InTownsville and Magnetic Island Guide March - August 2020

PALUMA
©Roslyn Budd (Budd Photography)
Cloudy Creek
Crystal Creek Bridge
Paluma Range National Park is at the southern end
of the World Heritage Wet Tropics. Although this area
was settled approximately 120 years ago, its scenic
beauty ensured its national park status. Today, Paluma
Range National Park and the mountain settlements of
Paluma and Hidden Valley are popular retreats which
have never been exploited or overdeveloped.
About 60km north of Townsville, or 40km south of
Ingham, the Mt Spec Road leaves the Bruce Highway
and turns inland towards the beautiful mountains of
the Paluma Ranges. Separating the National Park
from the Mt Spec State Forest, this scenic road is a
monument to human effort as it was built mostly by
hand during the 1930’s Great Depression.
Along the winding mountain road can be found
examples of original stonework and ingenuity, the
most popular of which is the photogenic stone bridge
over Little Crystal Creek 7km from the bottom of the
range. This historical arch was the first of its kind in
Queensland and spans the icy cold crystal clear
water rushing down the gorge. The clear pools, huge
granite boulders and lush rainforest vegetation make
Little Crystal Creek a popular stopover on the way
up to the village of Paluma. Picnic, BBQ and toilet
facilities are available both at Little Crystal Creek and
at Paluma. Walking tracks, some of which provide
stunning views, wind through the National Park.
LAKE PALUMA
Crystal Creek
Lake Paluma is an attractive lake surrounded by
World Heritage Rainforest. It provides a water supply
for approximately one third of the year. Access is
via a 12 kilometre gravel road just past the Paluma
township. There are weather proof shelters for day use
with barbecues and camping sites for longer stays. All
rubbish taken in must be removed, and no domestic
animals are allowed.
Swimming and non-motorised vessels are allowed.
If you are lucky you may see a platypus, peregrine
falcon or eastern water dragon. Due to the popularity
of Lake Paluma as a camping destination, there are a
limited number of camp sites available and you must
pre-book a permit.
Photos Tourism and Events Queensland
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