Finch Hatton Gorge
Finch Hatton Gorge — Finch Hatton](/au/places/qld/finch-hatton) Gorge is a picturesque rainforest gorge in [Eungella National…
Natural Landmark in Queensland
Find Nearby Accommodation
Hotels, apartments, hostels and luxury stays
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links, at no extra cost to you.
About Finch Hatton Gorge
[Finch Hatton](/au/places/qld/finch-hatton) Gorge is a picturesque rainforest gorge in [Eungella National Park](/au/national-parks/qld/eungella-national-park) featuring crystal-clear rockpools, waterfalls, and lush tropical vegetation. The gorge contains two major swimming holes — Araluen Falls and the Wheel of Fire Falls — accessible via short forest walks through ancient rainforest with abundant birdlife. This is one of Queensland's most beautiful and underrated swimming destinations, with natural rock slides and plunge pools of exceptionally clear water.
About
[Finch Hatton](/au/places/qld/finch-hatton) Gorge is a picturesque rainforest gorge in [Eungella National Park](/au/national-parks/qld/eungella-national-park) featuring crystal-clear rockpools, waterfalls, and lush tropical vegetation. The gorge contains two major swimming holes — Araluen Falls and the Wheel of Fire Falls — accessible via short forest walks through ancient rainforest with abundant birdlife. This is one of Queensland's most beautiful and underrated swimming destinations, with natural rock slides and plunge pools of exceptionally clear water.
History & Significance
Finch Hatton Gorge is located within Eungella National Park, established to protect significant rainforest and wildlife habitat in the Mackay region. The gorge has long been valued by locals and visitors for its exceptional natural swimming holes and pristine rainforest environment, though it remains less crowded than more famous Queensland swimming destinations.
Warnings
Getting There
Drive 80 km west of Mackay on Peak Downs Highway, turn north at Mirani toward Eungella, then follow Finch Hatton Gorge Road 27 km to the car park. The last section is unsealed.
Parking
Free car park at the gorge entrance with reasonable capacity for day visitors. Accessible for standard vehicles; limited facilities for larger caravans or campervans due to narrow approach roads.
Nearest airport
Visitor Tips
- •Arrive early on summer weekends as the car park is small and the swimming holes are very popular. The Araluen Falls swim is safe but avoid the natural rock slides unless you understand the currents. Combined with Eungella platypus viewing, this makes an excellent Mackay hinterland day trip.
Find Nearby Accommodation
Hotels, apartments, hostels and luxury stays
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Quick Facts
At a Glance
Identity
- Also Known As
- []
The Place
- Significance
- Regional
Plan Your Visit
- Entry
- Free
- Duration
- 2–4 hours
- Best Time
- April to October
- Hours
- Open 24 hours.
Location
- Area
- Finch Hatton
- Region
- Mackay
- State
- Queensland
Good to Know
Highlights
Activities
Family & Visitor Info
- Ages
- All ages, but young children need close supervision around water and slippery rocks
- Shade/Cover
- Good shade/cover
- Pram Friendly
- No
Food & Drink
Picnic areas available; bring your own food and water. No commercial food outlets on-site.
Features
Facilities
Travellers also visited
Tap + to build a trip
Find Nearby Accommodation
Hotels, apartments, hostels and luxury stays
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Nearby
Campsites(5)
Trails(3)
Attractions(2)
Toilets(3)
Dump Points(1)
Mirani Dump Point
Free · 23.8km