Carnarvon Gorge
Know before you go
The Carnarvon Great Walk is a Class 5 track – the highest level of difficulty. It can be very steep, with a lot of loose stones and dirt. Ensure you’re fit enough before setting out.
When to go: The walk is closed October–March and overnight winter temperatures can fall to zero. Pick a shoulder season for maximum daylight hours and pleasant night-time temperatures.
Book it: Buy a permit and book campsites before you go at qld.gov.au/camping or call 13 QGOV (13 74 68).
What to bring
This is a wilderness walk in a remote area, so make sure you have everything you need before setting off. If you’re buying new, it’s worth seeking out lightweight kit – every kilo counts when hiking uphill. Always take out all rubbish with you.
Sleeping:
Tent
Sleeping mat
Sleeping bag rated to –15°C
Pillow/dry bag of clothes Head torch
Eating and drinking:
Fuel stove
Fuel Lighter/matches Cooking pot Bowl
Spoon
Pocket knife Mug/cup Food for 6 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners and 6 days’ worth of snacks (plus dinner and breakfast at either end of the walk). See ‘What to eat’ on p113 for ideas Water bottles/bladders with 3–5L capacity (remember: 1L of water weighs 1kg)
Water sterilisation tablets/filtration system
Clothes:
Hiking trousers
Hiking shirts x 2
Socks and undies
Soft shell layer (windproof, warm)
Camp clothes (light, comfy shoes, warm nightwear that stays dry) Hat and sunglasses
Navigation:
Topographic map (we used the official Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service Great Carnarvon Walk map, which includes track notes)
Compass
GPS (optional)
Emergency: Miscellaneous:
Washing kit Toilet paper Small trowel Hand sanitiser Dry bags Sunscreen