Mount Hypipamee National ParkMount Hypipamee National Park is a small protected area on the Atherton Tablelands in Far North Queensland, Australia, centered on a prominent volcanic maar known as the Hypipamee Crater. The park preserves the crater and adjacent native forest.
The main attraction is the crater itself, a near-circular sinkhole with steep walls that is viewed from established platforms and short tracks. Surrounding patches of wet forest support local plant and bird life and are visible from the walkways.
The crater formed as a volcanic explosion feature in the region’s volcanic province; the park conserves the geological feature and a remnant of native vegetation. It is managed by Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service.
The park sits on the Atherton Tablelands inland from Cairns in Far North Queensland and is typically reached as part of drives around the Tablelands region.
- Crater dimensions: The crater measures roughly 61 meters across and about 82 meters deep and is viewed from established platforms and short walks.
- Visiting practicalities: The park is compact and primarily visited for a short stop to view the crater and surrounding rainforest while touring the Atherton Tablelands.
What to See#
- Hypipamee Crater: A near-circular volcanic maar with steep walls that is the park’s focal point; the crater is the subject of the site’s short walking tracks and viewing platforms.
- Surrounding forest: Patches of wet tropical and riparian forest surround the crater and provide habitat for local bird species and native plants.
Nearby Attractions to Mount Hypipamee National Park#
Best Time to Visit Mount Hypipamee National Park#
Dry season is preferable for access; the park is a short-visit natural feature best enjoyed when trails are dry.
Weather & Climate near Mount Hypipamee National Park#
Mount Hypipamee National Park's climate is classified as Humid Subtropical - Humid Subtropical climate with warm summers (peaking in January) and cool winters (coldest in July). Temperatures range from 10°C to 27°C. Heavy rainfall (2413 mm/year), wettest in February with a pronounced dry season.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | 18° - 27° | 23° | 259 mm | - | - | 3.3 m/s | - | - |
| February | - | 18° - 27° | 22° | 539 mm | - | - | 2.4 m/s | - | - |
| March | - | 18° - 26° | 22° | 445 mm | - | - | 3.8 m/s | - | - |
| April | - | 16° - 23° | 20° | 236 mm | - | - | 5.2 m/s | - | - |
| May | - | 14° - 21° | 18° | 164 mm | - | - | 4.3 m/s | - | - |
| June | - | 11° - 20° | 15° | 268 mm | - | - | 3.1 m/s | - | - |
| July | - | 10° - 19° | 15° | 89 mm | - | - | 3.1 m/s | - | - |
| August | - | 11° - 21° | 16° | 68 mm | - | - | 4.3 m/s | - | - |
| September | - | 13° - 23° | 18° | 65 mm | - | - | 3.7 m/s | - | - |
| October | - | 14° - 25° | 20° | 28 mm | - | - | 3.6 m/s | - | - |
| November | - | 16° - 27° | 22° | 87 mm | - | - | 3.7 m/s | - | - |
| December | - | 17° - 27° | 22° | 165 mm | - | - | 2.8 m/s | - | - |
How to Get to Mount Hypipamee National Park#
Mount Hypipamee National Park is located in the Atherton Tablelands region; access is by local roads from nearby towns such as Atherton and Herberton. The park is a short drive from main roads and offers limited facilities.
Tips for Visiting Mount Hypipamee National Park#
- The crater and surrounding area are fragile - stick to formed paths to protect vegetation.
- This is a compact park with short walking circuits; plan for a leisurely stop rather than a full-day hike.
- Bring insect repellent in the warmer, wetter months.