Mount Bartle Frere
Mountain Queensland's highest peak within Wooroonooran National Park
Queensland’s Mount Bartle Frere in Wooroonooran National Park is the state’s highest peak. Climbers and birders tackle steep rainforest trails to reach mossy summits, waterfalls and endemic Wet Tropics species.
Mount Bartle Frere is the highest peak in the state of Queensland, Australia, rising to about 1,622 m. It sits in the Wet Tropics area within Wooroonooran National Park.
The mountain is reached through dense tropical rainforest and cloud forest, with steep, often very wet tracks leading toward the summit. On clear days the summit provides views toward the coastal plain and the Coral Sea; conditions are frequently cloudy at higher elevations.
The peak was given a European name in the 19th century and since then has been visited by local bushwalkers and naturalists; the surrounding park protects significant rainforest habitat. Over time the area has remained important for conservation as part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area.
Mount Bartle Frere stands in the Bellenden Ker range in far north Queensland, roughly 60 km south of Cairns, surrounded by steep ridges and protected rainforest.
- Altitude: 1,622 m; Queensland's highest peak and often cloud-covered, so weather can change rapidly on the ascent.
- Access: Trailheads are commonly accessed from roads within Wooroonooran National Park; routes are steep, muddy and best attempted in dry conditions by experienced walkers.
How to Get to Mount Bartle Frere #
Located in Wooroonooran National Park, access is from the Cassowary Coast region. Nearest service towns include Cairns and Innisfail; park entry and trailheads are reached by sealed and unsealed roads from these centers. Check Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service for permits, track conditions, and safety notices.
Tips for Visiting Mount Bartle Frere #
- Start early: summit attempts in the Wet Tropics are often slowed by afternoon storms and heavy cloud.
- Bring insect repellent and waterproof clothing; the area is famously wet and leechy in places.
- Check permits: Mount Bartle Frere is in Wooroonooran National Park and some routes require registration or ranger briefings.
Best Time to Visit Mount Bartle Frere #
May-October dry season is the safest and most reliable time to climb Mount Bartle Frere.
Weather & Climate near Mount Bartle Frere #
Mount Bartle Frere's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with warm summers (peaking in January) and cool winters (coldest in July). Temperatures range from 11°C to 26°C. Heavy rainfall (4918 mm/year), wettest in March.
January
January is the warmest month with highs of 26°C and lows of 17°C. Heavy rain (676 mm).
Comfort
Weather
February
February is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 18°C. Heavy rain (659 mm).
Comfort
Weather
March
March is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 17°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (786 mm).
Comfort
Weather
April
April is mild with highs of 22°C and lows of 16°C. Heavy rain (714 mm).
Comfort
Weather
May
May is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 14°C. Heavy rain (405 mm).
Comfort
Weather
June
June is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 11°C. Significant rainfall (180 mm).
Comfort
Weather
July
July is the coolest month with highs of 17°C and lows of 11°C. Heavy rain (341 mm).
Comfort
Weather
August
August is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 11°C. Heavy rain (329 mm).
Comfort
Weather
September
September is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 13°C. Significant rainfall (112 mm).
Comfort
Weather
October
October is mild with highs of 22°C and lows of 14°C. Significant rainfall (171 mm).
Comfort
Weather
November
November is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 16°C. Heavy rain (261 mm).
Comfort
Weather
December
December is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 17°C. Heavy rain (284 mm).
