Small Paluma Adventures to Burn Off Easter Eggs

Did you overindulge in chocolate this weekend? If you are looking to discover some small adventures to burn off those Easter eggs this long weekend, we have you covered. In our latest episode of the Take A Hike podcast, host Blair Woodcock sat down with Townsville Bushwalking Club regulars Cherry Judge and Luen Warneke to discuss easy, one-day escapes just an hour drive away in beautiful Paluma.

If you missed out on booking accommodation or just want a quick day trip away from the coastal humidity, these beginner-friendly hikes are the perfect answer.

Ethel Creek Falls

If you want to get the kids away from their screens, Cherry highly recommends Ethel Creek Falls. This is a beautiful, clearly marked, four-hour return hike. It is a relaxing walk, usually a few degrees cooler than in Townsville, making it a pleasant family outing.

• Getting there: Park at the Witts Lookout car park as you enter Paluma Village. Head towards Cloudy Creek, look for the little rope across the creek, and follow the pink or disc-shaped markers down to the falls.
• Top Tip: Pack your swimmers! The water is cool, refreshing, and perfect for a mid-hike dip. Do not forget the insect repellent, as the mozzies can be quite vicious right now.

Birthday Creek Wading

For those looking for a gentle introduction to off-track hiking, Luen and Cherry suggest a creek-wading adventure at Birthday Creek. While it requires some basic navigation skills and a map, it is relatively short and incredibly rewarding.

• The Route: Drive along the Dam Road and park at the Big Birthday Creek car park. Take the simple 400-metre National Park track to the falls, then simply jump in and follow the creek! You will wade through stunning aqua-blue water surrounded by lush ferns and a beautiful canopy. Keep following the creek until you turn up into Little Birthday Creek, which eventually spits you back out onto the Dam Road.
• Top Tip: Wear an old pair of sturdy hiking boots. Creek beds are uneven, and you will definitely be getting your feet wet! The whole loop is only a few kilometres and takes about two to three hours.

Witts Lookout and The Rock Gardens

If you prefer to stay completely on the trail, Witts Lookout is a fantastic option. Park at the McClellans Lookout area, enjoy the initial views, and then take the turn-off to the upper and lower sections of Witts Lookout for unbeatable valley vistas.

Another magical, beginner-friendly spot is the Rock Gardens. Accessible from the Dam Road park, this hike winds through a beautiful landscape filled with giant, mossy boulders and ferns. You can easily link tracks like the Rock Gardens, Witts Lookout, and Cloudy Creek together for a full day of simple, on-track exploring.

Mossy Falls: The Shortest Hike

Luen also shared a secret for photographers: a super short hike to a spot called Mossy Falls. It is a beautiful granite slide where water cascades over lush moss.

• Finding it: As you drive out towards Lake Paluma on the Dam Road, keep an eye out on your right side just before you reach the dam. You will need to find a safe place to pull your car off the road. For detailed directions, search for it on Wanderstories.

Whether you are wading through pristine creeks or taking in the views from the lookouts, Paluma offers some of the best small adventures in North Queensland. Grab your map, pack plenty of water, and stay safe out there. Happy hiking!