Places and Drives - The Central Coast - Bartle Frere and Bellenden Ker

Towering above the fertile coastal plain 70km (43.5 miles) south of Cairns are the highest mountains in Queensland, Mt Bartle Frere (1622 metres/5,320 feet) and its neighbour Bellenden Ker (1593 metres/5,225 feet). These mist-shrouded green giants are an important water source for nearby townships and keep the Cassowary Coast looking lush and green. More than 8 metres (26 feet) of rain fall on the summit of Bellenden Ker each year and it has recorded 1140mm (3.74 feet) of rain in 24 hours - one of the highest rainfall intensities in the world. There is a 10-12 hour walk to the Bartle Frere summit for experienced hikers.

How to get there
There are excellent views of these green giants from the Bruce Highway between Gordonvale and Innisfail, and from the hilltop at Eubenangee Swamp. There is no access to Bellenden Ker, but steep walks to the Bartle Frere summit start from Josephine Falls and the Atherton Tablelands. Phone (07) 4067-6304 for more information.