Hidden on Robin Hood Station, in the rugged sandstone country of the Gulf Savannah, narrow Cobbold Gorge is one of the best-known experiences along the inland section of the Savannah Way.
The guided tour
Access to the gorge is by guided tour only. That protects the fragile environment and lets guides explain the geology, plants and wildlife. Cobbold Gorge describes its signature experience as about three hours, combining:
- An escarpment walk over the sandstone, with views over the gorge and surrounding country.
- The glass bridge, a glass-floored bridge that crosses the gorge high above the water.
- A boat cruise through the narrow gorge, with the cliffs close on either side.
Tours can book out in peak season, so book ahead. Check the operator's website for current tour times, prices and other experiences.
The gorge
Cobbold Gorge describes the gorge as a hidden oasis in the rugged sandstone formations of north Queensland. It's narrow, with sheer 30 m walls. On the guided tour you:
- Cruise the gorge between the cliffs.
- Walk along its walls on the escarpment.
- Cross the glass bridge, which Cobbold Gorge describes as Australia's first fully glass bridge.
Cobbold Gorge also lists bushwalking, birdwatching, kayaking, mountain biking and helicopter flights, and offers packages with accommodation, meals, the gorge tour and a helicopter flight. Its accessibility page explains which experiences suit visitors with limited mobility. Check that page before booking if access matters to you.
Getting there
Cobbold Gorge's directions:
- From Georgetown, on the Gulf Developmental Road, drive 40 km south to Forsayth. About 8 km of this is unsealed.
- From Forsayth, it's about 45 km to Cobbold Village: around 10 km of bitumen and 35 km of gravel.
- The trip takes about six hours from Cairns or Townsville.
Cobbold Gorge says most conventional vehicles and caravans can manage the road in normal conditions. Check road conditions before you leave, especially early or late in the season. If you're in a hire car, check whether the policy covers unsealed roads.
Day transfers have run from Forsayth on set days during the season. Check the website for current days and times. There's also a sealed airstrip at Forsayth for light aircraft.
See fuel, permits and road conditions and caravanning in the outback.
When to go
Cobbold Gorge is open from 1 April (or Easter, if earlier) to 31 October. It closes during the northern wet season, when heavy rain can cut roads across the Gulf. The middle of the dry season, roughly May to August, usually brings warm days and cool nights. See wet and dry season travel.
Cobbold Village facilities
Cobbold Gorge lists these facilities at Cobbold Village:
- Modern ensuite rooms and cabins
- Ensuite, drive-through and powered van sites, plus camping and self-contained sites
- Laundry facilities, camp kitchens and barbecues
- A licensed bistro and bar
- An infinity pool with a swim-up pool bar
The village is open seasonally from April to October, or from Easter if that's earlier.
Where to stay
Cobbold Village is the only accommodation at the gorge. Book ahead, especially in the cooler months. Cobbold Gorge recommends staying at least three days to enjoy the area. Check its website for current options and bookings.
Nearby
- Forsayth: the small former mining town at the end of the old railway line.
- Georgetown: on the Savannah Way, with a gem and mineral display at its visitor centre.
- Undara Volcanic National Park: further east, with lava tubes. See Undara.
- Croydon: to the west, with gold-rush heritage.
- Normanton: on the Gulf.
Travel tips
- Book tours and accommodation before you go.
- Carry water and fuel, and plan for long distances.
- Wear sturdy shoes and a hat for the escarpment walk.
- Bring insect repellent.
- Leave no trace and respect station property.
Related guides
Frequently asked questions
Can you visit Cobbold Gorge without a tour?
No. Access to Cobbold Gorge is by guided tour only. The signature tour runs about three hours and combines an escarpment walk, the glass bridge and a boat cruise through the gorge. Book through Cobbold Gorge.
Can you drive to Cobbold Gorge in a 2WD?
Cobbold Gorge says most conventional vehicles and caravans can manage the drive in normal conditions, but the last 35 km is gravel. Check conditions before you go. If you're in a hire car, check whether the policy allows unsealed roads.
How far is Cobbold Gorge from Cairns?
Cobbold Gorge says the drive is about six hours from Cairns or Townsville. From Georgetown it's 40 km south to Forsayth, then about 45 km to Cobbold Village.
When is Cobbold Gorge open?
Cobbold Gorge says it's open from 1 April (or Easter, if earlier) to 31 October each year. It closes over the wet season, so plan a dry-season visit.
How much dirt road is it to Cobbold Gorge?
Cobbold Gorge says about 8 km of the 40 km from Georgetown to Forsayth is unsealed. The 45 km from Forsayth to Cobbold Village is about 10 km of bitumen and 35 km of gravel. That's roughly 43 km of dirt in total from Georgetown.
Do you need a 4WD to get to Cobbold Gorge?
No, not usually. Cobbold Gorge says most conventional vehicles and caravans manage the road in normal dry-season conditions. Check road conditions first, and check your hire-car terms for unsealed roads.
Are there crocodiles at Cobbold Gorge?
Yes. Cobbold Gorge says the gorge has resident freshwater crocodiles, or freshies (Johnstone River crocodiles). They are generally less aggressive than saltwater crocodiles, but they should still be respected. You may spot them from the boat on the guided cruise.
Sources and further reading
Facts on this page were checked against these primary and official sources. Conditions change — confirm before you travel or buy.
- Getting Here — Cobbold Gorge
- Cobbold Gorge — Cobbold Gorge
- Crocodiles of Cobbold Gorge — Cobbold Gorge
