Wallaman Falls
Hinchinbrook Way
If you’re into chasing waterfalls then Wallaman Falls should be at the top of your list! All you need to know about Australia’s highest single drop waterfall. Picture yourself at the base of Australia’s highest single drop waterfall, where all you can see are rainbows reflected off the crashing falls and all you can hear is its roar!!!
Take a short scenic drive 52 km West of Ingham, travelling through sugar-cane fields and farmland, you will no doubt encounter some of the locals along the way… including cattle that will attempt to show you just who owns the road, or maybe a friendly cassowary will wander on by on the side of the road.
When you arrive at the Falls you will be in the midst of Girringun National Park and World Heritage rainforest where you can take a moment to appreciate that there’s 150 million years of history surrounding you.
The main lookout is a very short walk from the car park and from here you can witness the sheer size and majesty of the falls as Stony Creek plunges 268 metres into the 20 metre deep pool below.
Offering the perfect photo opportunities, you might be lucky enough to catch a rainbow as the light hits the falls in just the right way.
To fully appreciate the magnitude of the falls, trekking to the bottom on the Djyinda Walk is a must! Meander through the tranquil rainforest down the steep trek and the views will leave you breathless.
Reaching the base, the enormity of the falls can truly be appreciated as you witness them crashing onto the rocks and hear the mighty roar!
History of Wallaman Falls
The Warrgamaygan Aboriginal people claim Wallaman Falls as one of their traditional territories. The local aboriginal name, Wallaman, means ‘That Water’.
‘Nginba Warrgamaygan Ngarji’. They hope you will enjoy your visit and respect this sacred place.
The falls geological history may be traced back approximately 50 million years, when the uplift of the continental margin in the region was responsible for the current landforms.
Henry Stone is credited as being the first European to settle in the Herbert River Valley and the first to see the Falls. Together with George Elphinstone Dalrymple and Mr Farquahar, they were credited as discovering the falls in 1864.
G.E. Dalrymple named the Seaview Range in 1863 because he spotted the Pacific Ocean from its summit.
How do I get to Wallaman Falls?
Ingham is about 110 kms north of Townsville and 235 kms south of Cairns and, as the central town of the Hinchinbrook Region, is the gateway to Wallaman Falls and many more local attractions.
Once you have reached Ingham, the road to Wallaman Falls is well signed and is a fully sealed bitumen road all the way.
The road is suitable for conventional vehicles, but as the road is quite winding, the towing of caravans is not recommended. The Falls are reached by travelling over the Seaview Range, mountainous country rising 792 metres. Head west along Ingham’s main street, Lannercost Street, and continue on to Abergowrie Road for approximately 10 kms to the small township of Trebonne.
From here you will turn left onto Stone River Road and follow the sign posts. Once you reach the top of the range you will find a large car park with lots of free parking. The car park is a short 30 metre walk from the lookout area.
The Wallaman Falls Lookout
The main lookout provides stunning views of the falls and from there you can take a short walk to the second lookout which offers breathtaking views of the Herbert River Gorge and Valley.
The lookout area has a large day use area with toilet facilities, picnic spots, and barbecues. A short drive around to the camping grounds and you will find a family friendly area with many opportunities for bird watching, camping, hiking, and swimming.
When should you visit Wallaman Falls?
The waterfall flows all year round; however, it is at its peak in the wet season (November to April).
The best time to visit the falls is in the morning; you can often be treated to a rainbow or two if the sun hits the falls in just the right way. Even if you are not a morning person you can still visit any time of the day. However, if you’re wanting to experience the true majesty of the falls, make sure you allow enough time to complete the walk to the base, which can take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours return.
The sun disappears behind the canyon quite early in the afternoon, offering great sunsets for campers. The falls can be quite a popular tourist destination in peak times, so if you can avoid weekend travel, you will enjoy the views with less people around.
Walks and Hikes
Wallaman Falls
Bangurru Walk – 800 m return
Grade: Easy
Approximately 45 mins
The Banggurru (pronounced ‘Bun-gu-roo’ and meaning turtle) walk provides an opportunity for the whole family to experience some of the beauty of the Wet Tropics World Heritage rainforest along the banks of Stony Creek. The walk starts at the Wallaman Falls campgrounds and follows Stony Creek upstream for about 400 metres to a swimming area amongst the rocks. It’s advised that you don’t swim if the water is high over the rocks and fast flowing. Be sure to spend a moment peering into the rock pools – you could be rewarded with a glimpse of a platypus, or hear the plop of a water dragon seeking refuge in the creek. Saw-shelled turtles can also be seen basking on logs or peeking through the surface of the water.
