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There usually are not many waterways, rivers and lakes in Tropical North Queensland which can be croc-free, however the picturesque Mossman River within the World Heritage Daintree Rainforest outdoors Port Douglas is one place they’re much less more likely to roam.
The fast-flowing, freshwater, crystal clear river is surrounded by lush historic rainforest, and is the proper place to discover on a arise paddle board.
With paddle in hand, you may get pleasure from the most effective types of cross-training in nature you’ll discover.
I’ve witnessed individuals doing SUP in harbours, on the seashore driving waves, and on lakes, however by no means in an idyllic river setting just like the Mossman River.
So we needed to strive it! Right here is our expertise…
Disclaimer: I visited Tropical North Queensland as a visitor of Tourism Queensland, however all ideas, concepts and opinions on this information are my very own.
Concerning the Mossman River
The Mossman River is located within the Daintree Rainforest, one of many oldest rainforests on the earth.
It flows by lush tropical rainforests and previous towering mountains, which have been an necessary useful resource for the indigenous Kuku Yalanji individuals for hundreds of years who relied on these waters for fishing and as a supply of freshwater.
When European settlers got here to the area, it was additionally a key transportation route.
As we speak, the Mossman River is a shocking a part of the rainforest and presents individuals the possibility to see the pure wonders of the Daintree Rainforest from a singular perspective.
It’s frequent to search out excursions that go arise paddle boarding or kayaking on the river as a result of it’s present supplies a leisurely cruise.
Additional alongside the river is Mossman Gorge. The customer’s middle advises you don’t go swimming on account of its altering situations, however many individuals do – I imply, when you see these cool, crystal-clear waters, it’s laborious to not say no.
Simply watch out when swimming and don’t threat it for those who’re not assured.
Our Expertise Stand Up Paddle Boarding the Mossman River
We had been staying in Port Douglas, listed at quantity 3 on Australian Traveller journal’s checklist of 100 finest cities in Australia.
Only a brief, scenic drive quarter-hour north, takes you to Mossman, a picturesque township and gateway to the Mossman Gorge.
After I first discovered I used to be going to be doing SUP on a river in North Queensland, the very first thing that got here to my thoughts was “aren’t there crocs within the rivers up north?“
Happily, the Mossman River is contemporary water, so no massive saltwater crocs reside there, and since it’s usually quick flowing, you’re unlikely to see freshies too.
In addition to, the water is so crystal clear, it additionally eases the thoughts by not having to fret about something lurking beneath the floor.
Rise up paddle boarding at all times seemed like enjoyable and a simple type of exercising out in nature, so I used to be excited to offer it a go.
After a fast 10 minute tutorial lesson from our information, all of us received the dangle of it fairly shortly.
The board is lengthy, flat and broad making it comparatively straightforward to get your stability. You begin in your knees, and after you have your centre of gravity it’s a straightforward transition to standing up.
We headed up stream to start out, which supplied for some pure resistance and a few stronger strokes wanted, and we additionally needed to weave out and in of logs and fallen tree branches.
I’ve to agree, SUP is among the finest types of cross coaching. I might really feel it working the core, legs and higher physique all on the similar time – plus I used to be having a ton of enjoyable.
After about 45 minutes of paddling upstream, we circled and the return journey with the present flowing steadily beneath us made it extremely stress-free.
I’m instructed that platypuses name the Mossman River house. Sadly, we didn’t spot any, however I did see some chook life, spectacular bamboo timber and the native aboriginal children having fun with their pure playground swimming alongside the banks.
If you wish to see platypus within the wild, Eungella Nationwide Park in close by Mackay is the perfect place!
In case you’re on the lookout for an alternative choice to browsing and really feel like a paddle, give it a go, and it may be enjoyable for all of the household.
In addition to the Mossman River, the opposite alternate options in Port Douglas to strive SUP is on the sensational 4 Mile Seaside, together with a sundown paddle, or a SUP fishing expertise.
To get a style of stand-up paddle boarding on the Mossman River in Tropical North Queensland, try Windswell.com.au.
FAQs About The Mossman River
Is Mossman River secure to swim in?
The Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre doesn’t suggest swimming in Mossman River, nevertheless individuals nonetheless do. You possibly can swim at your individual threat, and observe that there aren’t any supervisors.
Are there crocs in Mossman River?
As a result of the water is fast-flowing, you’re unlikely to see any crocs on this space. The water can also be contemporary water, so that you received’t discover saltwater crocs in Mossman River.
What’s so particular about Mossman River?
The Mossman River is situated contained in the Daintree Rainforest, the oldest rainforest on the earth, which is why it’s so particular.
What to put on when SUP the Mossman River?
It’s really helpful to put on your swimsuit underneath gentle, energetic clothes. Put on a hat and solar safety as there are sections of the river which can be uncovered to the solar. Carry insect repellent!