WikiCamps Australia

Mt Etna and Bat Cleft Walk Trailhead

Day Use Area

Contact

253 Rossmoya Road, The Caves, Queensland.

parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/mount-etna-caves/things-to-do

Description

Mount Etna walk (Grade: medium) Distance: 2.4km return Time: allow 1hr Expansive views of Limestone Ridge, the historic Pilkington Quarry and old mine workings feature strongly on this walk. Experience limestone landscapes before and after mining from Bench 9. The 1.2km track uphill to Bat Cleft is quite strenuous with many steps. Only relatively fit people should attempt this walk or join the Bat Cleft tour. Walk in the cooler months or early morning to avoid the heat. From the lookout, the onward boardwalk to the Bat Cleft is closed to independent visitors during the bats breeding season from 1 November to the end of February. During this time, it is accessible only on a ranger-led guided tour (operating from early December to mid February). Bat Cleft Tours run for about three hours in the evening under torchlight along the Mount Etna walk (2.4km return). The track is steep and the walk may be strenuous for unfit people. Sections of the track have many steps. Children under 15 are welcome but must be under adult supervision. Tours operate every summer from December to February on Monday, Friday and Saturday evenings. Tour bookings: (07) 4936 0570 (work hours) 0429 630 923 (after hours) The Mount Etna walk is not suitable for wheelchairs, strollers or prams. Pets are not permitted. No camping or overnight parking.