Mount Fox

Hinchinbrook Way

Standing tall above the surrounding eucalypt woodlands, the secluded Mount Fox crater is formed from an ancient volcano. Take the time to trek up rugged walking tracks to reveal spectacular views of the surrounding Kangaroo Hills and countryside.

Mount Fox is a place of incredible contrasts, from the tropical rainforests and open woodlands to the edge of the desert where the flat plain continues almost unabated until the coast, roughly 6000 km west. The diversity of landscapes provides habitats for an incredible range of flora and fauna, and combined with the elevation, brings cooler temperatures; Mount Fox is Hinchinbrook’s hidden gem.

Getting to Mount Fox

Mount Fox is 63.6 kilometres south-west of Ingham via the Herbert River Valley and the Seaview Range.

Travel west from Ingham along Abergowrie Road to Trebonne. From here the route is well signposted. About 20 kilometres from the park in the Mount Fox Forest Reserve, a lookout provides views across the valley.

While most of the route is unsealed and the road up the range is narrow and winding, it can still be accessed using a conventional vehicle. In summer, storms may restrict access to four-wheel-drive vehicles only. Contact the Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre for up-to-date information on road conditions. Please note the Mount Fox Range Road is unsuitable for caravans.

Is Mount Fox dormant?

Mount Fox is an isolated, well-preserved, and truly dormant volcano within Girringun National Park. Research reveals a story of a violent, volcanic explosion that created the now standing Mount Fox roughly 100,000 years ago.

Evidence can be seen where lava once spewed from the crater and flowed 10 metres thick down the volcanic mountain slope.

You can still see remnants of large chunks of molten rock that were thrown out of Mount Fox’s vent and sprawled in various placements; moulding the land we see today.

Camping at Mount Fox

There is a great camping area nestled at the Mount Fox Cricket Grounds, situated a small distance away from the Mount Fox National Park area.

The grounds offer facilities such as toilets, hot showers, an undercover area with seating, children’s playground, rubbish bins, and bore water. Fire pits are permitted. The camping area is dog friendly.

Although the camping area is free, a $10 per night donation is much appreciated.

All donations go towards the Mount Fox Rural Fire Brigade, who volunteer their time to maintain the camping area.

Walking at Mount Fox

Mount Fox has a difficult-graded 2 kilometre return walking track up to the crater rim. The walk is hard but well worth the view once you reach the crater rim. Allow yourself roughly 1.5 hours to conquer the Mount Fox Crater challenge.

This steep climb takes visitors up the side of Mount Fox, offering views of the crater and the surrounding Kangaroo Hills countryside. There is no marked or maintained track. This walk is for experienced walkers with a high level of fitness.

Be prepared for a steep climb on unstable, slippery surfaces. The Mount Fox walking track may be closed during the wet season (between December and May). Additional closures may occur for management purposes.

Raspberry Falls, Mount Fox

Also known as Raspberry Creek Falls, Raspberry Falls is a hidden gem in Hinchinbrook and the perfect off the beaten track experience for nature seekers.

The majestically terraced waterfall system flows eastward off the Seaview Range, creating a remarkable view of the gorgeous waterfall rolling through the Girringun National Park below. The walk itself has been graded as difficult in nature due to the unformed track where at times you are trekking up creeks… so be prepared to get wet shoes! Allow yourself a good 3 hours for the return trip.

Things to know before you visit to Mount Fox

Mount Fox, Girringun National Park is remote and help can be hours away. Remember to tell a responsible person where you are going and when you expect to return. Let them know your route and contact them on your safe return. Have a contingency plan in place if you fail to contact them by the agreed time. If you change your plans, inform them. Be aware that mobile phone coverage is limited.

Essentials to bring to Mount Fox

No facilities are provided at Mount Fox, Girringun National Park. Visitors must be completely self-sufficient. For a safe and enjoyable visit is it advisable to bring:

  • A basic first-aid kit including a space blanket—and know how to use it.
  • Adequate clothing. Be prepared for all weather conditions including rain.
  • Sturdy, reliable footwear. Make sure your footwear has been worn in before you start your walk.
  • A hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and insect repellent.
  • Enough water for a day’s walk.
  • At least one form of communication equipment. Be aware that mobile phone coverage is limited.

Climate and weather at Mount Fox

The cooler months, from April to September, are the best times to visit Mount Fox. During this time, temperatures range from a minimum overnight temperature of five degrees Celsius to a daytime maximum temperature of 30 degrees Celsius.

Rainfall is sparse at Mount Fox, although storms occur in summer. Contact the Bureau of Meteorology for the latest weather reports.

 

Fuel and supplies at Mount Fox

The closet fuel and supplies are available from local towns such as Ingham and Townsville.