Exploring Jourama Falls and the Black Hole Track

Adventure Awaits at Jourama Falls

In this episode of the Take A Hike podcast, host Blair Woodcock sits down with Townsville Bushwalking Club experts Luen Warneke and Cherry Judge to discuss one of North Queensland's premier outdoor destinations: Jourama Falls.

Located just 40 minutes from Townsville, Jourama Falls is a fantastic spot whether you are looking for a relaxing family picnic or a challenging off-track adventure. As the weather warms up, it is the perfect time to explore these stunning swimming holes and cascading terraces.

Three Ways to Experience Jourama

The team breaks down the area into three levels of adventure:

• The Accessible Day Trip: Perfect for families and friends. Take a short walk to the lookout or enjoy the many mini pools along Waterview Creek. The area is well-maintained, easy to access, and offers plenty of spots to cool off.
• The Challenge: For those wanting more, scramble up the spur from the lookout. It is a steep, 45-minute climb that requires good, grippy shoes and a bit of caution due to loose, friable soil. The view from the top, where the waterfall drops over the cliff edge, is well worth the effort.
• The Black Hole: A true adventure for experienced hikers. This route takes you past the top of Jourama Falls and deep into the rainforest. Hikers should be prepared for steep terrain and be on the lookout for stinging trees (Gimpy Gimpy). The Black Hole itself is a striking, deep pool named by Luen Warneke years ago after spotting it on aerial imagery.

Essential Hiking Tips

Before you pack your bags, keep these important points in mind:

• Safety First: The track to the Black Hole involves navigating through rainforest where you might encounter stinging trees. Wearing full-sleeved clothing is highly recommended.
• Leave No Trace: With the increased popularity of these tracks, it is vital to stay on the main path. Avoid 'trail braiding', which occurs when hikers walk off-track to avoid mud or debris, leading to eroded, widened trails.
• Camp Responsibly: If you plan to camp, ensure you book your permits online before you leave, as there is no internet reception at Jourama. If you are having a fire in a designated pit, bring your own firewood. Never cut wood from the National Park.
• Plan Ahead: For those looking for an epic adventure, it is technically possible to hike all the way from the top of Jourama Falls to Paluma Dam, though this is a significant undertaking that can take up to 10 hours.

Stay Connected with the Club

Want to join in on the next adventure? The Townsville Bushwalking Club has a packed schedule, including upcoming trips to Ollera Creek, Barron Gorge, and the Cascades.

Happy hiking!