Section 01Cooktown to Gunnawarra

• Challenging. Parts of this section are challenging and should not be travelled alone.

• Humid tropical – hot, humid summer, warm winter in coastal areas. Tropical cyclones may be expected during the summer wet season.
• Tropical savannah – hot, dry summer, warm winter in inland areas.
• Summer travel is not recommended. Break camp early and avoid travel during the heat of the early afternoon.
• Drought may affect this section. During drought conditions there may not be water or feed for horses.
• Floods may affect this section.
• Always check conditions before travelling.

• Ranges from quite easy to extremely difficult. Mostly not suitable for bicycles or horsedrawn vehicles.

• Section One Maps. Navigational aids.

• Water can be difficult in the dry season.
• Water must be carried in some parts.
• Water conservation measures necessary.

The best time for travel is as soon as possible after the wet season (April/May) to capitalise on surface water and natural feed for the first 800 km. Long-distance trekkers should plan their departures from Cooktown so that they can be south of  Townsville before September otherwise heat and lack of water make travelling too stressful on humans and animals.

• Horses
  Horses coming from anywhere south of Rockhampton will need time to aclimatise to the extreme conditions. Horses should be given a couple of weeks to adjust to the heat before starting out. Consideration could be given to obtaining local horses as they are accustomed to the extreme climate.
• Cyclists
  Parts of this section are remote and rugged and unsuitable for cyclists. Refer to Guidebook notes for alternative road routes to bypass these sections.

You must be a member to buy a guidebook