Townsville Bushwalking Club Walk
Diorite Falls - Paluma Range National Park
Sunday 22 February
Walk leader: Cherry
Grade: 4
Distance: 15-22 km depending on route
Duration: 6-8 hours
Terrain: Forest trails, creek crossings, rock hopping, moderate undulations
To RSVP, please email
[email protected]Cherry will be leading us to Diorite Falls, a beautiful 10 m slab waterfall on Waterfall Creek in Paluma Range National Park. Named after the igneous rock "diorite" found in the area, this is one of those classic Paluma destinations - granite slabs, clear pools and lush creek lines tucked into the forest.
This will be a solid day walk. Depending on the route taken and group pace, expect between 15 and 22 km and around 6 to 8 hours on foot. Difficulty is Grade 4 - moderate to difficult - with a mix of trail walking, off-track sections and creek navigation.
There are a couple of possible approaches. We may cross the Paluma Dam wall and head north-east through the forest, or enter Waterfall Creek from the northern track and rock hop upstream to the falls. Final route choice will depend on conditions and group ability on the day.
The reward is well worth it. Diorite Falls spills smoothly over a broad slab into a large inviting pool - ideal for a lunch stop and, for those keen, a refreshing swim. Just be mindful that wet season creek edges can harbour leeches, and slippery rock demands careful foot placement.
Cherry will organise any required permissions for the day.
Bring:
At least 2-3 L of water
Lunch and snacks
Swimmers and small towel
Sturdy footwear suitable for wet rock
Long sleeves and pants
Gaiters optional but useful in creek sections
This is a longer day in Paluma’s cool upland forest, with a proper waterfall payoff at the end. Expect a steady pace, good company and the kind of granite-and-water scenery that makes North Queensland special.
Clicking "Going" on Facebook does not register you for the event. To confirm your place, please complete the RSVP form linked in the event description. Attendance can only be confirmed once the form has been submitted.
Townsville Bushwalking Club members: Free
Visitors: $5 per walk. After completing three club walks, you are welcome to join as a member.
Please read the Townsville Bushwalking Club's ‘Walker Guidelines’ and ‘What to Bring’ at these links:
Walker Guidelines -
https://www.townsvillebushwalkingclub.com/about/walker-guidelinesWalk Together -
https://www.townsvillebushwalkingclub.com/about/walk-togetherWhat to Bring? -
https://www.townsvillebushwalkingclub.com/equipment/what-to-bring