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Upper Gorge Walk, Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park
Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park Mount Isa Queensland 4825 Australia www.nprsr.qld.gov.auAbout
Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park is one of Queensland's most scenic national parks. Situated within the remote north-west highlands of Queensland, the park features spectacular gorge country, sandstone ranges and World Heritage fossils. Lawn Hill Gorge is formed by Lawn Hill Creek, which is fed by numerous freshwater springs from the limestone plateau to the west. The magnitude of the sandstone cliffs lining the gorge, its emerald waters and lush vegetation make it a visual splendour. Serving as an oasis, the spring water and surrounding vegetation attract an abundance of wildlife. The Waanyi Aboriginal people have strong cultural ties with the park while pastoralists of European descent have more recent historical connections. Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park lies on ancient sandstone of the Constance Range, between the Barkly Tablelands to the south-west and the black soils of the Gulf Savanna Plains to the east. Lawn Hill Creek and the Gregory and O'Shanassy rivers flow all year round, providing a stark contrast to the dry, parched landscape during the dry season. Enjoy the spectacular scenery of the upper gorge on foot or by canoe. By foot, follow the track from the eastern end of the camping area into the gorge, and then stroll back along the creek edge to encounter a diversity of plant and animal life. This loop walk is recommended for experienced bushwalkers and should only be undertaken in the early morning. Keep to the walking track at all times. Stay clear of cliffs and steep rock faces and take care on uneven slippery track surfaces. Upper Gorge track Grade: difficult. Distance: 7 kilometres return. Time: allow 3.5 hours walking time. By canoe, Paddly upstream from the canoe hire landing to the spectacular orange sandstone walls of the Middle Gorge and continue to Indarri Falls. Use the portage track to carry your canoe around the falls to continue upstream. Do not climb on the falls—you can destroy years of natural tufa deposits. Paddle a further 1.3 kilometres to reach the Upper Gorge. It is not possible to canoe much further than the Upper Gorge lookout as the creek dwindles into a series of channels and rapids, thick with pandanus. Return the way you came. Upper Gorge paddle Distance: 6 kilometres return. Time: allow 3 hours paddling time. Carry plenty of drinking water to avoid dehydration. Drinking water straight from Lawn Hill Creek can make you very thirsty because of the high levels of calcium carbonate. It is strongly advised that walkers set out in the early hours of the morning. Always carry water, wear a hat and sturdy footwear. Wear sunscreen, particularly when in the gorge, as the sun's reflection off the water can burn skin rapidly. Be croc wise. Freshwater crocodiles inhabit the park and are often seen in Lawn Hill Creek. Walk between April and September to avoid wet and dry weather extremes.
