Walking The Wallaman

By Victoria Velton

While many tourists know Wallaman Falls by their selling point, ‘the longest single drop waterfall in the Southern Hemisphere’, not many have experienced them in their entirety.  

Most visit the viewing platforms from the day-use area and look out and down over the falls, without realising just how much more awaits around the bend.

Wear a tough pair of shoes, douse yourself in mozzie spray, pack a water bottle and, once you reach the day viewing area, follow the Djyinda Track.

You will walk through the dry bush atop the mountain before turning around the bend, where the descent begins. From bushland and tourist crowds, the plunge into rainforest is immediate and serene. The chatter and talk are replaced by whooping and eerie birdsong, chirping insects and the rustle of leaves.

The further down you hike, the more you’ll feel like you’re passing through time. Lichen covers the trees and the ferns reach for you as you pass. The trail is a series of switchbacks. Steep in places and consistently narrow, if you do pass someone you may need to hop up onto a stone to let them pass. Be careful, as the moss can be slippery after rain. Each hiker follows the code that those coming down give way to those panting their way back up. The returning passers-by share a smile because they know what you will find at the end of the trail.

When you finally reach the last tunnel of trees, you arrive at some great rocks, and the path leads to a small viewing platform. From there, Wallaman stretches upwards.

The view is glorious. On clear days, rainbows stretch out through the mist, whilst you stretch your gaze to try to glimpse the tops of the cliffs. That ancient feeling comes back to you as you look at the layers of stone that build towards the sky.

And now for the return journey. Go on, off you go, back up the trail. Take a swig of water and roll your shoulders because this is the hardest part. It’s your turn to wind your way back up the trai. Keep the chatter light and smiles secretive for the people coming down, lest you spoil the surprise.

When you finally reach the top and emerge back into the mountain bushland, you will find your heart beating from more than the exhilaration of the climb alone.

As you return to the day area, look out over the platform once more and marvel at what you have accomplished: you trekked the same distance as the longest single drop waterfall in the Southern Hemisphere.

FOR THIS JOURNEY

• Pack an ample supply of water, sun protection and insect repellent.

• Wear good hiking shoes as the track is steep and sometimes slippery.

• Allocate ample time, as it is a two-hour return trek, plus an hour’s drive from Ingham township.

• This hike is classed as moderate to high difficulty. Do not attempt if you are not physically capable.

• Wallaman Falls is part of Girringun National Park and a World Heritage rainforest site. Do not litter or bring your pets.

• There is little to no phone coverage.

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