This is an easy grade walk and one that people of all ages and fitness levels can enjoy.
Djyinda Walk – 3.2 kms return
Grade: Moderate
Approximately 2 hours
Did you know Djyinda, the name of the walk to the base of Wallaman Falls, is pronounced ‘Yin-da’ and means ‘falls’?
If you love chasing waterfalls then this walk is for you! The walk begins 300 meters from Wallaman Falls’ main lookout and ends at the base of the falls. The track weaves through open forest along the escarpment and provides breathtaking views of the Herbert Valley. As the track goes deeper into the gorge, open forest gives way to vine-thicket rainforest.
You will hear the falls long before you can see them – the roar of 268 metres of sheer force as Australia’s highest single drop waterfall plunges to the 20-metre-deep pool below.
It is truly impossible to appreciate the majesty of the falls until you have experienced the Djyinda walk.
Wet Tropics Great Walks
For the more adventurous, Wallaman Falls is the gateway to the Wet Tropics Great Walk where you have the choice of three walking tracks.
The Wallaman Falls Section of Girringun National Park forms part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. It boasts spectacular scenery and an array of plant and animal life. The Wet Tropics Great Walk enables you to discover some of the region’s diverse landscapes. The creeks and rivers are home to platypus, eastern water dragons, and saw-shelled turtles. If you are lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the unique musky rat-kangaroo or the endangered southern cassowary. The Wet Tropics Great Walk passes through the traditional lands of the Warrgamaygan Aboriginal people. The land holds great cultural significance to them.
Part of the walking track also follows a section of the Dalrymple Track. This historic route from the coast to inland enabled essential supplies to be hauled to the frontier homesteads. There are three walking tracks in the Wallaman Falls Section of the Wet Tropics Great Walk. Each track has been given a language name by the Traditional Owners, the Warrgamaygan Aboriginal people.
Buujan Quiinbiira Walk
Grade: Difficult
Track Class: Marked Route
37.5 kms one way (allow 2 days)
The Buujan Quiinbiira (Boo-jun quin bee-rr-ar) Walk is part of the Wet Tropics Great Walk. The hike begins at Wallaman Falls and continues through open forests and along palm-filled valleys, before crossing the Herbert River and arriving at the Yamanie pick-up location.
Day 1: Wallaman Falls to Pack Trail Campsite (23.3 km)
The first day’s walk is 23.3 kilometres long and follows an old forestry route through a variety of habitats, including a she-oak dominated region, open woodland, and rainforest. The land is rich in wildlife and throughout the forest, little gullies brimming with ferns and palms can be seen.
Approximately 12 kms down the track you will come across an old disused forestry camp. This camp was home to the road gangs, timber cutters, and forestry workers who laboured here for roughly ten years.
Not far from the camp is Garrawalt Creek, the perfect place to stop for lunch. Many hikers have been lucky enough to spot an elusive platypus or water dragon as they stop for a bite to eat and unwind.
You will cross three more creeks before arriving at the Pack Trail Campsite. Be sure to fill up your water containers at Flagstone Creek, as it’s the last creek crossing for 14 km!
Pack Trail Campsite will be your home for the night, as you set up camp for a well-deserved rest!
Day 2: Pack Trail campsite to Yamanie (14.2 kms)
Pack Trail campsite to Yamanie turn-off (4.7 km)
Well rested after a night under the stars, this morning you will relive history as you hike part of the Dalrymple Track which was forged by George Dalrymple and his team in the 1860s. Bullock teams bringing basic supplies from the Port of Cardwell to the frontier homesteads relied heavily on this route.
Take in the breathtaking vistas of the Herbert River Valley as you make your way down the steep descent on unsteady ground. Before reaching the turn off to Yamanie, you’ll pass through a large scrubby gully at the bottom of the hill.
At the signpost, which is not far from this point, you will need to take the turn off for the Yamanie pick up point.
