the park and consider the impact of fatigue on driving safety. Many of the roads leading to the park are rural roads prone to wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk.
Parking is ample at the Visitor Centre, however it can get busy during peak periods.
best time to go
The walk can be completed year-round. Given the nature of the terrain, the area is prone to flooding after rain. Be sure to check the Queensland Parks website for updates regarding flooding and track closures.
Remember, whenever venturing into the outdoors, practice the Leave No Trace principles and be considerate of others. This means: dispose of your waste properly, don't remove things or move things from their natural position and respect all wildlife. Also be sure to plan ahead and adequately prepare for any adventure.
I respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which all activities listed on this website are found, as well as Elders past, present and emerging. I strive to not promote sites where requests have been made for people not to explore due to the cultural significance of the site to Indigenous peoples, or note how to respectfully visit a site. If I have a promoted a site with cultural significance, please send me a message and let me know.