Caution sign with an image of an emu

Mossman Gorge Safety Information

While Mossman Gorge is a beautiful place that’s exciting to explore, there are a few safety rules we ask our visitors to review and respect. To ensure your experience with us is memorable for all the right reasons, please take a moment to read through these safety tips and keep them in mind while you discover Mossman Gorge. 

Water Safety

Swimming in the Mossman River is not recommended by Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre. The Mossman River is an unpredictable and inherently dangerous waterway that can and does change drastically – and quickly. The Mossman River is also unsupervised and water conditions are not regularly monitored. Entering the Mossman River can be dangerous even when it appears calm and shallow near the shore, due to a combination of strong currents, cold deep water, and submerged objects (including rocks and floating logs). 

Water conditions can change very quickly and unexpectedly, particularly in times of high rain, and flash flooding can occur even when it is not raining in the immediate area. People have been injured and deaths have occurred at Mossman Gorge. 

Pedestrian Safety

There's no footpath or pedestrian access from the car park to the Gorge. The road leading to the Gorge is narrow and dangerous. Please use the shuttle bus service, your safety is your responsibility. 

Stinging Tree

Stinging Trees

Stinging trees are found occasionally alongside walking tracks in Mossman Gorge. They grow approximately 3–4 m high and have large, heart-shaped leaves with serrated edges. Do not touch these plants as this will almost certainly result in a very painful sting. If you are stung and symptoms are severe, seek medical advice.

Share Your Plans

If you intend to hike within the park beyond the rainforest circuit track, you must discuss your plans with park staff. Remember to tell a responsible person where you are going and when you expect to return. Let them know your route and contact them on your return. Have a contingency plan in place if you fail to contact them by the agreed time. If you change your plans, inform them.

For more information, please read the guidelines on safety in parks and forests.

The big trees of Mossman Gorge

Plan Your Trip to Mossman Gorge

Make a quick trip to Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre for a breath of fresh air – or spend a full day of adventure with us. Learn more about amenities at Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre, such as our parking and shuttle bus services, cafe and restaurant, plus more.