Yamanie turn-off to Yamanie pick-up point. (9.5 km)
As you stroll through open forest on your journey to the Yamanie pick up point, keep your eyes and ears open for the abundance of wildlife that call the banks of the Herbert River home. It is quite a pleasant walk, as you listen out for the raucous chatter of Scaly-breasted lorikeets or the gruff call of a Wompoo. Definitely keep an eye out for one of the local residents that you might not want to encounter, large estuarine crocodiles make a home in the deep-water holes of the Herbert River.
The Herbert is also home to a variety of fish including barramundi and mangrove jack, if you’d like to try your luck at fishing.
Yamanie pick up point and campsite can only be reached by foot or 4wd, it is not accessible for caravans, campervans, or motor homes.
Getting There
Buujan Quiibiira Walk goes from Wallaman Falls to Yamanie. Wallaman Falls is 51.5 kilometres drive from Ingham. Normal travel time is approximately an hour each way. Travel 8 kilometres west of Ingham to Trebonne and turn left. Follow the signs to Wallaman Falls, over the Stone River and up the coastal range. The road climbs steeply up the range and is slippery when wet.
Caravans and trailers are not recommended. Cassowaries are sometimes seen in the rainforest sections, so please drive carefully. The lookout and the campground are about 2 kilometres apart on different forks of the road near the falls.
The Yamanie Pick up point of Girringun National Park is 60 km from Ingham, about a 45 min drive. Travel west from Ingham along Abergowrie Road for approximately 24 kms and take the second left, past the Ashton hotel and onto Sheahan’s road. At the end of the road, you will find a gate at the entrance to the park. Please ensure you close the gate behind you. Beyond the gate, 4WD vehicles are recommended.
Camping Permits: Visit Queensland National Parks Booking Services: https://qpws.usedirect.com/qpws/
Djagany (goanna) Walk
Grade: Difficult
56.8 kms one way (allow 3 days)
The Djagany (Jar-gar-nee) walk begins at Wallaman Falls and follows an old forestry track through open forest and rainforest.
On the hike to the Henrietta gate pick-up point, cool, peaceful creek crossings provide a pleasant break from the heat.
Day 1: Wallaman Falls to Pack Trail campsite — 23.3 km (allow 1 day)
The first day’s walk is 23.3 kilometres long and follows an old forestry route through a variety of habitats, including a she-oak dominated region, open woodland, and rainforest.
The land is rich in wildlife and, throughout the forest, little gullies brimming with ferns and palms can be seen.
Approximately 12 kms down the track you will come across an old disused forestry camp. This camp was home to the road gangs, timber cutters, and forestry workers who laboured here for roughly ten years.
Not far from the camp is Garrawalt Creek, the perfect place to stop for lunch. Many hikers have been lucky enough to spot an elusive platypus or water dragon as they stop for a bite to eat and unwind.
You will cross three more creeks before arriving at the Pack Trail Campsite. Be sure to fill up your water containers at Flagstone Creek, as it’s the last creek crossing for 14 km!
Pack Trail Campsite will be your home for the night, as you set up camp for a well-deserved rest!
Day 2: Pack Trail campsite to Yamanie turn-off — 4.7km (allow 3–4hrs)
Pack Trail campsite to Yamanie turn-off (4.7 km)
Well rested after a night under the stars, this morning you will relive history as you hike part of the Dalrymple Track which was forged by George Dalrymple and his team in the 1860s.
Bullock teams bringing basic supplies from the Port of Cardwell to the frontier homesteads relied heavily on this route.
Take in the breathtaking vistas of the Herbert River Valley as you make your way down the steep descent on unsteady ground. Before reaching the turn off to Yamanie, you’ll pass through a large scrubby gully at the bottom of the hill.
Yamanie turn-off to Stony Creek campsite — 9.2 km (allow 2.5–3.5hrs)
Keep an eye out for a grove of cycads approximately 1.8 kilometres along the trail. About 136 million years ago, when dinosaurs roamed the earth, these prehistoric plants were commonplace and they have changed very little since then.
Another short walk, about 3 km, is Garrawalt Creek, the perfect place to stop for lunch and a bit of a rest under a shady tree. Keep an eye out, you’ve arrived in croc territory! Along this part of the trail the creeks run into the Herbert River, home to estuarine and saltwater crocodiles. As one of the largest predators in these areas, they play a major role in contributing to the ecosystem’s general health and balance. They are found primarily in river tidal areas, as well as freshwater canals, swamps and lagoons, sometimes hundreds of kilometres from the ocean. Be croc aware and remember that they are most active at night.
