Conquer these epic north Queensland adventures

Out and About

Experiencing the natural beauty of north Queensland worth the effort.

The morning view from Mt Bartle Frere in north Queensland.

North Queensland is filled with natural attractions waiting to be explored.

Here are three physically challenging adventures to consider tackling that deliver experiences that are well and truly worth the extra effort.

Participants on Packers Ghost Trek in north Queensland.

Follow historic tracks

Follow in the footsteps of Queensland pioneers on Getaway Trekking & Adventures’ Packers’ Ghost Trek multi-day hike.

Departing Kalunga, 100km south-west of Cairns, this seven-day group walk pairs determined hikers with a team of skilled donkeys and follows tracks used by packers and drovers in the late 1800s.

Trekkers must work together with their four-legged companions to traverse rough terrain in a test of stamina and teamwork.

Along the way, visit historical mining sites like Silver Valley, where silver was first discovered in Australia, follow remote mountain ranges, cool off in clear rivers and camp out under the stars.

Climb Queensland’s highest peak

Standing at an imposing elevation of over 1,600m, Mt Bartle Frere (pictured top) is Queensland’s highest peak.

Drive an hour south of Cairns to Wooroonooran National Park and choose between two trails to ascend into the clouds.

The steep 15km climb can take up to 12 hours to complete so plan to camp overnight and descend during daylight hours.

The reward? Catch sunset and sunrise from the summit with panoramic views across the Atherton Tablelands to the west and coastline to the east.

Tackle this epic climb during the cooler months between May and October and only if you are a very experienced hiker with a high fitness level.

Click here for more information.

The Whitsundays' Ngaro Sea Trail.

Paddle the Whitsundays

Uncover Indigenous culture and history when you explore the Ngaro Sea Trail connecting multiple islands in the Whitsundays.

Hike, kayak and camp along the trail leaving nothing behind but your footprints.

Transfer to, from and in between the islands with Scamper or hire kayak gear through Salty Dog Sea Kayaking.

Contact RACQ Travel for more north Queensland holiday ideas

Photos: Tourism and Events Queensland

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Things to note

The information in this article has been prepared for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal advice or specific advice to any particular person. Any advice contained in the document is general advice, not intended as legal advice or professional advice and does not take into account any person’s particular circumstances. Before acting on anything based on this advice you should consider its appropriateness to you, having regard to your objectives and needs.