In November, 2018, we visited the Mamu Tropical Skywalk in North Queensland.
About 15 minutes outside of Innisfail you’ll find the chance to walk amongst the treetops in a tropical rainforest setting!
Mamu Tropical Skywalk allows visitors to explore the rainforest from the ground through to the treetops with panoramic views of the landscape below.
Located within the Wooroonoon National Park near Innisfail, the Mamu Tropical Skywalk is a 2.5km return walk made up of:
- Forest Walk
- Cantilever
- Skywalk
- Observation Tower
It’s suggested visitors allow at between 1-1.5 hours to complete the full walk.
Forest Walk
The Forest Walk is a wide path, flat in most places. The hardened surface is easy to navigate for those with little legs, prams, or wheelchairs. Aside from the top level of the Observation Tower, the walk has been made accessible to everyone.
Learn the area’s history
There are multiple covered shelters along the way that provide regular rest stops. The shelters are a place to soak up the history of the area with the beautifully presented displays.
For those who want to absorb as much information as possible (or who aren’t big fans of reading!), I’d highly recommend grabbing the audio device and headphones from the kiosk on your way into the Skywalk.
Along the track there are various checkpoints. By listening to the audio track that correlates with the number on the checkpoint, you’ll hear about the history of the area.
In particular, you’ll hear the story of the traditional land owners; European explorer Christie Palmerston; the construction of the railway through the area; and of the numerous cyclones that have all left their mark on the vegetation and landscape.
Cantilever
A 40m long elevated walkway leads you to a 10m long Cantilever. Suspended over the rainforest below you will find a viewing platform at the end of the Cantilever for photo opportunities and spectacular views.
Skywalk
Elevated high above the forest floor is the Skywalk. The 350m long walk takes you through the rainforest canopy and around large trees. The skywalk provides you with the most amazing views of the surrounding landscape.
Along the Skywalk, there is the opportunity to take a rest at one of the undercover rest areas. You can also exit the Skywalk completely and return to the Forest Walk. This is a great option for those who aren’t a huge fan of heights!
Observation Tower
Rising high above the Skywalk, and reaching 37m above ground level, is the Observation Tower. The views are pretty amazing from the lower level, but for those wanting a higher vantage point, take the stairs up to the top level. Stand in awe at the surrounding landscape as you look across to high mountain tops, and down towards the waterholes and gorges below.
The climb to the top of the tower isn’t one for the faint hearted! If you have a fear of heights you may find it a challenge to say the least.
The views once at the top are worth it!
After a full day of exploring both Paronella Park and the Skywalk, we finished off with an Ice Cream from the kiosk…
…and the kids slept all the way back to our accommodation!
In my opinion, Mamu Tropical Skywalk is one of the must-do attractions of North Queensland. If you want to experience the rainforest from both the ground and the ‘sky’ then the Skywalk is a great way to do this.
Our amateur photos don’t do this place justice! You’ll walk away from the Mamu Tropical Skywalk just that little bit more in love with our great country than you were before.
Getting there…
Mamu Tropical Skywalk is on the Palmerston Highway, approx 3.5 hours north of Townsville, 1.5hrs south of Cairns, and 30mins from Innisfail.
Where to Stay…
There is plenty of accommodation in the nearby Innisfail and Mission Beach areas.
If you have your own caravan, camper or tent then you might choose to stay at the Paronella Caravan and Camping grounds. If you booked your Skywalk pass as part of the Paronella Park package then a free site for the night is included.
Our visit to the Park was part of a 6 day holiday exploring Cairns and Innisfail. We chose to stay in an Airbnb called ‘TreeTops By The Sea’ at Bingil Bay, roughly 55 minutes away.
Admission Prices…
Visit the Mamu Tropical Skywalk website for information about current admission prices and passes available.
Paronella Park
Mamu Tropical Skywalk’s sister attraction is Paronella Park and is definitely one you should put on your must-do list as well. Nestled on a 5 hectare property beside Mena Creek Falls you’ll find a Castle amongst the rainforest, and learn the story of how one man’s dream became a reality.
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