Best walks in Daintree National Park, Queensland (2025)

Your guide to the best walks in Daintree National Park, in the heart of Queensland’s ancient Daintree Rainforest!

Welcome to the Daintree Rainforest. As the world’s oldest rainforest, this place is brimming with ancient trees, dense forest canopies, clear streams, and the sounds of wildlife.

After traveling here twice in recent years, we fell completely under its spell. It’s an amazing area.

From moss-covered boardwalks to rugged hikes with panoramic views, the Daintree Rainforest is a nature lover’s paradise.

In this guide, we’ll dive into the best walks in 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 the shore of Cape Tribulation and beyond, Daintree National Park is part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area.

It is a biodiversity haven and home to more plant and animal species than anywhere else in Australia.

With the Great Barrier Reef just offshore, it is one of the only places in the world where two World Heritage Sites meet.

The Daintree Rainforest is divided into two main sections: the Mosman Valley in the south, and the Cape Tribulation Area in the north.

Both offer stunning rainforest walks, stunning views, and access to pristine beaches.

A little history about the Daintree Rainforest

Long before roads wound their way through trees and hikers followed paths along streams and ridgelines, the Daintree Rainforest flourished as one of the oldest ecosystems on Earth.

Estimated to be more than 180 million years old (tens of millions of years older than the Amazon), this region has survived the breakup of Gondwana, dramatic climate changes, and the rise of human civilization.

Tens of thousands of years ago in the East Kuku Yalanji people They called the Daintree home.

Their deep spiritual and cultural connection to the land continues to this day, 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!

The best walks in Daintree National Park – Cape Tribulation Area

Cape Tribulation is where rainforests meet coral reefs – literally. It’s also the best base for many of the best walks in the Daintree Rainforest.

1. Mountain Sorrow Ridge Road

Are you looking for a challenging trek in the rainforest with stunning views? The Mount Sorrow Ridge Trail delivers.

This is a steep and strenuous 6 to 7 hour round trip that climbs through dense forest to overlook the Daintree coast.

On a clear day, you can see the sparkling line of the Great Barrier Reef offshore.

• distance: 7 km return
• time: 6-7 hour round trip
• begins: Just north of the national park, point to the Cape Tribulation sign
• advice: Not recommended in wet weather. Bring plenty of water and insect repellent.

2. Myall Beach to Cape Tribulation Beach Promenade

If you want coastal wandering at your own pace, this is a gem.

Start from Dubuji car park, follow the Rainforest Circuit Trail through lush forests and mangroves, and emerge at Myall Beach.

Myall Beach is a stunning strip of sand where it’s easy to escape the crowds.

At low tide, it is possible to walk around the headland to Cape Tribulation Beach.

• distance: Return 3.5 km
• time: 1.5 – 2 hours one way
• Highlights: Cape Tribulation Headland, mangroves, ocean views and soft sand underfoot
• advice: Check tide times. Only try the beach section at low tide.

3. Imagine Creek Walk

Emmagen Creek is a peaceful retreat, a 5km walk through lush rainforest to a secluded swimming hole.

You can’t drive all the way to the creek, so leave your car just before the restricted road ends and get in. The water is cool and clear – a refreshing reward after a hike.

• distance: 5 km return
• time: 1.5 – 2 hours round trip
• advice: Bring reef-safe insect repellent and swimming gear. Watch out for stinging trees along the way.

4. Dobuji Walk

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the Daintree Rainforest without breaking a sweat is to hit the boardwalks.

These short, wheelchair-accessible trails meander through dense forest, over streams and past giant strangler fig trees.

Located just near Cape Tribulation, the Dubuji Boardwalk is a 1.2 km circular path through lowland rainforest and mangrove forests.

It’s flat, shady and teeming with wildlife – look out for cassowaries!

• begins: Dobuji car park
• distance: 1.2 km long circuit
• Features: Mangroves, swamp forests and access to Myale Beach

5. Jindalba Walk and Jindalba Circuit Track

Close to the Discovery Center, these trails offer two ways to experience the forest. The Jindalba Walk is an easy 700-meter trail, ideal for families.

The Jindalba Circuit Trail is a more rugged 3km loop that winds through the rainforest foothills of Mount Demi.

• begins: Jindalba Picnic Area, Cape Tribulation Trail
• advice: Pay attention to the rustle of the leaves – kangaroos and Boyd’s Forest dragons live here. Watch out for cassowaries, too. Last time we were here, we parked one in the parking lot.

