Carnarvon Gorge: Gorgeous Days (Part 1)
On the drive into Carnarvon Gorge, we stumbled across the C-47B Dakota aircraft crash memorial. The memorial honours the crew and passengers who lost their lives in 1943. Among the gum trees and birds, it added a layer of quiet history to the start of our visit, reminding us that even in remote places like this, there are stories worth remembering.
We pulled into Sandstone Park a little earlier than expected, set up camp quickly, and realised there was no way we were waiting until tomorrow to start exploring. With the afternoon light softening and our legs restless, we headed out to find the Rock Pool.
It didn’t take long before things got interesting. Rounding a bend in the track on the short walk to the pool, we spotted a cluster of large, dark shapes ahead. “Bears!” we blurted out, not thinking, oops! We sent the Canadian tourist in front of us into a panic. Turns out, they were just a mob of very relaxed black bulls enjoying the shade. The bulls didn’t flinch, but our poor walking companion might need a while to recover.
With the “bears” behind us and the Rock Pool found, we decided to stretch our legs properly with a quick 5km round-trip into Mickey Creek Gorge. It turned out to be one of those short walks that really surprises you. The further in we went, the narrower the walls became, wrapping around us in towering curves of sandstone. Light filtered down in stripes, birds called from unseen ledges, and it was suddenly very quiet. It felt like the gorge was swallowing the noise.
Mickey Creek might be a short hike, but it left us speechless, a stunning entrée to the feast that is Carnarvon Gorge.
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Carnarvon Gorge
Carnarvon Gorge is a spectacular national park in Central Queensland, defined by its towering sandstone walls, shaded creeks, lush vegetation, and deep rock shelters. It’s a place where geology, ecology, and Indigenous heritage overlap, with art sites, waterfalls, and trails weaving through a dramatic canyon system that feels timeless.
How to Get There
The Gorge is accessed via unsealed roadways from Injune or Rolleston, off the Carnarvon Highway. The last stretch into the park is a gravel track, so high-clearance vehicles are strongly recommended. From major towns: Injune is about 187 km north, Rolleston about 130 km south, and Roma is ~170 km away.
What to See
Moss Garden – A shaded oasis where ferns, moss, and cool water made it one of the most magical stops.
Amphitheatre – Walking into this towering sandstone chamber was unforgettable, with its soaring cliffs and hushed acoustics.
Indigenous Rock Art Sites – Wandering past ancient art etched into the stone gave us a deep sense of connection to the landscape.
Other highlights you might like to explore:
Wards Canyon – A lush hidden pocket with king ferns and flowing water.
Boolimba Bluff – A lookout reached via steep steps, offering sweeping views over the gorge.
Moolayember Falls – A longer hike to a remote waterfall, rewarding for those with time.
Junction Creek Walks – Easy creekside paths framed by sandstone cliffs and shady gums.
When to Visit
The best time to visit Carnarvon Gorge is during the dry season (April to October), with cooler days, stable walking conditions, and reduced risk of floods. Wet season can bring heavy rain, slippery tracks, and limited access to some trails and creeks. Early morning or late afternoon walks are ideal for avoiding heat and catching soft light.
Final Thoughts
Carnarvon Gorge left us some great memories. Its towering cliffs, quiet creeks, and ancient art sites made every walk feel special. We found it both fascinating and beautiful, a place we’ll always remember fondly.
What’s Nearby
This post is the first part of our Carnarvon Gorge experience—see the first part here for more of our gorge journey. Before arriving, we passed through Bogantungan, a small Queensland outback stop, and after leaving the gorge we headed toward Rockhampton, where heritage, art, and city escapes awaited.
Fast Facts
Location: Carnarvon Gorge, Carnarvon National Park, Queensland
Distance from Emerald: 250 km south via Carnarvon Highway and Wyseby Road
Traditional Owners: Bidjara and Karingbal peoples
Access: Sealed highway with final section of gravel; suitable for most vehicles in dry conditions
Facilities: Visitor centre, campground, picnic areas, toilets, limited mobile reception
Walking Track: Multiple trails from short walks to full-day hikes through the gorge system
Dog Friendly: Not permitted within Carnarvon National Park
Best Time to Visit: April to September for mild weather and cooler walking conditions
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You can find more details about walking tracks and park access on the official Carnarvon Gorge National Park page.
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