Mount Bartle Frere

Mount Bartle Frere is Queensland's highest mountain at 1,622 metres, located in Wooroonooran National Park within the Bellenden Ker Range south of Cairns. Part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, it is renowned for its challenging summit trails through dense tropical rainforest. The peak offers expansive views over the coastal lowlands and Atherton Tablelands and supports diverse flora and fauna, attracting experienced bushwalkers seeking a demanding wilderness hike.

Visitors can expect a very strenuous wilderness hike through dense tropical rainforest in Wooroonooran National Park to Queensland's highest summit. The trail is steep, often muddy and slippery with exposed roots, rocks and scrambling sections. There are two main routes: the shorter but steeper Eastern Trail from Josephine Falls and the longer Western Trail from Topaz. The summit is often cloud-covered but can offer extensive views to the coast and Atherton Tablelands. There are no shops or developed facilities beyond trailhead parking and signage.

Named in 1873 by explorer George Elphinstone Dalrymple after Sir Henry Bartle Frere, President of the Royal Geographical Society. The first recorded European ascent was made in 1886 by Christie Palmerston. The area is within Wooroonooran National Park, established to protect the Wet Tropics rainforest.

Located on the traditional lands of the Ngadjon-jii people, for whom the rainforest and mountain landscapes hold cultural significance. The mountain and surrounding Wooroonooran National Park form part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area recognised for its natural and cultural values.