Only another 4.4 km till you reach the Stony Creek campsite, where you can sit back, relax, and enjoy a well-earned rest for the night.
Day 3: Stony Creek campsite to Henrietta gate pick-up point — 19.6 km (allow 1 day)
As there will be no fresh water available for the first 13 km, please fill your water bottles before you leave camp!
Most of the area was originally used for grazing, however since it was purchased by the Queensland Government in 1994, it now forms part of Girringun National Park. The region is designated as a protected habitat for the endangered mahogany glider. Efforts are underway to restrict nuisance plant spread and remove pest animals. Before tackling the last portion of the route, Henrietta Creek is a great place to stop for lunch and refill your water bottles. Lemon Tree Gully is 6 kms down the trail, it is aptly named as the lemon tree that grows there still bears fruit. Henrietta Gate and your pick up point are only 5.2 kms away.
Gugigugi (butterfly) Walk
Grade: Difficult
37.5 kms one way (allow 2 days)
The Gugigugi (Goo-ji-goo-ji) trek begins at the Henrietta gate and continues through open forest and flourishing creek crossings. Before reaching the Yamanie pick-up point you will cross the Herbert River.
Day 1: Henrietta gate pick-up point to Stony Creek campsite (reverse track notes above)
Day 2: Stony Creek campsite to Yamanie turn-off (reverse track notes above)
Yamanie turn-off to Yamanie pick-up point.
Know before hiking
Wallaman Falls
- The Wet Tropics Great Walk has several remote stretches. Hikers must be fully self-sufficient and pack the necessary equipment, food, and bushwalking gear.
- Be ready for all types of weather including rain, and pack suitable clothing.
- Make sure you have enough water-carrying containers to carry water for a full day’s hike. Bring a water treatment device to ensure all your drinking water is safe to drink.
- Food and high energy snacks should be nutritional, lightweight, and compact. Allow additional meals for 1-2 days.
- Ensure your footwear is sturdy and comfortable and has been worn in before you start your walk.
- Pack a torch or headlamp and pocket knife.
- Include a space blanket in your basic first aid kit and know how to use it.
- Bring a compass and a map or track guide.
- Your journey will be far more enjoyable if you pack a quality, waterproof, lightweight tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping mat. Ensure you have a hat and sunscreen, as the North Queensland sun can be punishing and insect repellent is also a necessity.
- Pack some biodegradable toilet paper and a small hand trowel.
- Bring a gas or liquid fuel stove with you, as well as some extra fuel. Don’t forget to bring a lighter or waterproof matches. Open fires are not permitted.
- To ensure meal times are as easy as possible, bring some lightweight cooking and eating utensils and a container for washing dishes.
- It’s a good idea to bring some waterproof bags for keeping things dry, and also for storing rubbish.
- There is little to no mobile phone coverage, so it is essential that you bring at least one form of communication device with you.
Fishing at Wallaman Falls
Fishing is permitted in Girringun National Park. There may be size, catch, and possession limits. Contact Agriculture and Fisheries for further information. Always remember to be croc-wise in croc country.
Can I swim at Wallaman Falls?
A short walk along the short 800 metre Bangguru Track and you will reach a cool, deep refreshing waterhole, perfect for the whole family.
Large rock pools that flow all year round are found at the waterhole and there are sandbars, perfect for sun tanning. Relax and enjoy the sounds of nature in the lush rainforest.
However, it is advised that you don’t swim if the creek is flowing too fast over the rocks. Swimming is not permitted at the base of Wallaman Falls.
Camping at Wallaman Falls
Wallaman Falls Camping area is conveniently located a stone’s throw away from Stony Creek and a short drive or leisurely stroll from the Wallaman Falls lookout.
Campers can take their pick on the perfect spot to pitch their tent or park up their campervan… But be sure to book your camping permit with Queensland Parks prior to your arrival as phone reception is scant!
The camping area facilities include cold water showers, hybrid composting toilets, picnic tables, wood fire barbeques, and fire pits for those chilly evenings.
Don’t forget to bring marshmallows! Please remember to pack yourself some rubbish bags as you will need to take all rubbish with you.
Fires are permitted unless fire bans apply (in existing fire rings only).
You will need a permit to camp at Wallaman Falls and these are available from the friendly team at the Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre or Queensland National Parks Bookings.