Kirrar Sandblow, Fraser Island – the Rainbow Gorge walk
The Rainbow Gorge Walk to the Kirrar Sandblow on K’gari/ Fraser Island in Queensland is 1.8km long and shows off the remarkable multi-coloured sands.
The Kirrar Sandblow on K’gari/ Fraser Island is one of the island’s lesser-known attractions. But the Rainbow Gorge walk is well worth undertaking.
Fraser Island is renowned for its expansive sand masses, but what makes it truly remarkable is the stunning variety within that sand. It may come as a surprise to some that amidst the seemingly endless piles of sand, there are mineral oxides and hydroxides that paint the dunes with a dazzling array of reds, oranges, whites, and yellows.
The Rainbow serpent and K’gari’s sand colours
According to the local Butchulla people, this explosion of colors can be attributed to a legendary event involving the rainbow serpent. As the story goes, the serpent was struck by a boomerang, causing it to spill all the colors of the rainbow from its wound.
Pick the best K’gari/ Fraser Island tour for you
- HIGHLIGHTS PACKAGE: One day coach tour from Hervey Bay.
- FROM THE SOUTH: One day 4WD tour from Rainbow Beach.
- PACK MORE IN: Two day tour, staying at K’gari Beach Resort.
- BEACHY: Boat cruise with west coast beach stops.
- BACKPACKERS: Three day, drive-yourself camping adventure from Hervey Bay. Or similar from Rainbow Beach.
- MORE LUXURIOUS: Three day adventure, staying at the Kingfisher Bay Resort.
Rainbow Gorge just south of Happy Valley and the Pinnacles, located to the north of Eli Creek, are two of the top spots on Fraser Island to witness this breathtaking display of colour. In particular, Rainbow Gorge is fabulous for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
What is the Rainbow Gorge?
Rainbow Gorge is narrow channel of towering sand cliffs that appear to glow in various shades of red, orange, and yellow. The unique blend of minerals present in the sandstone formations creates a visually striking experience. It leads to the Kirrar Sandblow, a desert-like dunes system.
Rainbow Gorge Walk
Visitors to Rainbow Gorge have to explore the area on foot, taking in the intricate patterns and shapes that make up the sand cliffs. The Rainbow Gorge Walk is about 1.8km return and should take most people around an hour.
Other key attractions on K’gari/ Fraser Island include Lake Wabby, Lake McKenzie, the Champagne Pools and the Maheno Shipwreck.
Book these 8 Hervey Bay experiences now
- 1. Great Sandy Strait wildlife cruise – with a great chance of spotting dingos or dugongs.
- 2. All-inclusive Fraser Island day tour – with pick-up at your accommodation.
- 3. Fraser Island two day tour – see much more.
- 4. Fun cruise – get close to dolphins and turtles while lounging in the boom netting.
- 5. Sunset cruise.
- 6. Dolphin sailing adventure.
- 7. Whale-watching – this is arguably the best place in Australia to spot humpback whales.
- 8. Fraser Island west coast cruise – with lunch & kayaking.
More Queensland travel
How long is the Mooloolaba to Noosa drive?
Where to stop on the drive from Proserpine to Cairns.
Walk to the summit of Walshs Pyramid near Cairns.
Explore the Mount Quincan Crater in the Atherton Tableland.
Visit Isabella Falls on the Gordonvale to Cairns drive?