Mount Moffatt Section

Deep in the Carnarvon Gorge region of Queensland, the Mount Moffatt Section is a rugged, off-the-beaten-path corner of Carnarvon National Park that rewards adventurous travellers with ancient landscapes, Indigenous rock art, and profound solitude. Unlike the more-visited Carnarvon Gorge, this section feels like a secret – a place where you can hike through open eucalypt forests, discover sandstone escarpments, and stand atop the park’s highest peak, Mount Moffatt (1,075 m). It’s a destination for self-drivers and hikers who want to experience the raw, quiet heart of the Australian bush.

Highlights & What to See

• Mount Moffatt Summit – A challenging 8 km return hike (allow 4–5 hours) that climbs through diverse vegetation to panoramic views over the Great Dividing Range. On clear days, you can see the distant Carnarvon Gorge.
• Indigenous Rock Art Sites – The Marlong Arch and nearby shelters feature stencils and engravings from the Bidjara people. Look for hand stencils, boomerangs, and animal tracks; these are some of the best-preserved examples in the region.
• Tombs Lookout – A short walk from the camping area leads to a viewpoint over the Consuelo Tableland. It’s a prime spot for sunset photography, with the escarpment glowing orange and gold.
• Wildlife Watching – Kangaroos, wallabies, and emus are common in the open woodlands. Listen for the call of the laughing kookaburra at dawn and dusk.
• Dark Sky Stargazing – With no light pollution, the night sky here is spectacular. Bring a star map or app to identify the Southern Cross and the Milky Way.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 1–2 nights camping at the Mount Moffatt camping area. Arrive early on Day 1 to set up camp and tackle the summit hike in the afternoon (start by 2 pm to avoid hiking in the dark). On Day 2, explore the rock art sites and Tombs Lookout in the morning, then drive out. If you have a high-clearance 4WD, consider an extra day to explore the less-accessible tracks. This section is not suitable for a day trip from a distant base – plan to camp or stay in a nearby town like Injune (1.5 hours away).

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Carnarvon Gorge – The star attraction of the park, with its lush gorge, towering cliffs, and the famous Moss Garden and Art Gallery. Combine with Mount Moffatt for a complete Carnarvon experience.
• Injune – The nearest town for fuel, supplies, and accommodation. The Injune Visitor Information Centre has maps and road condition updates.
• Consuelo Tableland – A vast, elevated plateau with 4WD tracks and remote camping. Ideal for those seeking even more isolation.
• Roma – About 3 hours south, Roma offers the Big Rig (oil and gas museum) and a good range of services. A convenient stop on the way to or from Mount Moffatt.
• Lake Murphy Conservation Park – A peaceful spot for birdwatching and a swim, located between Injune and Roma.

Please check official sources for current details.