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Little Mulgrave River at Mountain View Hotel
Little Mulgrave, Far North Queensland

After a swim in this mostly shallow, pebbled stream, which comes with its own little rope swing, head next door for a counter meal at the local pub. But make sure you do it in the right order, because swimming and alcohol do not mix.

Swimming in the Little Mulgrave River

Above: The rope swing and small riverside park on the opposite bank of Little Mulgrave River (Order this image)

This spot is fairly easy to find and is readily accessible from the main road (Gillies Range Road) that runs from Gordonvale to Atherton. From Gordonvale, just after crossing the Little Mulgrave River, turn immediately right into the cleared gravel area, just before you reach the Mountain View Hotel.

There is not much here apart from a rubbish bin and somewhere to park your car, but there is clear access to the water. This side of the river is shallower, which makes it easier to get into the water gradually. Alternatively you can also drive to the opposite bank, via Little Mulgrave Road, where there is a similar cleared area and a few rubbish bins, but you are stepping straight into deep water. Both sides have good shade for you and your car.

Swimming in the Little Mulgrave River

Above: The roadside turnoff between the bridge over the Little Mulgrave River and the Mountain View Hotel (Order this image)

What I liked about this spot was that the water was clear and reasonably fast flowing, with shallow areas to plomp yourself down and let the water flow by. The bed of pebbles was also pretty clean for wading in and out of the water.

Close to the opposite bank there was a strip of deeper water, better suited to swimming, which had its own rope swing attached to one of the overhanging trees.

Swimming in the Little Mulgrave River

Above: Little Mulgrave River downstream of Mountain View Hotel (Order this image)

After a dip, the Mountain View Hotel is only a few metres walk away, up the hill. It has counter meals, refreshing beverages, and an elevated riverside deck where you can reminisce about your swim.

Other Information Before You Go:

Location: Gillies Range Road, Little Mulgrave, 10 km (approx. 10 minute drive) south-west of Gordonvale.
Latitude:-17.139742 Longitude:145.723799
Getting there: From Cairns head south along the Bruce Hwy (A1) to Gordonvale, then head inland along the Gillies Range Road (route 52). As soon as you cross the Little Mulgrave River, before you reach the Mountain View Hotel, turn right into the roadside parking area that leads down to the water. You can also access the other side of the river via Little Mulgrave Road.

Facilities: Parking area, rubbish bins.
Entrance fee: None
Water temperature: Mild
Water clarity: Clear
Under foot: Pebbles
Maximum water depth: 1 to 2 metres
Minimum swimming proficiency required: Beginners can wade or swim near the shore. Experienced swimmers only, away from the shore, due to the currents, variable depth, and deeper water.
Prohibitions including whether you can bring your dog: No camping or overnight stays.
Sun shade: Shade available in and out of the water from plenty of large, overhanging trees.
Opening times: Always open
Wheelchair access: It is possible to drive up near the edge of the river, but the ground is uneven down to the water's edge.
Managing authority: Cairns Regional Council
Nearby attractions: Clamshell Falls, 23 km by road to the south-east via Gordonvale.

Before you head out, make sure to read the swimming safety information and check with the managing authority for any current change of conditions. Specific to this site, if you think you would like to use the rope swing, make sure you check the water depth underneath the rope swing and check for any underwater obstacles beforehand.

Locality Map:

The marker indicates the approximate location of parking area next to the river. If the map is not zoomed in locally, as can sometimes occur when loading, simply click or tap on "View Larger Map" below.
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Frequently Asked Questions:

Can my dog swim in the Little Mulgrave River at Mountain View Hotel? Yes, dogs are permitted to swim at the roadside parking area.

Are there crocodiles in the Little Mulgrave River at Mountain View Hotel? Crocodiles travel far and wide in far north Queensland. None had been reported here to my knowledge at the time of my visit, but always keep a lookout and heed any warning signs on site.

Can kids swim in the Little Mulgrave River at Mountain View Hotel? Yes, under supervision, noting the variable current and depth.

Can I have a picnic in the Little Mulgrave River at Mountain View Hotel? Yes, but you would need to bring your own picnic rug, as there were no picnic tables on the southern side of the river.

Can I fish in the Little Mulgrave River at Mountain View Hotel? Yes, fishing is permitted, but stay well away from any swimmers.

Can I get a meal at the Mountain View Hotel after my swim? Yes, the hotel has counter meals and is open every day of the week for lunch and dinner.

If you have any other questions not answered above, leave a comment for me using the comment box below.

Comments:

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