Mitchell Tours and Attractions

Mount Moffatt

  

  Mount Moffatt National Park

The magnificent Mt Moffatt National Park is situated some 200km north of Mitchell along the Forest Vale Road. Originally operated as a large cattle run, Mt Moffatt Station as it used to be, was surrendered by Mr and Mrs D. Vincent to the Queensland National Parks and Wildlife Services upon the expiration of the grazing lease in 1979. En route the visitor is treated to some spectacular rural panoramas and unique viewing features such as the Warrong Slab Hut and Coffin Gully.

Mount Moffatt's Unique Natural Attractions

Nature's work in eroding rock to unusual patterns is well known but in the Mt Moffatt area it has become extraordinarily active. Cliffs plunging vertically 300 feet abound in the area and there are many overhanging rocks.

An unusual feature is the Marlong Arch, which appears to have been carved out of the soft sandstone of a mountain range by centuries of weathering.

Like many other interesting geological features in this region, Cathedral Rock is situated close to the road and one could be forgiven for thinking that it was built by the same master masons who created the great Cathedrals of Europe.

Caves of all shapes and sizes abound in the area, and the geological name given to the sandstone cliffs "The Precipice Series", is an appropriate description.

The Chimneys

Another spectacular feature of this region is the rock structure known as "The Chimneys". It can be seen from the road and is an excellent photographic subject.

Many are fascinated by Aboriginal art. In the Mt Moffatt area, there are fine examples of this ancient art within walking distance of the road. At The Tombs, a walk of 300 metres gives travellers an excellent gallery which includes a rare full length figure. This is an especially favoured spot as the drawings can be photographed without flashlight equipment. On the southern side of Cathedral Rock, only 100 metres from the road, another good example can be seen. There are many other known examples beside the road.

Easy access to plentiful deposits of ochre in Marlong Creek no doubt was the reason for the ancient Aborigine choosing this area for his art gallery. Visitors are asked to respect these irreplaceable works of art so that future generations may enjoy these treasures of our heritage.