Page 101 - Port Douglas Magazine 37

Homerule Falls PHOTO CREDIT: Heightened Vision

Mt Sorrow away on a tranquil trail close to Emmagen Niau Falls and aka secret tip!
Creek is a small pathway that leads to complete
Experience Level - Medium Experience Level – Easy
utopia.
If you’re like me and love to hike, then a wander A short ten minutes’ drive north of Cape Niau Falls or Anniversary Falls, as they’re
up to the summit of Mt Sorrow is the perfect Tribulation, this easy walk is perfect for the termed, are on private property and situated
option for you. close to Daintree Village.
whole family. This short and flat 200m trail
On a clear sunny day, the view from Mt leads you gently under the rainforest canopy, But don’t despair – yes, you have permission
Sorrow’s summit is, without exaggeration, then suddenly opens up to a gigantic, people- to visit. Head into the Daintree general store,
spectacular. less beach – so freeing. and for a small fee get directions on your way
A return hike to the 760-metre summit Just before the big fig tree prior to Emmagen to these rarely visited falls. An easy walk to
generally takes people on average around five Creek, park your car on the left-hand side in the the falls, this trail is for everyone. Park at the
to seven hours, depending on fitness levels. makeshift parking bay. trailhead. It is close to the falls and only a short
15 to 20 minute drive from the village.
Mobile phone coverage is unreliable (and part Walk across the road to hit the short trail And back to the falls! These falls don’t get Water and snorkel delights
of the attraction), but the trail is well marked by to Emmagen Beach. It’s best enjoyed early Before you leave though, why not take a stroll A day on the reef along the waters of Cape
pink tape and winds its way through untouched morning to avoid the extreme heat of the around the Daintree Village or plan a lunch there spoken about often, but they are breathtaking Tribulation in the shadows of the Daintree
and exquisite rainforest. day. Take a breakfast picnic, enjoy the soft before you head to the falls for the afternoon – and in my opinion among the best in the Far David Attenborough talks about the reef that National Park is a memorable and complete
sands, coastal breeze and unspoilt coastline. the village is quirky, the locals friendly and the North Queensland. accompanies the Daintree. bucket list experience.
When you finally get to the top and you look Remember, this is crocodile and stinger pace is perfectly matched for holidays.
down towards the reef and surrounding territory, so do not enter the beach waters at From the lodge, “Walk along the eastern edge What better way to experience the wonderous Mason’s swimming hole
rainforest – it’s really something else and a very any point. Homerule Falls waters that overlook the Daintree then by An article about the marvels of the Daintree
special experience. of the dam, turn left and follow the dam wall to heading out to the beautiful Mackay Reef in wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the
Just save your swim for your return journey. Experience Level: Medium / Suitable for trail fit the hydro-electric generator shed, where a sign Cape Tribulation.
Keep in mind we are now in the wet season; Cross the road, pop your picnic in the car and families on the ground at the edge of the forest points most renowned family in the area and their
if you choose to hike this trail it’s going to be follow the trail in the opposite direction for Arriving in rapid time, Ocean Safari departs famous swimming hole.
humid, sticky and the trail will be slippery 10 minutes and you will discover a popular Still have waterfall fever? Then I’d definitely the way to the falls. Situated along the sole road to Cape Tribulation,
if it’s been raining so ensure you have the swimming spot with crystal clear waters recommend you take this perfect wet season The distinct track follows a water pipeline to from Cape Tribulation Beach and you’ll be able Mason’s Store is an iconic location to get a bite
necessary experience, ample water (four litres ensuring a safe and refreshing dip. Do not adventure with a day trip to the majestic the falls. It is a gradual climb to an impressive to spend quality snorkel time at both Mackay to eat and take in your rainforest surroundings
recommended) and proper hiking equipment to forget your camera. Homerule Falls. A three-hour drive from and Undine Reefs, where you’ll likely interact However, what you must do and what you can’t
deal with the conditions. Port Douglas, if you have the time make it three-tiered waterfall that plunges into a deep with turtles and other marine life. leave off your Daintree wish list is a swim in
pool between gorge walls of vertical slate.”
Emmagen Beach Waterfall Magic an overnight trip and stay over at Home Rule Staying in Port Douglas? No need to miss out the rainforest swimming hole behind their shop.
Rainforest Lodge, which offers accommodation
On that note, it wouldn’t be Far North and camping in shady parklands beside Wallaby A moderate 2.6 kilometre return walk will take as well-known eco-tourism operator, Sailaway Drop a donation into the tin and take the short
Experience Level – Easy about 40 minutes each way but do yourself a
Queensland and Douglas Shire living without Creek. Considered heading further north? Reef & Island Tours, offer daily trips out to the walk to the swimming hole. No, there are no
Emmagen Beach is one those picture postcard mentioning a few perfect local waterfalls to Cooktown is only 40 minutes up the road and favour and allow more time as you will want to spectacular Mackay Coral Cay aboard their crocs, so you can swim safely until your heart is
locations you can hardly believe exists. Tucked keep cool in this green season. well worth the visit too. spend some time at the falls. luxury sailing catamaran. content. So… what are you waiting for?
100 Port Douglas Travel Planner PORT DOUGLAS MAGAZINE 101