Juwun and Jambal walks, Wet Tropics Great Walk Townsville | Tropical North Queensland

Visiting Juwun and Jambal walks safely

    Getting there and getting around

    With the Kirrama Range Road closed, access to Blencoe Falls is via Mount Garnet. Access should only be attempted in dry conditions and 4WDs are recommended.

    The Yamanie pick-up point can be accessed via Ingham. Local flooding may restrict access. Contact the RACQ to enquire about local road conditions. There is no caravan access to Blencoe Falls or the Yamanie pick-up point.

    Blencoe Falls

    Blencoe Falls is 96km south-east of Mount Garnet. The 2hr drive passes through several cattle stations along the Kennedy Developmental Road, Kirrama–Mt Garnet Road and Kirrama–Cashmere Road.

    Yamanie pick-up point

    The Yamanie pick-up point is 60km from Ingham, about a 45min drive through rural properties. Travel west from Ingham along Abergowrie Road. At the end of the road you will find a gate — the entrance to Girringun National Park. Please close the gate behind you. Beyond the gate 4WDs are recommended.

    Wheelchair accessibility

    There are no wheelchair-accessible tracks or facilities included as part of the Wet Tropics Great Walk.

    Staying safe

    Be crocwise

    Be aware that estuarine crocodiles may be encountered in waterholes, creeks and rivers along the Great Walk. Crocodiles can be dangerous. Do not take unnecessary risks and remember to Be crocwise in croc country.

    Take the opportunity to observe crocodiles from a distance. Stay well back from crocodiles or croc-slide marks. If you are approached by a crocodile, move away from the animal.

    Ensure you read the walking safely information for this section of the walk and stay safe and visiting with care.

    Before you visit

    Remember to tell a responsible person where you are going and when you expect to return. Let them know your route and contact them on your return. Have a contingency plan in place if you fail to contact them by the agreed time. If you change your plans, inform them.

    Essentials to bring

    The Juwun and Jambal walks are remote and there are no facilities. Walkers must be fully self-sufficient and pack the right equipment and bushwalking gear.

    • Pack a basic first-aid kit including a space blanket. Know how to use it.
    • Take adequate clothing. Be prepared for all weather conditions including rain.
    • Wear sturdy, reliable footwear. Make sure your footwear has been worn in before you start your walk.
    • Bring a map or track guide, and a compass.
    • A quality lightweight, waterproof tent and a lightweight sleeping bag and sleeping mat will make your trip more enjoyable.
    • Pack a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses and insect repellent.
    • Bring a small hand trowel and biodegradable toilet paper.
    • Take a torch or headlamp.
    • Pack a pocket knife.
    • Take a gas or liquid fuel stove with spare fuel. Open fires are not permitted. Remember to include a lighter or waterproof matches.
    • Lightweight cooking and eating utensils and a container for washing dishes will make meal times easier.
    • Ensure you bring water-carrying containers big enough to carry a day’s water.
    • Bring a water treatment device for treating all drinking water.
    • Take waterproof bags for keeping clothing and bedding dry, and for storing rubbish.
    • Pack nourishing lightweight, compact food and high-energy snacks. Allow 1–2 days worth of extra food.
    • For your safety, always pack at least one form of communication equipment.

    Opening hours

    Girringun National Park is open 24 hours a day. The Juwun and Jambal walks are closed every year during the wet season from 1 December to 31 March. Flooding or high river levels make the walk unsafe during this time. This seasonal closure may be extended depending on weather conditions.

    Additional closures may occur for management purposes including pest plant and animal control.

    For your safety, walk in daylight hours only.

    Pets

    Please leave your pets at home; domestic animals are not permitted in Girringun National Park and along the Wet Tropics Great Walk.

    Climate and weather

    High rainfall summers and drier winters characterise the north-east Queensland tropics. To ensure your walk is fun and comfortable, try to visit between May and September when the weather and track conditions are at their best.

    Daytime temperatures and humidity can be high at any time of the year and nights can be very cool. In July, the overnight minimum temperatures are between 9°C and 18°C. Temperatures may reach as low as 0°C and frosts can occur in elevated areas. Please carry suitable clothing to accommodate all extremes. July to October are generally the driest months, but heavy rain can fall at anytime.

    Always be prepared for wet weather. After rain, creeks and rivers along the Great Walk may flood. Always check the weather forecast before you begin your walk. Contact the Bureau of Meteorology for the latest weather reports.

    Fuel and supplies

    Fuel and supplies are available from local towns such as Mount Garnet and Ravenshoe.