Written by Mia & Tom Hartley· Updated Apr 2026Quick Actions
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 Hinchinbrook Island
Hinchinbrook Island is Australia's largest island national park at 39,350 ha, a wilderness of rugged granite mountains, dense tropical rainforest, mangrove wetlands, and pristine beaches entirely preserved as national park. The island is famous for the Thorsborne Trail, a 32-km multi-day coastal trek regarded as one of Australia's great walks, passing remote beaches, rainforest, and creek crossings accessible only on foot. Strict visitor limits protect its extraordinary ecological values.
About
Hinchinbrook Island is Australia's largest island national park at 39,350 ha, a wilderness of rugged granite mountains, dense tropical rainforest, mangrove wetlands, and pristine beaches entirely preserved as national park. The island is famous for the Thorsborne Trail, a 32-km multi-day coastal trek regarded as one of Australia's great walks, passing remote beaches, rainforest, and creek crossings accessible only on foot. Strict visitor limits protect its extraordinary ecological values.
History & Significance
Hinchinbrook Island was gazetted as a national park in 1932, protecting one of Australia's most pristine tropical wilderness areas. The island's 39,350 hectares encompass rugged granite ranges and extensive rainforest, making it Australia's largest island national park. The Thorsborne Trail was established as a major walking route showcasing the island's coastal and rainforest environments, and remains one of Australia's iconic multi-day treks.
Sources & References
Warnings
Getting There
Water taxi from Cardwell (30 km south of Ingham) to the island's southern end. Also accessible by private boat. Cardwell is 180 km north of Townsville on the Bruce Highway.
Parking
Vehicle access to the island is not available—access is by boat from Cardwell or Ingham on the mainland. Day-use visitors and walkers must arrange private boat hire or water taxi services. No vehicle parking on the island itself.
Visitor Tips
- •The Thorsborne Trail must be walked south to north (Ramsay Bay to George Point). Camping permits must be booked months in advance. All water must be treated. Always check in/out with the water taxi operator for safety.
Quick Facts
At a Glance
Identity
- Also Known As
- ["Hinchinbrook Island National Park"]
The Place
- Significance
- National
Plan Your Visit
- Entry
- Paid
- Duration
- 4–6 days (Thorsborne Trail)
- Best Time
- May to September
Location
- Region
- North Queensland
- State
- Queensland
Good to Know
Highlights
Activities
Family & Visitor Info
- Ages
- Ages 10+ for day visits and swimming; Thorsborne Trail best for experienced hikers aged 12+
- Shade/Cover
- Good shade/cover
- Pram Friendly
- No
Food & Drink
BYO all supplies—no food outlets on island. Thorsborne Trail walkers must carry all provisions. Water available at campsites and some creek sources, but supplies are limited.
Features
Facilities
Nearby
Related Attractions
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.