Alligator Creek

In the Mount Elliot section of Bowling Green Bay National Park, about 25 kilometres south of Townsville off the Bruce Highway, Alligator Creek descends from the ranges in a series of cascades, deep pools and waterfalls. A wheelchair-accessible boardwalk follows the creek line through riparian forest from a spacious day-use area with sheltered picnic tables, free electric barbecues and flush toilets, ending at the bank where swimmers take to the water. Wallabies feed on the open grass, jungle perch cruise the pools and the forest carries the calls of kookaburras, flycatchers and honeyeaters.

During and after rain the creek can rise fast and become dangerous — stay out of the water. Turn off the Bruce Highway onto Alligator Creek Road and travel 6km to the day-use area; there is no public transport.