Olkola National Park (CYPAL) Tropical North Queensland

Creek line in Olkola National Park (CYPAL) Photo credit: © Francis Malcolm

Nukakurra Lagoon walking track

This track weaves through a significant cultural area for the Olkola People.

Journey type
Walk
Distance
1.4km circuit The same start and finish point, but the traveller doesn’t return along the same path
Time suggested
45min (circuit)
Grade
Grade 3 walking track

Accessible by

  • 4WD

Journey facilities

  • Walking

This track weaves through a significant cultural area for the Olkola People. The track passes through open woodland and alongside Eight Mile Creek and Nukakurra Lagoon. Follow the track in a clockwise direction and learn about the Indigenous plant uses from the interpretive signs along the way. This walking track is accessed via Dixie Road, off the Peninsula Developmental Road.

Bench seat on the Nukakurra Lagoon walking track.

Sit down and take a break along the Nukakurra Lagoon walking track.

Photo credit: © Queensland Government

Getting there

Currently access is only possible to the Nukakurra Lagoon walking track, which is located adjacent to Dixie Road, off the Peninsula Developmental Road.

Drive

  • From Cairns: The Nukakurra Lagoon section of the park can be accessed from Cairns via the Peninsula Developmental Road (PDR) through Laura, continue along the PDR until the park turn off at Dixie Road. The average travelling time from Cairns to Laura is 5–6hr and Laura to Olkola National Park (CYPAL) is approximately 4–5hr.
  • From Coen: The Nukakurra Lagoon section of the park can also be reached from Coen travelling south via the PDR, turning right at Dixie Road to reach the park.

Roads in national parks are the same as any other public road in Queensland. All vehicles, except those exempted by law, must be registered. Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service does not give permission for conditionally registered vehicles (e.g. quad bikes) to be used recreationally by individuals. In many places it is not legally possible to issue a permit.

Surveillance cameras may be used to monitor visitor behaviour and movements throughout the park. On-the-spot fines may also apply.

Water monitor.

Water monitor.

Photo credit: © Beth McGrath

Before you visit

Opening hours

Nukakurra Lagoon walking track is currently the only visitor access point in the park. The park is closed during the wet season, typically from 1 November to 30 June (dates inclusive) as the road into the park becomes impassable.

Visiting safely

For more safety information see Visiting Olkola National Park (CYPAL) safely and Walk with care.

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