Wongabel State Forest

Wongabel State Forest is a nature lover's paradise located just 8 km south of Atherton on the Kennedy Highway in Queensland, Australia.

Covering an area of more than 444 hectares, the forest offers visitors a chance to explore a remnant of the endangered mabi forest. The forest is managed by HQPlantations Pty Ltd, while the walking track is managed and protected by the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service.

Visitors to Wongabel State Forest can enjoy two walking tracks that take them through the mabi forest. There is an easy 750m walk or a longer 2.5km heritage route, which features signs that provide information on the area's history, forestry practices, and local ecology. Wildlife enthusiasts will be delighted by the variety of wildlife in the forest, including Lumholtz's tree-kangaroos, possums, and over 100 species of birds. Night spotlighting is a popular activity for spotting these elusive creatures. The weather is cooler and drier during this time, making it more comfortable to explore the forest. To get to Wongabel State Forest, visitors can drive 8 km south of Atherton on the Kennedy Highway. Alternatively, they can fly into Cairns Airport, located about 90 km southwest of Atherton, and rent a car to drive to Atherton. There are also tours available that include Wongabel State Forest as part of their itinerary.