Top of Jourama Falls - Trip Report
A scenic Townsville Bushwalking Club walk to the top of Jourama Falls, with 17 walkers enjoying the alternative lookout route, granite pools, flowing waterfalls, swimming, wildlife, big views, and a social stop at Frosty Mango.
Sunday 26 April 2026
Location: Jourama Falls, Paluma Range National Park
Leader: Brent
Group: 17 walkers, including 11 visitors
Seventeen walkers met at BP Yabulu on Sunday morning for Brent's relaxed but adventurous trip to the top of Jourama Falls. With four cars organised for the car pool, the group headed north for a good climb, granite pools, flowing waterfalls, a picnic, a swim, and plenty of talking.
The group was a great mix, with 11 visitors joining as temporary members for the day. In total, there were 4 males and 13 females, making for a large, social, and very chatty crew. Before heading off, Cherry gave the group a timely warning about Gympie Gympie. Naturally, this led to jokes about whether anyone would be keen to join the "Gympie Gympie Club". As it turned out, one unlucky walker may have earned an unofficial membership later in the day.
The walk began with the usual approach towards Jourama Falls, though the group had to take the "alternative route" to the lookout due to the landslide affecting the normal track. The pace was steady, with lots of talking on the flatter sections and slightly less talking on the steeper bits. After reaching the outcrop, the group paused for a short break, enjoyed the views, and, of course, continued the conversation.
From there, the group pushed on towards the top of the falls. The track became more overgrown in places due to the recent (and long) wet season, and there was a little exploratory wandering, but we definitely were not lost... Eventually, the group reached the beautiful upper cascades and pools of Waterview Creek. With the waterfalls flowing well and the granite scenery looking spectacular in the sunshine, it was the perfect spot to settle in for lunch, swimming, and exploring.
Some walkers ventured closer to the top of the main falls, while others were very happy to stay around the main pools and cool off. The water was refreshing, the weather was ideal, and the whole area was looking fantastic after recent flows. There were great views from the upper sections, plenty of clear pools, and several impressive cascades tumbling through the smooth granite gorge.
The day also included a birthday celebration, complete with a chocolate cupcake, which was a very welcome bonus after the climb. A lizard was spotted among the wildlife, and the creek, rainforest, boulders, and open views gave everyone plenty to enjoy throughout the day.
Cherry led the way back down, and the descent was much quicker than the climb up. Once back at the cars, a few walkers made the important post-walk pilgrimage to Frosty Mango for ice cream, where there was, unsurprisingly, lots more talking.
It was a fantastic day out with perfect weather, flowing waterfalls, a strong turnout, and plenty of new faces on the trail. Thanks to Brent for leading, Cherry for helping guide the group down, and everyone who came along and made it such a fun, social walk. We hope to see many of the visitors out on the trails again soon.
Photos by Brent