Best walking trails in Daintree National Park – Mosman Gorge area

Further south, Mosman Gorge offers a variety of well-maintained walks and boardwalks that cater for all ability levels.

The area is managed in partnership with the local indigenous community, and you can learn more through the Dreamtime Gorge Walks, which are guided by the Kuku Yalanji people.

Read Next: The Perfect 4-Day Port Douglas Itinerary

Baral Marganga trail

This short, 270-metre, wheelchair-accessible trail leads from the Mosman Gorge Center through lush rainforest to a view of the Mosman River. It is perfect for all ages and mobility levels.

Rainforest Circuit Track

This 2.4 km loop begins after crossing the suspension bridge and delves deep into the ancient forest. Expect large supporting roots, strangler figs, and birdsong from the canopy denizens above. It’s a great way to get off the boardwalk and into the heart of the rainforest.

Rex Creek Suspension Bridge

Part of the Rainforest Circuit, this swing bridge offers a sweeping view of the rocky river below and makes for great photo ops.

Swimming hole path

Short turns of the Baral Marrjanga trail take you to a popular swimming area with crystal clear water. Be aware of water levels and currents before entering.

advice: Start early in the day to beat the crowds and heat, and consider taking a guided hike to learn more about the cultural and ecological importance of the area.

Swimming holes and creeks in the Daintree Rainforest

You’ll sweat it out on the Daintree. Fortunately, there are some beautiful tables where you can relax.

• Imagine Creek: Shallow, sandy bottom, great for swimming.
• Mason Creek: Near Cape Tribulation, this creek runs past Mason’s Café and has a crocodile-free swimming hole open to customers.
• Mosman Strait: Crystal clear rock pools. Swimming is permitted but be careful, conditions can change quickly.

Avoid swimming in the ocean around Cape Tribulation. Stingrays and crocodiles pose a real danger. Stick to freshwater streams.

Discover more great places to swim with these waterfalls near Cairns!

Planning your visit

It is a good idea to have everything planned before arriving at the Daintree Rainforest. It is a very remote area and the phone signal is not always reliable!

Getting there

From Port Douglas, it’s about an hour and a half drive to Cape Tribulation, including the ferry crossing on the Daintree River. The road is closed all the way to Cape Tribulation, but be careful of cassowaries and tight bends.

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rented carswhich has the largest collection of vehicles at the best value on the market.

Daintree Discovery Center

A great first stop to get your bearings, Daintree Discovery Center Nearby Cow Bay is filled with demonstrations, elevated walkways, and guides to the flora and fauna of the area. It’s perfect before you hit the trails.

Where do you live?

Daintree Rainforest has plenty of lodging available despite its remoteness.

Check online Before you arrive to make sure you can secure a place. You’ll need to book as accommodation in the dense rainforest is limited.

But there are plenty of hostels, hotels, resorts and camps to choose from.

When do you go?

The dry season (May to October) is best for hiking, with lower humidity and clearer trails. Trails like the Sorrow Ridge Trail can be slippery and dangerous in the rainy season.

If you plan to swim in the creeks or enjoy the trails without heavy afternoon rain, the dry season offers better weather and fewer insects.

However, the rainy season (November to April) brings its own charm – think lush greenery, roaring waterfalls, and fewer crowds. Just be aware of potential flooding and leeches on the walkways.

What to bring

• Reef safe insect repellent
• Reusable water bottle
• Hat and sun protection
• Sturdy walking shoes or sandals designed for hiking
• Waterproof daypack
• Swimmers and towel

Facilities and access

Several trails start from signed car parks along the main road, including Dobuji, Jindalba and Cape Tribulation Beach car parks. Basic amenities such as restrooms and picnic areas are available at some sites.

Conclusion of the walking tours in Daintree National Park

Daintree National Park is unlike any other place on Earth.

With ancient landscapes, breathtaking walks, and the chance to swim in secluded creeks surrounded by nature, it’s no surprise we would return again.

From the easy boardwalks of Jindalba and Dubuji to the sweaty climbs of the Mount Sorrow Ridge Trail, every hike gives you a new perspective on the Daintree.

Just remember to move slowly, stay aware, and enjoy the magic – the rainforest always rewards those who tread gently.

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book stays, tours, or purchase a product, we will earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. These commissions help us continue to create more free travel content to help people plan their vacations and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that we have personally tested or our amazing editorial team have tested, and review regularly. Thanks for your support, nice friend!