Tully River Paddle
Explore the Tully River, a whitewater paddler's paradise in North Queensland. Perfect for all skill levels, from gentle flows for beginners to adrenaline-pumping drops for pros.
Location - Tully National Park, Far North Queensland, Australia
Duration - half day to several days
Distance - Depends
Difficulty - Class 3-5 (option to choose your section)
Put in - Depends
Take out - Depends
Gauge - Bolinda Estate & Hydro Station Release
Welcome to the Tully River, a whitewater paddler's paradise nestled in the heart of Far North Queensland. Known for its vibrant ecosystem, rich cultural history, and thrilling rapids, the Tully River offers an unforgettable paddling experience for adventurers of all skill levels.
From the gentle flows of the Upper Section from Koombooloomba Dam to Tully Falls Weir, perfect for beginners, to the adrenaline-pumping drops of the Top (Hydro - Tower 10) and Middle (Flip Wilson to Campground) sections, there's something for everyone here. Even the most experienced paddlers will find a challenge in the Lower (campground to the bridge) section, while the Croc Run offers a beginner-friendly, fun and exciting paddle for kayaks and rafts.
So, whether you're a seasoned pro or a whitewater newbie, strap on your life jacket, grab your paddle, and get ready to dive into the exhilarating world of Tully River whitewater paddling.
Upper Section from Koombooloomba Dam to Tully Falls Weir
- Location: North Queensland, Ravenshoe
- Grade: 2 (1st rapid is 3/3+ depending on level)
- Season: Any - Hydro Power Station Release
- Gradient: 1:200 for the first 6 km then relatively flat for the last 4 km
- Time: 3 hours
- Length: 10km
- Level: 36MW is minimum but the river is wide and can handle more water without too dramatic a change in character
- Shuttle: 15 minutes on the dirt road between put-in and take out
- Character: Drop pool-wide river with dense jungle on banks and no crocodiles
- Suits: Beginner - Intermediate kayakers
This section is perfect for beginner to intermediate kayakers looking for a gentle introduction to whitewater paddling. The river here is wide and can accommodate a good amount of water without dramatically changing its character. The first 6 km has a gradient of 1:200, making it a relatively gentle ride. The last 4 km is relatively flat, allowing for a calm and relaxing paddle. The surrounding dense jungle adds to the scenic beauty of the route.
Top (Hydro - Tower 10)
- Location: North Queensland, Tully
- Grade: 4/5
- Season: Any - Hydro Power Station Release
- Gradient: 1:20 at first then lessening
- Time: 40 minutes plus playtime
- Length: 3.4km by the road
- Level: All descriptions are for 88ml release
- Shuttle: Easy via Cardstone Rd
- Character: Moderately technical, drops to 2m
- Suits: Playboats, Riverboats and Creekers
This section is challenging, with a grade of 4/5. It's moderately technical, with drops up to 2m. This section is suitable for playboats, riverboats, and creekers. The gradient is initially 1:20, lessening as you progress. The entire section can be completed in about 40 minutes, plus additional time if you wish to play around in the water.
Middle (Flip Wilson to Campground)
- Location: North Queensland, Tully
- Grade: 4
- Season: Any - Hydro Power Station Release
- Gradient: 1:50 (Average)
- Time: 15 minutes
- Length: 1.7km by the road
- Level: All descriptions are for 88mw release
- Shuttle: Easy via Cardstone Rd
- Character: Two short heavy rapids then prolonged maneuvering
- Suits: Riverboats and Creekers
This section is also graded 4, making it suitable for more experienced paddlers. It features two short, heavy rapids followed by a prolonged maneuvering section. The average gradient is 1:50. This section is best suited for riverboats and creekers. The entire section can be completed in about 15 minutes.
Lower (campground to the bridge)
- Location: North Queensland, Tully
- Grade: 3+
- Season: Any - Hydro Power Station Release
- Gradient: 1: lots (due to 1km flat section)
- Time: 30 minutes
- Length: 3.1km via the road
- Level: All descriptions are for 88mw release
- Shuttle: Easy via Cardstone Rd
- Character: Good river running plus flatwater
- Suits: Riverboats and Creekers (playboats struggle on the flat)
This section is a bit less challenging than the previous two, with a grade of 3+. It offers good river running plus a flatwater section. Playboats may struggle on the flat section, so it's best suited for riverboats and creekers. The entire section can be completed in about 30 minutes.
Cardstone Road's Bridge to Bridge (The Crocodile Run)
- Location: North Queensland, 40km from Tully
- Grade: 2
- Season: All year - hydro release
- Gradient: 1: lots (due to 1km flat section)
- Time: 1hr
- Length: Approx. 3km
- Shuttle: A bicycle shuttle takes about 15 minutes
- Character: Drop and pool
- Suits: Kayaks and rafts
This section, also known as "The Croc Run" is a grade 2 section suitable for kayaks and rafts. It features decent rapids and pool character, making it a fun and exciting ride. The entire section can be completed in about an hour. The shuttle back to the starting point can be done by bicycle and takes about 15 minutes.
Interactive Map
Rapid Map:
Safety Tips
Whitewater paddling is an exhilarating sport, but it's also one that requires a high degree of safety awareness. Always wear a life jacket and helmet, and never paddle alone. Check weather and water conditions before setting out, always let someone know your plans before you go, and never go alone. If you're a beginner, you should go with someone experienced and who has the appropriate white water knowledge and swift water rescue skills.
Equipment
The right equipment can make all the difference in whitewater paddling. Depending on the section of the river, you might choose a kayak or raft. A sturdy paddle is a must, and you'll also need a life jacket and helmet and a throw bag comes in handy. Dress for the weather, and remember that it's always cooler on the water than on land.
Nature and the Local Flora and Fauna
The Tully River winds its way through some of North Queensland's most beautiful landscapes. As you paddle, keep an eye out for the dense jungle that lines the banks of the river. You might spot a variety of bird species, and if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a platypus! The area is littered with waterfalls and is known for being the wettest parts of Australia.
History and Culture
The Tully River has a rich history, and the area is home to the Girramay and Djiru Aboriginal people. As you paddle, take a moment to appreciate the deep cultural significance of this beautiful river.
Amenities and Services
There are a number of amenities and services available to paddlers on the Tully River. You'll find parking, toilets, picnic areas, and campsites along the river for those who want to make a day of it. In the nearby town of Tully, you'll find a range of restaurants and shops, as well as equipment rental services and commercial guides.
Local Regulations
Before setting out on the Tully River, make sure you're aware of the local regulations. These include rules about where you can paddle, as well as any permit requirements. Always respect the river and the surrounding environment by following the Leave No Trace principles.
Notes
See also:
This article, and all other articles, are for entertainment purposes only and are not to be used as a guide. Please see our Disclaimer for more information.