Mount Surprise is a friendly outback town where travellers can soak in natural hot springs, tour ancient lava tube caverns and fossick rare gemstones. Set high in Far North Queensland, the settlement is a great base for exploring the Sunshine State.
Things to do in Mount Surprise
Mount Surprise is one of the top fossicking destinations in Australia, with the chance to uncover topaz, quartz, garnets and other precious stones. Visit the Gem Den to learn about the rich history of fossicking in Mount Surprise. You can also rent equipment and hunt for your own gemstones at nearby O'Brien's Creek.
One of Australia’s signature railways, the Savannahlander is a classic silver-bullet locomotive built in the 1960s. The two-hour journey from Mount Surprise to Einasleigh showcases the rugged outback scenery of Far North Queensland. Enjoy lunch at the historic Einasleigh Hotel before heading down to Copperfield Gorge for a refreshing dip.
Mount Surprise is a great base for exploring Undara Volcanic National Park, home to one of the longest lava tube cave systems in the world. Wooden boardwalks take you deep into the cathedral-like caverns, which were formed around 190,000 years ago. Cobbold Gorge is another natural wonder, with the option to explore the ancient landscape by boat or stand-up paddleboard.
After a day of sightseeing head to Talaroo Station Hot Springs for an invigorating soak. Set on a working cattle station, the terraced hot springs bubble up into the Einasleigh River. Some of the scorching hot water is channelled into a picturesque bush pool that’s perfect for soaking your muscles.
Getting around Mount Surprise
Mount Surprise is compact and easy to get around on foot while rental cars are the best way to explore the surrounding sights and attractions. The Savannahlander Railway links Mount Surprise with other towns in Far North Queensland. Cairns Airport is a 5.5-hour drive northeast.