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Part of our trip across the tablelands involved us stopping to see the Curtain Fig National Park. This national park is a forest filled with Strangler Fig Trees. The largest of which is nicknamed the Curtain Fig Tree due to its abnormal growth. You will find strangler fig trees a common sight across Queensland rainforest, with acres of them towering above the road, making us feel very small in our van.
As was common practice by now, we pulled over into a layby at the side of the road. We had only been on the road for a short amount of time after leaving Yungaburra. Our trusted guide Noddy shouted our directions and our time limit. It had been another long drive so I welcomed the opportunity to stretch my legs. I could see that the path was signposted. with a plaque introducing the Curtain Fig Tree. Next to a path that led into the forest gloom.
Exploring the forest path
I followed the path to be greeted by the sight of the enormous Curtain Fig tree. The Curtain Fig tree is a strangler fig tree that has earned its name from the several aerial roots that drop 15 metres down forming ‘curtains’ on the forest floor. The Curtain Fig tree is the largest strangler fig in the area. And even in the crowded forest, it manages to dominate with its presence.
How do I visit the Curtain Fig tree?
The easiest way to visit the Curtain Fig Tree is to book a tour online here. Despite not being a waterfall, some of the waterfall tours do stop here. I have used this company on all my trips because they offer unique experiences and make exploring a new destination a breeze.
There is an elevated boardwalk that encircles the tree, allowing for uninterrupted views from every angle. We had made it about halfway along the walk when Noddy popped out of nowhere to talk to us about the Curtain Fig. It is thought to be nearly 50 metres tall, and its trunk circumference is around 39 metres. The current estimation is that this particular tree is over 500 years old.
There is an elevated boardwalk that encircles the tree, allowing for uninterrupted views from every angle. We had made it about halfway along the walk when Noddy popped out of nowhere to talk to us about the Curtain Fig. It is thought to be nearly 50 metres tall, and its trunk circumference is around 39 metres. The current estimation is that this particular tree is over 500 years old.
Strangler Fig Trees
It began life when as a seed that landed high up in the canopy, this strangler fig grew roots that over time descended to reach the forest floor. The roots gradually became thicker and interwoven, they inevitably strangled the host tree, the process taking hundreds of years. During this process, the host tree fell into a neighbouring tree, and the roots rotted away, leaving the ‘curtains’ freestanding and creating this unique appearance.
As quick as she came, Noddy was gone. Content that she had dispensed her wisdom, and with a reminder of our time left she departed for the coach to prepare for our next departure. We slowly completed our walk along the boardwalk, taking in the last of the tree.
Besides the Curtain Fig Tree, there isn’t really anything else to see here. It’s still an incredible sight and absolutely you should stop to see it if you can, but Noddy was right to only give us 15 minutes. This is a great spot to stretch your legs while getting close to nature as the 180-metre boardwalk is the perfect length to do so while taking in some fresh air.
Frequently Asked Questions
The nearest town would be Yungaburra, with the tree just a short drive outside. If you are driving from Cairns then it’s about an hour’s journey.
The easiest way to visit the Curtain Fig Tree is to book a tour online here. Despite not being a waterfall, some of the waterfall tours do stop here. I have used this company on all my trips because they offer unique experiences and make exploring a new destination a breeze.
It’s completely free, the only cost would be time and petrol.
The tree is open 24 hours a day, so you can visit during the day to see it in all its glory, or visit at night to see Tree Kangaroos and other nocturnal animals hopping between branches.
You can find over 130 bird species listed as residents here, as well as a variety of rare animals that call this forest its home. At night you can see Lumholtz’s tree-kangaroos and other nocturnal creatures. You can find out more the the Atherton Tablelands Official Website.
Although the boardwalk surrounding does not meet the Australian standard for disability access. But I found the walk had no stairs and can be navigated farily easily. But I would recommended to do so with an assistant or carer if you have difficulties.
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