Your guide to the best walks in Daintree National Park, in the heart of the ancient Daintree Rainforest of Queensland!
Welcome to the Daintree Rainforest. As the world’s oldest rainforest, this place is overflowing with ancient trees, thick forest canopies, crystal-clear creeks, and the sounds of wildlife.
After travelling here twice in recent years, we’ve completely fallen under its spell. It is such a stunning area.
From moss-covered boardwalks to rugged hikes with panoramic views, the Daintree Rainforest is a nature lover’s paradise.
In this guide, we will be diving into the very best walks in the Daintree National Park, helping you explore this lush corner of Far North Queensland at your own pace.
Read next: 16 Best Things To Do In The Daintree Rainforest, Queensland
An Overview of Daintree National Park
Stretching from the Daintree River to Cape Tribulation Beach and beyond, Daintree National Park is a part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area.
It’s a haven of biodiversity that is home to more plant and animal species than anywhere else in Australia.
And with the Great Barrier Reef just offshore, it’s one of the only places in the world where two World Heritage sites meet.
The Daintree Rainforest is split into two main sections: Mossman Gorge in the south, and the Cape Tribulation area in the north.
Both offer stunning rainforest walks, scenic viewpoints, and access to pristine beaches.
The Daintree has some amazing hikes to try.
A little history about the Daintree Rainforest
Long before roads carved their way through the trees and hikers traced paths along creeks and ridge lines, the Daintree Rainforest thrived as one of the most ancient ecosystems on earth.
Estimated to be over 180 million years old (tens of millions of years older than the Amazon), this region has survived the breakup of Gondwana, dramatic climate shifts, and the rise of human civilisation.
For tens of thousands of years, the Eastern Kuku Yalanji people have called the Daintree home.
Their deep spiritual and cultural connection to the land continues today, and their knowledge is woven into the stories, plants, and natural rhythms of the forest.
Many trails pass through areas rich in Aboriginal heritage, so take time to respect the land and its custodians.
Find more epic places to visit in Queensland, Australia!
Top Walks in Daintree National Park – Cape Tribulation Area
Cape Tribulation is where the rainforest meets the reef — literally. It’s also the best base for many of the top walks in the Daintree Rainforest.
1. Mount Sorrow Ridge Trail
Looking for a challenging rainforest hike with jaw-dropping views? The Mount Sorrow Ridge Trail delivers.
This is a steep and strenuous 6- to 7-hour round trip that climbs through thick jungle to a lookout over the Daintree coastline.
On a clear day, you can spot the shimmering line of the Great Barrier Reef offshore.
- Distance: 7km return
- Time: 6–7 hour round trip
- Start: Just north of the National Park sign past Cape Tribulation
- Tip: Not recommended in wet weather. Bring plenty of water and insect repellent.
2. Myall Beach to Cape Tribulation Beach Walk
If you want a leisurely coastal wander, this one’s a gem.
Start at the Dubuji car park, follow the rainforest circuit track through lush forest and mangroves, and emerge onto Myall Beach.
Myall Beach is a stunning strip of sand where it’s all too easy to escape the crowds.
At low tide, it’s possible to walk around the headland to Cape Tribulation Beach.
- Distance: 3.5km return
- Time: 1.5–2 hours round trip
- Highlights: Cape Tribulation Headland, mangroves, ocean views, soft sand underfoot
- Tip: Check tide times. Only attempt the beach section at low tide.
Myall Beach and Cape Tribulation Headland
3. Emmagen Creek Walk
A 5km return walk through lush rainforest leading to a secluded swimming hole, Emmagen Creek is a peaceful escape.
You can’t drive all the way to the creek, so leave your car just before the no-through road ends and walk in. The water is cool and clear — a refreshing reward after the hike.
- Distance: 5km return
- Time: 1.5–2 hour round trip
- Tip: Bring reef-safe insect repellent and swim gear. Watch for stinging trees along the trail.
4. Dubuji Boardwalk
One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the Daintree rainforest without breaking a sweat is to hit the boardwalks.
These short and wheelchair accessible paths meander through dense jungle, over creeks, and past giant strangler figs.
Located right near Cape Tribulation, the Dubuji Boardwalk is a 1.2km circuit track through lowland rainforest and mangrove forest.
It’s flat, shaded, and teeming with wildlife — look out for cassowaries!
- Start: Dubuji car park
- Distance: 1.2km circuit
- Features: Mangroves, swamp forest, access to Myall Beach
You can often spot cassowaries wandering through the Daintree!
5. Jindalba Boardwalk & Jindalba Circuit Track
Near the Discovery Centre, these tracks offer two ways to experience the jungle. The Jindalba Boardwalk is an easy, 700m walk perfect for families.
