37 Mt Sorrow Ridge Trail

37) Mt Sorrow Ridge Trail - 9th September 2015
Return Distance 8.5km, Max Elevation 706m, Climb 678m, Time 5.5hr, Level - Hard - Pops
Co-ordinates: -16.078320, 145.467150
My Blog:
This was a hard but enjoyable climb. I had only intended to reci this walk, as the N.P. advice was to not go in solo. But a little voice in my head, the fact that the track was well marked and a dozen other people were on the climb at the same time made me keep going. I'm glad I did as the rewarding view at the top was fantastic. The amusing thing was that at 64, I was more than twice the age of any of the other trekkers!
Short Description:
This track is a beautiful but hard walk just out of Cape Tribulation township. The trail climbs from the coastal lowlands of Cape Tribulation, up the rainforest-clad ridge of Mount Sorrow to a viewing platform, offering views of the beautiful Daintree coastline, Cape Tribulation Beach, Snapper Island and beyond.
Getting there:
250m north of the Kulki day-use area at Cape Tribulation, there is a 'pull-off' area on the right that will accommodate 5/6 vehicles. The signposted start of the trail is directly opposite this.
If you come in from Port Douglas, this is a 86km drive with a ferry crossing (fee applies), that will take about an hour and a half.
Maps:
Mount Sorrow
Route/Trail Notes:
Cross the road from the car park, you will see the start of the trail, which winds through the scrub before heading up. This track is now well worn and thanks to fellow bushwalkers has been clearly marked with pink flagging tape. The 1st kilometre is fairly steep with log hops and tree roots to watch for, but the 2nd undulates slightly and can be power walked. From there to the top the trail is very steep and you will be pulling yourself up tree roots and tiny rock handholds; there is even a section where a rope has been provided to aid your climb to the top viewing platform.
Return by the same route.
Permits/Costs:
None. There is no camping on this walk - Campsite is Noahs Beach or stay at one of the accommodations in Cape Tribulation township.
Other References/Comments:
There are no creeks on the walk, so take plenty of water (min 3lt). Stinging Trees, Leeches (in the wet season) and spiky palm leaves and creepers abound! This is also Cassowary country. The forest is thick, so no views till you reach the summit. Leave yourself plenty of time for the return walk as the 'canopy cover' dusk will be about 1hr earlier than in the open.
Don't be tempted with a cooling swim on Cape Tribulation Beach on your return, as you might just get snapped up!