What to Do Around the Mossman River

The Mossman River carves a pretty scene through the landscape of the Daintree Rainforest, one of Australia’s most beautiful natural hotspots. Here, native species frolic amongst lush greenery, and ancient rivers carve through impressive landscapes.

Getting to Know the Mossman River

Set in the Cape York Peninsula of Queensland, the river begins under Devil’s Thumb in the sprawling Mount Carbine Tableland of the Great Dividing Range. It flows through carved, ancient valleys in the Mount Lewis Forest Reserve before hitting the deeply etched sides of the Mossman Gorge. From there, it winds onto coastal plains outside of Mossman before emptying into Trinity Bay and the Coral Sea.

The River itself was named after Hugh Mosman in 1873 by the famous explorer George Dalyrmple. It now proves to be one of the Daintree Rainforest’s most sought after landmarks.

Visitors to the region can enjoy a range of activities around the river’s banks. Just watching the crystal water flow along the length of it is mesmerising, while the ancient plant life and animal species that live around it are well worth keeping an eye out for.

When it passes through the Mossman Gorge, you can admire the impressive boulder garden that characterises the area. Here, the whole river appears to be giant granite boulders that cast a surreal scene to the surroundings.

Things to Do at the Mossman River

There is plenty to get stuck into around the Mossman River, not least taking beautiful hikes through the surrounding rainforest scenery.

  • Mossman Gorge Centre

    This new indigenous eco-tourism development marks the start of the Mossman Gorge. Here, visitors can learn about the spectacular landscape, from its expansive history to its ecology in the present day.

  • Guided Indigenous Tour

    This part of Australia is deeply imbued with a rich indigenous heritage. Stories and age-old narratives sear the landscape, while tribes still carry out ancient traditions in the region. You can take a guided Dreamtime Walk through the Mossman Gorge past the Mossman River with the Kuku Yalanji people, learning about their traditions, culture, and important history.

  • Watersport Activities

    River drift snorkelling is a popular activity in the deeper parts of the river. While doing this, visitors can float down the river admiring the underwater world as they go. If you’d like to stay above the water level, you can hop in a kayak and row your way along the river. This gives you the chance to see some of the spectacular scenery up close and from a new perspective entirely.

    For something a little more refreshing, you can take a swim in the cool waters of the river. Cool off in the hot Australian sun and get amongst some of the area’s prominent wildlife.

  • The Daintree Rainforest Walk

    One of the best ways to explore the Mossman River, though, is to walk along its length. Taking you through the green canopy of the Daintree Rainforest, you’ll be exposed to ancient trees, colourful plant life, and a whole host of native creatures.

    As you go, you’ll pass cascading waterfalls that thunder into deep pools below, soaring mountains, and impressive gorges.

The Mossman River and its surrounding scenery really is a spectacular sight to behold. Edged by the lush Daintree Rainforest, it brings visitors cool waters, a fabulously rich indigenous history, and impressive natural wonders.

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.

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