Boolimba Bluff
Central Highlands
Carnarvon National Park
A steep walk to an incredible lookout – dubbed “the roof of Queensland’ – with breathtaking views into the gorge and out to the distant ranges.
This moderately trafficked walk branches off the Main Gorge Track (at the 1.1km mark) in Carnarvon National Park.
Exit the main track and continue through bushland, looking up at the bluff you are about to climb up too.
The challenging walk has prolonged, very steep sections, including over 300 steps and a number of steel ladders, so requires fitness, time, or both to complete. Look for the large sandstone overhang cavern on the way up.
The reward is incredible views from the bluff, which sits 200m above Carnarvon Creek on the top of the gorge. It is easy to understand why this location is dubbed “the roof of Queensland”.
There are a number of vantage points at the bluff, so take your time admiring the view from each one.
Look out over the Kooramindangie Plain towards the distant ranges, including Mount Ramsay, Clematis Ridge, Expedition Range, Thukadabiddi and the Mooleyamber section.
Or look down into the gorge get a birds-eye view of how Carnarvon Creek snakes its way through the park.
Interpretive signs at the bluff provide information about the geology of the gorge.
The bluff is particularly beautiful at sunrise and the hour following it, as the sun casts a warm glow on the sandstone cliffs on the other side of the gorge.
It is recommended to do this trail as a separate walk to the Main Gorge Track, given the substantial elevation gain.
Track: The track begins with a well-maintained graded path, before a prolonged steep climb to the bluff via many rocky steps and metal ladders. The track is well-signed and easy to follow.
Difficulty: The track requires moderate fitness, as well as good balance for the prolonged steep rocky step sections. That said, most people should be able to complete this walk provided they give themselves enough time and tread with care.
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. The area at the beginning of the track 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.