The South Pinnacle (The Pinnacles) 1978
Climb the South Pinnacle in Townsville’s Pinnacles Range for sweeping views of Cleveland Bay, Fredericks Peak, and rugged bushland. This 1978 hike via Stoney Creek or ridge routes features open forest, rocky scrambles, and rewarding summit panoramas—an iconic North Queensland adventure.
The South Pinnacle (The Pinnacles) 19-20/5/78
Drive to Kelso along Ross River Road, turn right at Hammond Way and proceed to a point just beyond the Bohle River bridge. Walk from here across country towards the South Pinnacle, which is visible at this point until low hills are encountered. From here there are two possible routes to the saddle at the head of Stoney Creek.
Either: Follow the ridge line of the low hills to the saddle (This way is attractive as it is easy walking with very good views of the Pinnacles, Fredericks Peak and the coastal plains of Cleveland Bay.
Or Skirt around the base of the hills to the left and enter Stoney Creek. Follow the creek up to its source at the saddle. Some thick lantana can be expected in the various side creeks entering the headwaters of Stoney Creek. From the saddle, take the left-hand ridge (western) to the top of the main range via an obvious rocky outcrop. The ridge is an easy climb: some lantana is present, however, is present just below the top of the main range. To the top of the South Pinnacle along the main range is open forest, and easy going. The last hundred feet involves a scramble up well-protected rock. Return is via the reverse of the upward trip.
Times: based on a moderate walking pace with occasional stops.
Hammond Way to base of low hills 1 hour
Base of low hills to saddle via top of hills 1 hour 45 mins.
Base of low hills to saddle via Stoney Creek (est. only) 1 hour 45 mins to 2 hrs.
Saddle to summit of South Pinnacle 2 hour 30 mins
Total walking time 5 hour 15 mins
Map: Alice River. Sheet 8259-III 1:50,000 series
Note: Water is available in Stoney Creek only during wet season conditions. It is therefore an advantage to carry sufficient water for the duration of the trip.
