Cape York

This Trek Note provides the most challenging route to Cape York via the Old Telegraph Track, or OTT as its known. There are other easier ways to get to the tip of Cape York, however this route will allow those who have exceptionally sound 4WD skills to experience the journey in its most natural form.

The alternative route to the one shown in this trek note is to use the Bypass Roads. We provide a separate trek note for those that wish to use this easier route. The trek note is called Cape York via Bypass Roads. You can still access sections of the Telegraph Track if you refer to the map for entry/exit points.

There are many other interesting places to visit on the Cape York Peninsula that we've not included in either of these main thoroughfare routes to the top. Instead, you'll find details about these in separate Trek Notes because they can all be accessed off the two main routes at noted exit points. We suggest you should research all these side trips and build your own itinerary. Use the links provided in the section titled "Nearby Treks".

Once you've reached Seisia, you still have a little way to go to reach the true "tip" of Cape York. Australia's most northerly point. Refer to our Cape York - Seisia to the Tip Trek Note for details on how to get there, and other things to explore in the area.

Environment

Cape York is the name of the most northern point of the Australian continent and is often referred to as "The Tip". In fact, the whole peninsula of land that lies above the 16°S latitude is called Cape York Peninsula - this narrow peninsula is bound by the Coral sea to the east the Arafura sea and Gulf of Carpentaria to the west and the Torres Strait to the north. Locals however, refer to Cape York "proper" as the area north of the Jardine river.

TrekID: 7

A trip to Cape York must be carefully planned. You need to plan for the worst and be prepared to handle repairs and maintenance in the bush. Your vehicle will need to be extensively prepared for remote area travel and you will need to ensure you have made essential modifications and carry specific safety equipment & communications.

Most people travel in convoy throughout the Cape not just for company, but for safety and backup. Just remember that overly large convoy groups can be hazardous on narrow dual-direction tracks and due to the bulldust on many Cape Roads, large groups may need to spread out so far apart that the leader lose radio communications with the tail-end charlie. For these reasons, you'll find a smaller convoy more enjoyable and practical.

Permits

Permits are required to access all areas of Aboriginal land. The permit is provided when you pay your ferry fee to cross the Jardine River at near Bamaga.

Camping permits are required in all National Parks and Reserves on the Cape York Peninsula and these must now be purchased in advance before arriving at your campsite. Self-registration for camp sites is no longer possible. To obtain an e-permit book online at www.qld.gov.au/camping, or phone 13 74 68.

Fuel Usage

Diesel	ULP	LPG
4cyl 106 litres *	4cyl 137 litres	4cyl 169 litres
6cyl 121 litres *	6cyl 127 litres *	6cyl 149 litres
8cyl 130 litres	8cyl 140 litres

Best Time To Visit

Where to Stay

Services & Supplies

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