The hot northern state of Queensland is a jumble of topographical pleasures - rainforests, dramatic tropical coastal scenery, inland sandstone gorges, and beach-fringed islands.

Lamington National Park, in the McPherson Range 100km (61 mi) south of Brisbane, and bordering New South Wales. Its eco-systems are protected by a well-maintained graded track system. The park's tall rainforests, high waterfalls, and gorges are best visited during the sunny, dry season when snakes and ticks are scarce. it takes about three days to visit all the major features on the eastern side of the park.

Fraser Island, 300km (186mi) north of Brisbane, is the world's largest sand island and a World Heritage site. it's also a walker's paradise with tall rainforests, huge sand dunes, prolific wildlife, and beautiful lakes. The most popular circuit takes about three days and can be tackled year-round although the months of January and February maybe prone to sudden cyclones.

On the mainland, spectacular Carnarvon Gorge,467km (289mi) south-west of Rockhampton, is a delight for bushwalkers with caves, Aboriginal art, and spring wildflowers. 61km (38mi) south of Cairns, Bellenden Ker National Park, contains the state's highest mountain. A charming walk to Mt Bartle Frere's summit follows a series of rough bush tracks.

Most of Queensland's renowned, tropical resort islands have intriguing areas to explore, and day walks are especially popular on Dunk, Green, and Hinchinbrook Islands. Distinguished Australian wilderness photographer Robert Rankin regards Hinchinbrook island as one of Australia's most idyllic walking areas. Rocky' headlands and sandy coves rest against a backdrop of soaring mountain peaks where giant waterfalls cascade into the sea.

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