The Jindalba Circuit Track is a more rugged 3km loop that winds through the rainforest foothills of Mount Demi.
- Start: Jindalba picnic area, Cape Tribulation Road
- Tip: Keep an ear out for rustling leaves — tree-kangaroos and Boyd’s forest dragons live here. Watch out for cassowaries too. Last time we were here, we stopped one in the car park.
Top Walks in Daintree National Park – Mossman Gorge Area
Further south, Mossman Gorge offers a variety of well-maintained walking tracks and boardwalks that cater to all levels of ability.
The area is managed in partnership with the local Indigenous community, and you can learn more through Dreamtime Gorge Walks, which are guided by Kuku Yalanji people.
Read next: The Perfect 4 Days In Port Douglas Itinerary
Baral Marrjanga Track
This short 270m wheelchair accessible trail leads from the Mossman Gorge Centre through lush rainforest to a lookout over the Mossman River. It’s ideal for all ages and mobility levels.
Rainforest Circuit Track
This 2.4km loop begins after crossing the suspension bridge and dives deeper into the ancient forest. Expect large buttress roots, strangler figs, and birdsong from canopy dwellers above. It’s a great way to get off the boardwalk and into the heart of the rainforest.
Experience the serenity of Mossman Gorge.
Rex Creek Suspension Bridge
Part of the Rainforest Circuit, this swinging bridge offers a birds-eye view of the rocky river below and makes for great photos.
Swimming Hole Track
A short detour from the Baral Marrjanga Track takes you to a popular swimming hole with crystal-clear water. Be aware of water levels and currents before entering.
Tip: Start early in the day to beat the crowds and heat, and consider taking a guided walk to learn more about the area’s cultural and ecological importance.
Swimming Holes and Creeks in the Daintree Rainforest
You’re going to get sweaty in the Daintree. Luckily, there are some beautiful creeks to cool off in.
- Emmagen Creek: Shallow, sandy-bottomed, great for a swim.
- Mason Creek: Near Cape Tribulation, this creek runs past Mason’s Cafe and has a croc-free swimming hole open to customers.
- Mossman Gorge: Crystal-clear rock pools. Swimming is permitted but be cautious — conditions can change fast.
Avoid swimming in the ocean around Cape Tribulation. Stingers and crocodiles are a real danger. Stick to the freshwater creeks.
Find more amazing places to swim with these waterfalls near Cairns!
Planning Your Visit
It is good to have everything planned before arriving to the Daintree Rainforest. It’s a very remote area and phone signal isn’t always reliable!
Getting There
From Port Douglas, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive to Cape Tribulation, including the Daintree River ferry crossing. The road is sealed all the way to Cape Tribulation but be aware of cassowaries and tight bends.
The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars, which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.
Daintree Discovery Centre
A great first stop to get your bearings, the Daintree Discovery Centre near Cow Bay is filled with interpretive displays, elevated walkways, and guides to the region’s flora and fauna. It’s ideal before hitting the trails.
Where to Stay
The Daintree Rainforest has plenty of lodgings available despite how remote it is.
Check online before you arrive to ensure you can secure a place. You’ll want to have a booking as accommodations in the dense rainforest are limited.
But there are plenty of lodges, hotels, resorts, and campgrounds to choose from.
When to Go
The dry season (May to October) is best for hiking, with lower humidity and clearer paths. Trails like the Sorrow Ridge Trail can be slippery and dangerous in the wet season.
If you’re planning to swim in creeks or enjoy the boardwalks without afternoon downpours, the dry season offers better weather and fewer insects.
That said, the wet season (November to April) brings its own charm — think lush greenery, roaring waterfalls, and fewer crowds. Just be mindful of potential flooding and leeches on the trails.
The lush forests of the Daintree
What to Bring
- Reef-safe insect repellent
- Reusable water bottle
- Hat and sun protection
- Sturdy walking shoes or hiking sandals
- Waterproof daypack
- Swimmers and towel
Facilities and Access
Many trails start from signed car parks along the main road, including the Dubuji car park, Jindalba, and Cape Tribulation Beach. Basic facilities like toilets and picnic areas are available at some locations.
Wrapping Up on Daintree National Park Walks
Daintree National Park is unlike anywhere else on earth.
With ancient landscapes, breathtaking walks, and the chance to swim in secluded creeks surrounded by nothing but nature, it’s no surprise we keep coming back.
From the easy boardwalks of Jindalba and Dubuji to the sweat-dripping climbs of the Mount Sorrow Ridge Trail, every walk gives you a new perspective of the Daintree.
Just remember to move slow, stay aware, and soak in the magic — the rainforest always rewards those who tread gently.
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