Upper Gold Creek Circuit - Trip Report

Sunday, 14 February 2021
Leader: Luen Warneke
Participants: 9

Another weekend in the rainforest. Another long, wet, slightly mad idea that somehow turns into one of those days you remember for years. Nine of us met at Paluma Dam for a 20 km creek-hopping adventure into the headwaters of Upper Gold Creek. This is not a casual stroll. It is a full-day, Grade 5 circuit that rewards patience, navigation skills, and a willingness to embrace wet boots.

In via Foxlee's Lookout

We began on track, making steady progress towards Foxlee's Lookout along the Foxlee Track. The early walking was cool and shaded, classic Paluma forest, tall timber and filtered light.

At Foxlee's Lookout, we took in the views which stretch out over layers of rainforest-clad ridges, a reminder that the creeks we descend are carving through serious country. It is a good psychological moment in the day - the last easy footing before we head off-track.

From there, we left the comfort of the marked trail and began our descent towards Gold Creek Falls and the upper reaches of Gold Creek.

Into the Headwaters

Dropping off-track always sharpens the senses. The forest thickens, the ground becomes uneven, and the line of travel becomes a decision rather than a given.

After a bit of thick rainforest, we reached the creek - a flat sandy bed, tea-coloured water, and dense rainforest pressing in on both sides. Upper Gold Creek is a beautiful system. The walking is surprisingly pleasant in sections, sandy and flat, with small cascades and granite features beginning to appear as you move downstream.

The creek winds its way gently at first. Ferns line the banks. Tree roots clutch at the soil like grasping hands. It feels enclosed and lush, textbook tropical rainforest.

We kept moving, wading through knee-deep sections, rock-hopping where possible, choosing lines through the bends of the creek. Conversation rises and falls on creek walks. Sometimes you are chatting. Sometimes you are simply listening to water.

Just before Gold Creek Falls is a bend in the creek. It appears that in high flood, the creek would spill over into the Cairns Creek, as the saddle is on a bend and quite low.

Gold Creek Falls

Eventually, the creek announces its drama. Gold Creek Falls appears with clean granite and falling water framed by rainforest. We stopped there to enjoy the views, regroup, snack, and simply take it in. It is one of Paluma's quiet highlights - remote enough to feel earned, scenic enough to justify every scratch and wet step.

After soaking up the moment, we re-joined the track system for the walk out. Granite slabs became more frequent, a sign that civilisation, or at least a defined path, was near.

The Walk Out

The return on track felt almost luxurious after hours of creek navigation. Tired legs but high spirits, we made our way back towards Paluma Dam. By the time we reached the cars, it had been roughly 20 km of rainforest, creek, track, and off-track travel. A proper day out. Nine walkers. One long circuit. Wet boots. A few scratches. And that quiet satisfaction that comes from moving through wild country under your own steam.

- Luen