Solo Adventure on Hinchinbrook Island

Island Time and Trail Tales

Another day, another adventure carved into the soul of Hinchinbrook Island. It's funny how quickly you adapt to the rhythm of a place. Berlin feels like a distant dream as I lace up my hiking boots, ready to embrace whatever today’s trail throws my way. The solitude is a balm, a chance to shed the layers of city life and reconnect with something primal.

The plan for today was simple: a solid hike somewhere along the Hinchinbrook Hiking, and then settling into the Zoe Bay Campgrounds for the night. The weather was playing along nicely, with the sun peeking through the clouds, promising warmth without the scorching heat. October in Hinchinbrook is pleasantly warm, with highs around 28°C and a gentle breeze – perfect for hiking. I made a mental note to swing by Friendly Grocer Cardwell to replenish some supplies, especially since I’m running low on snacks.


Discover breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife at Hinchinbrook Hiking, a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Queensland.

I started my day with a hearty breakfast at Terry and Mamiko's in Cardwell. It’s a cozy little spot where the locals gather, and you can always count on a good feed. I went for their classic fish and chips – crispy batter, perfectly cooked fish, and golden fries. It's the perfect way to fuel up before hitting the trails. Plus, the view overlooking Hinchinbrook Island is simply stunning.

Fuelled and ready, I hit the Thorsborne Trail. The trail was calling, and the lure of Hinchinbrook's raw beauty was too strong to resist. I wanted to experience firsthand what makes this track so famous, and the fact that only 40 hikers are allowed on the island at any given time makes it all the more special. The Thorsborne Trail is known for its challenging seasonal hiking conditions between October and April, so I made sure to be well-prepared.

The hike was nothing short of spectacular. The trail wound through lush rainforest, opened up to panoramic coastal views, and challenged me with rocky ascents and descents. The views were simply breathtaking, with rugged mountain peaks, pristine beaches, and the tranquil waters of the bay stretching out before me.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

There were moments where I had to stop and catch my breath, not just from the physical exertion but also from the sheer beauty of it all. The air was thick with the scent of eucalyptus and damp earth, and the sounds of the forest – birdsong, rustling leaves, the distant crash of waves – created a symphony of nature that was both calming and invigorating.

After a few hours of hiking, I made my way to Zoe Bay Campgrounds. The campsite is nestled right at the mouth of South Zoe Creek, offering stunning ocean views right from your tent. I found a cozy spot tucked under the thick canopy of the rainforest, set up my tent, and then headed straight for Zoe Falls.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Zoe Bay Campgrounds, where nature meets adventure in Queensland's stunning Hinchinbrook National Park.

The short walk to the falls was a treat in itself, with the trail winding through the rainforest, crossing small streams, and leading to a sparkling freshwater pool at the base of the falls. The water cascaded over cliffs and ledges, gathering in pools before plunging into the impossibly blue pool below. I couldn't resist taking a dip, washing away the dust and sweat of the day in the cool, refreshing water.

Back at the campsite, I cooked up a simple dinner on my portable stove, savoring every bite as I watched the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple. The solitude was profound, broken only by the crackling of the fire and the gentle lapping of waves against the shore. This is what I came here for – to escape the noise and chaos of modern life and find peace in the embrace of nature.

Before settling in for the night, I made sure to double-check my gear and secure my food, remembering the warnings about the local wildlife. Hinchinbrook is home to a diverse array of creatures, including crocodiles and marine stingers, so it's always best to be cautious.

As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this incredible experience. Hinchinbrook Island has a way of getting under your skin, of reminding you what truly matters in life. It's a place where you can disconnect from the world and reconnect with yourself, where you can find adventure, solitude, and a profound sense of peace.

This morning, before heading back to the mainland, I made sure to grab some supplies at Friendly Grocer Cardwell. It’s open from 7 AM to 7 PM every day, so it’s super convenient. I stocked up on some local goodies to take back to Berlin – a taste of Queensland to share with Lena.


Explore the vibrant flavors of Queensland at Friendly Grocer Cardwell, your local supermarket for fresh produce and groceries.

For lunch, I swung by North Shore Tavern in Townsville. I’d heard great things about their menu, and I wasn’t disappointed. They have everything from pizzas and salads to steaks and pub classics. I opted for the grilled salmon with avocado salsa – fresh, flavorful, and just what I needed after a day of hiking. The tavern has a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a casual meal.


Discover North Shore Tavern in Burdell – where great food meets vibrant pub culture in Queensland.

Dinner tonight was at Wild Local, also in Townsville. This place is all about showcasing the best of North Queensland’s produce, and their seafood is out of this world. I indulged in some freshly cooked prawns and local fish, savoring the flavors of the region. It’s amazing what happens when a world-traveled chef falls in love with a local fish hunter – you get a city-style café with the absolute best fresh seafood.


Experience Queensland's freshest seafood and gourmet delights at Wild Local - a culinary treasure in Ingham.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, I'm excited to explore more of what this region has to offer. My itinerary includes a trip with Absolute North Charters and a visit to Girringun National Park. I’m also planning to check out the Channel Inn Bar and Bistro for a relaxing evening.

I'm also keeping an eye out for local events. I heard that the Cardwell UFO Festival is a fun event with family activities, markets, and an alien costume party. There’s also the Cairns Hardware Cardwell Barra Bonanza, which sounds like a blast.

Hinchinbrook Island is more than just a destination; it's an experience that stays with you long after you've left its shores. It's a reminder of the power and beauty of nature, and a testament to the importance of preserving these wild places for future generations.

Now, as I sit here, penning down my thoughts, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment. The day has been long, the trails challenging, but the rewards have been immeasurable. Hinchinbrook, you've captured a piece of my heart, and I know I'll be back someday to explore your hidden corners and bask in your untamed beauty.

Tomorrow, Girringun National Park awaits, and I can’t wait to see what adventures it holds.