Background Information
Welcome to Hell...Hell's Gate that is! Hell's Gate is a spectacular narrow V shaped rock gorge on a headland in Noosa National Park. It is located near the Coastal Track, which is the most traversed trail in Queensland.
At Hell's Gate the earth opens up to a large 40m V shaped cliff drop where the ocean and earth battle. Hell's Gate's high bluff provides spectacular views of the coastline north to Double Island Point and south over Alexandria Bay. It is also a great place to see some of the local wildlife including whales and other sea creatures, white-bellied sea eagles, ospreys and pied cormorants.
The spectacular narrow bay of Hell's Gate has been formed from erosion along joints in the slightly metamorphosed sandstone. This metasandstone or quartzite rock was formed when the existing sandstone was subject to increased temperature or pressure. Over time, the constant pounding of waves has opened the rock joints resulting in erosion and the formation of this gorge or inlet.
These cliffs are steep, unfenced, and may be subject to high winds, so take care at all times.
Access
Walk along the Coastal Track which starts at either the eastern end of Main Beach at Noosa, or the northern end of Sunshine Beach. The walk is just under 3km one way. Either way is scenic, with the northern headland from Main Beach being more popular.
Your Task
Read the information above, visit Hell's Gate and answer the questions below.
Send me your answers via a message and wait for a reply prior to logging your visit.
1 What has caused the sandstone to become metamorphosed?
2 What process has caused this gorge?
3 What colour are the rocks in the gorge?
4 Stand at the northern side of the gorge (GZ) near the sign and look at the tilted rock layers on the other side and at the end. Are the layers tilted up left to down right or up right to down left?
5 Look at the sign where you are beside the gorge. How many million years ago was this area a river plain?
6 Behind you looking north, you'll see another sign 'Spot the Locals'. According to the sign, what animal might you see here?
* When you log your find here, upload a photo of yourself visiting Hell's Gate.
Please don't include any answers in your log.
I hope you enjoy your vist to Hell's Gates!
First To Find - Noenus
