Lawn Hill & Carnarvon Gorge

22 Day Itinerary - Birdsville, Mt Isa, Lawn Hill Gorge, Winton, Longreach, Emerald, Carnarvon Gorge NP

Departing from Adelaide our route is almost due north up the Birdsville Track and Diamantina Development Road to Mount Isa and then to Lawn Hill Gorge. Lawn Hill Gorge is in Boodjamulla National Park, one of Queensland's most scenic national parks. Situated within the remote north-west highlands of Queensland, the national park features spectacular gorge country, sandstone ranges and World Heritage fossils. Lawn Hill Gorge is formed by numerous freshwater springs and its sandstone and its emerald waters make it a visual splendour. The route then follows the Queensland Fossil trail, passing through Richmond, Hughenden, Winton, Longreach and Emerald before a short run south to Carnarvon Gorge. Hidden in the rugged ranges of Queensland's central highlands, Carnarvon Gorge features towering sandstone cliffs, vibrantly coloured side gorges, diverse flora and fauna and Aboriginal rock art.

Day 1 -Depart Adelaide travelling via Clare, Jamestown, Orroroo, and Hawker to Marree on the Oodnadatta Track.

Day 2 - We travel up the Birdsville track to Birdsville and camp the night on the banks of the Diamantina River.

Day 3 - The route continues almost due north up the Diamantina development road through the town of Bedourie to Boulia and beyond.

Day 4 - Mornings run to Mt Isa and into camp. A visit to the Riversleigh Fossil Centre and look around the town in the afternoon.

Day 5 - We continue north to the Gregory River for lunch. In the afternoon we visit the Riversleigh palaeontology site before heading into Lawn Hill for three nights.