Any local will tell you that one of the best things to do in Cairns is to climb Walshs Pyramid, located about an hour’s drive from Cairns.

As the highest free standing pyramid in the world (922 metres), Walshs Pyramid evokes fear and wonder in many a hiker’s mind. Climbing this mountain is no easy feat although many people, both fit and unfit, attempt this challenging climb. There have been many evacuations over the years from people getting stuck up the top due to dehydration and sunstroke. 

What makes this climb so challenging is the whopping elevation gain of almost 900 metres. In addition, the track is very exposed to the elements so hiking Walshs Pyramid in the middle of summer is a big mistake. 

“DO NOT HIKE WALSHS PYRAMID IN SUMMER. IF YOU DO, START AT DAWN.”

The people who struggle to climb Walshs Pyramid do so because they have not prepared themselves for the climb. However, if you read this article, you will be fully prepped and ready for a successful and enjoyable climb to the top of Walshs Pyramid and back. 

My boys (5 and 7 years) have climbed Walshs Pyramid three times in the last two years, all unassisted. If they can do it, any adult can.

In this article, I will provide you with all the important details you’ll need for the climb. This includes all the statistics, best time to climb, what to expect, track conditions, how to get there, climbing directions, maps and more.

Table of Contents

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1. What to Expect

2. Highlights

3. This hike is best for

4. Best Time to Visit

5. Walshs Pyramid Race

6. Walshs Pyramid Map

7. Getting to Walshs Pyramid & Parking

8. Conditions of the Walshs Pyramid Trail

9. How Long Does it Take to Climb Walshs Pyramid?

10. Directions for Walshs Pyramid Hike

What to Expect?

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This is a 6.1 km out-and-back trail with a whopping elevation gain of almost 900 metres. Don’t let the distance fool you as it can take several hours to climb Walsh’s Pyramid due to the steep nature of the trail. Give yourself half a day (5 to 6 hours). 

This is a challenging hike not for the faint-hearted. It has a consistent gradient right up to the top. In fact, the last kilometre to the top is very steep and relentless. However, the slog up to the top is rewarded with stunning views all the way to Cairns and the northern beaches. 

“THE GRUELLING HIKE UP WALSHS PYRAMID IS FOLLOWED BY 360-DEGREE VIEWS OF CAIRNS AND BEYOND.”

On a clear, cool winter’s day, you can expect to share the magnificent 360-degree summit views with quite a few people. The radiating patterns of cane fields lapping at the edges of dark green rainforested mountains make for some great wide-angle photos, particularly if you’re able to slip a polarising filter over your lens. 

Highlights

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• Steep, challenging hike
• Spectacular 360-degree views of Cairns and surrounding areas
• Climbing the highest free standing pyramid in the world
• Beautiful sunrise and sunset views

Best Time to Visit

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While the trail is open year round, it is not recommended to climb Walsh’s Pyramid during the daytime in the summer months. The trail is mostly open and there is not much shade which can make it very hot in the afternoons particularly.

“THE COOLER MONTHS OF MAY TO OCTOBER ARE THE BEST TIMES TO CLIMB WALSHS PYRAMID.”

It is advisable to start your hike at first light (if not before) in order to finish before the heat of the day. It is best to walk Walshs Pyramid between May and October when conditions are cooler. 

As the entire walk is through open eucalypt forest, expect to pay for the almost continuous views with a bit of sweat – so carry plenty of water. 2-3 litres per person is highly recommended, especially during the hotter months. 

Walshs Pyramid Race

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While you’re huffing and puffing, consider that every year around mid-August a race is held from Gordonvale to the summit and back. The distance of 12 km (including almost 1 vertical km) has been completed in just under 1.5 hours! Only after you’ve done this walk can you appreciate what an amazing effort this is. 

“THE WALSHS PYRAMID RACE HAS BEEN COMPLETED IN UNDER 1.5 HOURS.”

