Bloomfield Track
The four-wheel-drive Bloomfield Road (a.k.a. the Bloomfield Track or Coast Road) from Cape Tribulation to Cooktown is rated as one of Australia’s most scenic and challenging drives.
The largely unsealed alternative to the inland Mulligan Highway travels through world-heritage-listed rainforest, past waterfalls, over unimproved creek crossings, and steep, rainforest-clad ranges.
Wet season rainfall frequently closes the track, and in the dry season, heavy rain causes sudden flooding. Fallen trees and newly-developed potholes mean that four-wheel-drive enthusiasts are advised to check conditions before attempting the route.
Fines apply for disobeying ‘ROAD CLOSED’ signs, while heavy vehicles can be liable for damage caused to the roadway.
After Cyclone Yasi destroyed the causeway crossing the Bloomfield River in 2011, a passenger-only ferry service and a four-wheel-drive-only temporary crossing preceded the Bobby & Jacky Ball all-weather bridge completed in late 2014 which gives access to the Aboriginal community of Wujal Wujal.
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