Mt Storth - Trip Report
Mount Storth delivered steep northern ridgeline climbing, granite outcrops, summit views, Aboriginal rock art, and a varied descent via the Western Ridge and Killymoon Creek - a rewarding Townsville bushwalk through rugged Bowling Green Bay country.
Date: 9th May 2020
Leader: Luen & Jodie
A small group for this rewarding Mount Storth adventure, exploring one of the lesser-known peaks on the edge of Bowling Green Bay National Park. Mount Storth may be easy to spot from the highway south of Townsville, with its cliffs and boulder-strewn upper slopes, but on foot it offers much more than first impressions suggest - steep ridges, granite outcrops, pockets of varied vegetation, and far-reaching views across the coastal plain.
The group climbed via the usual steep and bouldery North Ridge route, steadily gaining height through open bushland and rocky terrain. One of the highlights of this route is the number of large granite boulders and slabs that invite a short wander out for a better vantage point, and we took full advantage of those opportunities along the way. As the elevation increased, the views opened up beautifully across the surrounding countryside, out towards Cape Cleveland, and across the Bowling Green landscape. Mount Storth is well known for these outlooks, and they did not disappoint.
Along the way, we also explored Aboriginal rock art sites in the area. These culturally significant places added another layer of depth to the day, and it was a privilege to move through the landscape with that history in mind. We even came across some art that was not previously known, making the day feel even more special. It was a reminder that Mount Storth is not just a scenic summit, but a place with deep cultural importance that deserves care and respect. The area is noted for its Aboriginal history, and hikers should always tread lightly and respectfully.
After enjoying the summit and the usual rocky lookout outcrop near the top, we began the descent via the Western Ridge. Compared with the steeper northern ascent, this side felt easier and flatter, allowing for a more relaxed finish to the circuit. We then worked our way back out via Killymoon Creek and the gun club side, rounding off a very satisfying loop through varied country.
The day also delivered some nice, smaller moments: interesting vegetation that changes with elevation, a strong sense of remoteness, and one memorable sighting of a bird of prey soaring high overhead, possibly a kite. With its mix of rugged ridgeline walking, granite viewpoints, cultural history, and expansive summit scenery, Mount Storth again proved itself to be one of the Townsville region's most underrated peaks.
- Luen
