Djyinda Track – Wallaman Falls
Details
Forever chasing waterfalls? Well this is one for you. Australia’s highest single drop waterfall is seriously impressive, and with the relatively easy hike down to the base through beautiful rainforest, there’s no excuse not to visit.
Wallaman Falls are located approximately two hours North of Townsville in Girringun National Park. It is part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, and once you visit, you’ll understand why. The scenery is unreal, and there ’s such a variety of plant and animal life. If you’re super lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the Southern Cassowary which roams this area.
The Djyinda Track (pronounced “Yin-da”) begins 300m from the lookout and ends at the base of the falls. It is 3.2km return but allow 2 hours to explore at the base and the relatively steep ascent on the way out. The track follows along the escarpment and winds through open forest before heading down into the gorge and the thick tropical rainforest. You'll hear the falls before you can see them – the unmistakable sound of 268m of sheer force as the water powers down from the top of the escarpment to the pool below. Looking up, the mist from the falls creates a rainbow of colour. The track isn’t difficult but it is short and sharp and the incline is definitely more noticeable on the way back up. Some of the surfaces are unstable and slippery.
It is possible to reach the pool and swim although it’s a reasonable rock scramble to get there and the fine mist from the waterfall drenches all the surrounding rocks making them unbelievably slippery, so proceed with caution.
Backpack Check:
The usual: food, water, sunscreen. Swimmers if you fancy a dip and waterproof jacket just in case the tropics live up to their name. Shoes with good grip are a must. And of course a GoPro or camera gear for all your amazing snaps.
