On the Chillagoe trail
D
o you love to explore? Chillagoe offers a plethora of
short walks and cave tours (including self-guided). Right
now is the perfect time to visit Chillagoe and discover the
exquisite limestone formations and caves in the area plus
indigenous rock art. It's an ideal destination for kids with so
much for them to do and activate their imaginations.
Be sure to start your Chillagoe discovery at The Hub
information centre where the helpful staff will assist you with
maps to help you plan your trip.
It's difficult not to be impressed by the beauty and
magnitude of the landscape and limestone caves found in
the Chillagoe-Mungana National Park. The once ancient coral
reef has transformed into a myriad of limestone bluffs that
contain hundreds of caves, of which a number of them are
available to the public to visit. Most of the cave walks are
short and suitable for everyone, but care should always be
taken and wear appropriate footwear. Avoid touching the
cave formations as they are easily damaged.
With a rich mining history, the ruins of the Chillagoe Smelters
is a must-see. Chillagoe also offers diverse birdlife and
vegetation and is a photographer's dream. At night, don't
forget to look up and take in the awesome Milky Way!
Chillagoe is only two hours from Mareeba and the road is
bitumen for most of the way except for a couple of well-
graded gravel sections. Allow yourself a few days to check
out all the sights and other treasures that the town has to
offer. A range of accommodation options are available.
Stella and Jarrah exploring Bauhinia Cave. Photo: Steven Nowakowski
Balancing Rock. Photo: Steven Nowakowski
14 What’s On & Where To Go May 2018