GC666G5 Running Creek Falls (Earthcache) in Queensland, Australia created by Herbz

GC666G5 ▼

A cache by Herbz Message this owner

Hidden : 11/1/2015

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Size: Size: other (other)

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Geocache Description:

A very impressive waterfall in Lamington National Park, Running Creek Falls, along with it's sister Larapinta Falls in the next valley, provide fine examples of the Park's volcanic history.

Waterfalls commonly form where water rushes down hillsides and erodes the underlying rocks. The height and characteristics of a waterfall depends upon the type of underlying rocks that are being eroded by the water. Some types of rocks wear away more easily than others.

Here in Lamington National Park, the creation of the Tweed Shield Volcano some 23 million years ago resulted in a massive dome some 100km in diameter constructed of layer upon layer of volcanic ash, molten lava which cooled to form basalt, rhyolite and granite. Over millions of years the vast majority of the softer materials have been eroded away but layers of the more resistant rhyolite and basalt have remained and now form the capstone of this and many other falls throughout the park.

Over time the creek has eroded away the weaker rock layers to travel across the surface of stronger rock. This more resistant rock layer has become the capstone to the falls. Running Creek Falls is an excellent example of "undercutting" where the underlying softer layers of volcanic rock at the base of the falls have been scoured out by the action of water over time to create an undercut or cave.

How waterfalls are formed:-

To claim and log this Earthcache you need to get to the base of Running Creek Falls and answer the following questions:

1) Estimate the height of the falls.
2) Examine the caves at the bottom of the fall. How do you think these caves have formed?
3) Estimate the diameter of the opening of the largest cave.

You can log straight away but please send your answers as a private message to the CO as soon as you can.
Photos are encouraged but optional.

Getting to Running Creek Falls:

WARNING: Do not attempt this cache during, or several days after wet weather. This is a SERIOUS bushwalk of approx. 18km return involving steep, off-track terrain, bush-bashing, and rock hopping which can be very treacherous when the rocks are wet. A high level of fitness is a must and suitable enclosed footwear with good grip is essential. Take plenty of food (water is not a problem) and always tell someone where you are going. Mobile cover is poor but available in limited sections of the track. Allow at least 8-9 hours return at a steady pace.

This route avoids the private land access from the head of Mt. Gipps Rd.

Start at the end of Gap Creek Rd opposite Stinson Memorial Park on Christmas Creek Road. Head up to the steep saddle approach to Neglected Mountain across the NP easement through private land. At the saddle turn left towards the start of the Stretcher track and after approx. 400m locate the spur heading down the other side to Running Creek Falls. The track is taped in it's lower sections, but keep on top of the spur and you can't go wrong.

Cross over Running Creek which can be tricky in this area as it crosses a wide section of lush vegetation with moss-covered boulders. Scramble up the far bank for approx. 50m and join the well defined track heading up to the falls. Continue past the NP sign, traversing over several small gullies to the 2nd creek crossing. This one is a lot easier and the track continues on the northern bank, sometimes climbing quite high above the creek to avoid some vertical bank sections and cascades.

Eventually you come to a small clearing (campsite) at the junction of Running Creek and England Creek. From here it's a 700m rock-hop up to the falls. As an alternative return route, you may be able to locate the faint, steep track that leads straight up from near England Creek campsite/clearing to the Stretcher Track and return along the ridge to Neglected saddle making a loop. We did not spot this track when we were there, but apparently it has been re-opened and taped recently (Oct 2015) by a bushwalking club.

We hope you enjoy this awesome spot.

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Running Creek Falls EarthCache

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