Every August a group of very tough and fit men and women run from Gordonvale to the summit of Walsh’s Pyramid and back – a distance of 12 kilometres and a climb of over 900 metres. The race has been run in its official capacity since 1959 and the current men’s record is 1:15:34 set in 2007. The women’s record, set in 1997, is 1:32:06. Local legend says the race started in the 1950s as a bet between two cane farmers on who could reach the summit and return in the fastest time. See www.pyramidrace.com.au. 

Guide to the Walshs Pyramid Hike

Walshs Pyramid Map

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Getting to Walshs Pyramid & Parking

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Travel south from Cairns on the Bruce Highway, passing the crossroad with the Gillies Highway. About 800 metres past the Mulgrave River Bridge turn right onto Moss Road and travel along the gravel road for about 500 metres (the turn off from Moss Road only says ‘car park’ and gives no other details about the Walsh’s Pyramid walk). Find the car park on the left. The signposted walk commences at the western end of the car park. 

What are the Conditions of the Walshs Pyramid Trail?

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Prepare yourself for a strenuous but rewarding hike.

The trail itself is made up mostly of stairs carved into the rocks. Some sections along the route are smooth slate which can be slippery, especially after the rains. Take care and avoid climbing directly on these smooth surfaces.

There are sections which have been overgrown so expect some bush bashing.  

“THE TRAIL INVOLVES CLIMBING STAIRS CARVED INTO ROCKS, CROSSING SMOOTH SLATE ROCK AND ROCK SCRAMBLING.”

This is a very steep climb, rising 900m in just 3km. The last kilometre is the steepest section.

Consider doing part of the walk to either the first or second viewing areas, where you can enjoy excellent views. Due to fatigue, many people find the descent even more difficult than the climb. Weariness may make it difficult to choose your footing.

Please consider your fitness and allow plenty of time to return before dark. People have had to be rescued from this walk because it took longer than they expected and they have become lost in the dark.

How Long Does it Take to Climb Walshs Pyramid?

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Experienced, fit walkers complete this difficult walk in 4-5 hours. Allow an extra hour for breaks and to stop and enjoy the views.

Directions for Walshs Pyramid Hike

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The Climb (1st Half)

From the car park look out for the narrow track running uphill on the western side of the car park. Walk 50 metres and you will reach a dirt road; cross this to pick up the rocky trail on the other side. 

“THE FIRST HALF OF THE TRAIL IS LESS STEEP AND EASIER THAN THE SECOND HALF OF THE TRACK.”

This lower section of trail is not too steep and traverses more eucalypt woodland. There are three one kilometre markers along the trail. Continue walking uphill for about an hour (2 kilometres) until you reach a large area of exposed granite rock. 

This marks the halfway point in terms of time and distance and allows for good views as the area is devoid of trees.

The Climb (2nd Half)

From this point the gradient becomes much steeper and there is more rock scrambling until you reach a narrow ridge and the vegetation begins to change giving way to shrubs, grass and spindly trees. 

The track naturally veers to the left along the ridge. Continue along for several hundred metres, about 20 minutes, passing a couple of false summits until you reach a large flat rock which is a great place for a rest and to enjoy the view. The summit is another 30 metres further on.

“SEVERAL VIEW POINTS AT THE SUMMIT ALLOW FOR AMAZING VISTAS.”

The Return Trip 

The return is via the same route and the descent takes about as long as the climb (as you have to take care and watch where you place your feet). 

In Conclusion

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I’ve climbed Walshs Pyramid several times in the last two years and it never gets boring. It’s a challenging yet rewarding hike that improves your endurance and fitness considerably. And the 360-degree views are spectacular whether it’s sunny or overcast.

If you’re looking for more fun things to do in Cairns, there’s many more enjoyable hikes around Cairns as well as other exciting activities and places to visit.

I love to hear from my readers. Have you climbed Walshs Pyramid? Please let me know what you loved most about this hike. Were there any challenges you faced along the climb? Please leave your comments below.