Well-known for its subterranean attractions and wild rodeos, Mount Isa has lots to offer visitors after a taste of the Outback.
One of the world’s largest single producer of metals like copper, zinc, silver and lead, Mount Isa is also geographically the second biggest city in Australia at over 43,000km in size. If you’re stuck on where to visit in such a big city, we’ve pulled together a couple of spots loved by both locals and visitors alike. Learn more about the hidden treasures of Mount Isa and explore on a trip to this wonderful city with tons of history.
Lawn Hill Gorge: A hidden oasis
Visit Lawn Hill Gorge in Boodjamulla National Park; a secret paradise with clear waters, sandstone cliffs and a serenity you won’t find anywhere but the dusty red outback. Boodjamulla means Rainbow Serpent Country in the language of the Waanyi people, and the stunning park is considered sacred to them.
Activities like canoeing, swimming, birdwatching, and hiking at the Indarri Falls or Duwadarri Lookout trails will keep you active all day. Or, if camping is more your thing, there are tent and van sites at Lawn Hill Gorge serviced by toilets, showers
and a park office. Alternatively, head down to Adel’s Grove for another beautiful spot to pitch a tent.
Day trips for the adventurous
Mount Isa is the perfect destination for going deeper into the outback and connecting with this beautiful land. The Granites used to be a working mine until the 1960s, but now these slabs of rock just 15km south of town make a wonderfully secluded hike.
You can take incredible photos of the sunset after wandering the trail to the top of the hill. If you’re seeking the feeling of remoteness and freedom, or just want to escape typical tourist attractions, this less-known spot is for you. The Granites entry is unsigned, so it’s easy to miss. Look for the red gate on the right hand side as you drive out of Mount Isa on the way to Boulia. Make sure to bring plenty of water and a camera.
Step back in time and explore the ghost town of Mary Kathleen. Once home to hundreds of workers and families, Mary Kathleen was built around Australia’s largest known uranium mine. The town featured a school, Olympic- sized pool, open-air cinema, golf course, and more.
Today, it stands as a haunting outback ghost town. Though the buildings are gone, visitors can still see the old fountain, pool outline, and concrete slabs
where homes once stood. Take a walk through the remnants and uncover the history buried in this forgotten town.
Along the Leichhardt River
Explore the natural beauty of the Leichhardt River, which flows through Mount Isa. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk, a spot to cool down with a swim, or simply a place to enjoy the stunning greenery, the river has something for you. Who knows, you might even spot wildlife like wallabies or waterbirds.
The river offers a more tranquil perspective of the town. With a track for mountain bikes around the river and plenty of opportunities for bird spotting, it’s easy to lose a whole day on the banks.
Family fun in the Outback
If you’re looking for free activities more suited towards younger children, there are plenty of options. Check out Mount Isa Family Fun Park, an energetic outdoor space designed for
children of all ages. With free entry and plenty of shaded areas, it’s a must-visit for young families.
The park features a water play area with over 20 interactive installations and other amenities like BBQ grills, bike paths, a skate park, outdoor gym equipment, picnic tables, and a playground.
Telstra Hill is a 3km round trip walking trail that rewards hikers with stunning panoramic views of Mount Isa at its summit. To avoid the heat, a great time to see the trail is late in the day, to catch the sunset and enjoy a picnic.
Art abounds in Mount Isa
Local landmarks like the Mount Isa Street Art project or quirky roadside sculptures bring another layer of charm to Mount Isa.
Stop in at the Mount Isa Regional Gallery for a stunning showcase of art from local and regional talent. Admission is always free, so you can wander the rooms of sculptures, paintings and photographs at any time. The gallery also celebrates incredible Indigenous work.
For a museum experience like no other, check out the Underground Hospital and Museum. In 1942, as WWII inched closer to Australian shores, Mount Isa’s authorities were concerned that the hospital might be a target for air raids. So off-duty miners and other locals built a new hospital beneath the ground. Today, visitors can tour this unique space and discover exhibits featuring medical equipment and furnishings from the original build.
On your way to the hospital, make sure to stop by Tent House, first established in 1930 to accommodate a growing worker population. What was initially a collection of tents made using canvas to form the walls and roof around a timber frame, quickly became more permanent structures that can still be seen today.
From awe-inspiring landscapes to ghost towns to hidden swimming holes, Mount Isa is full of surprises for those willing to look beyond the surface. Whether you’re chasing adventure, history, or just an escape to Outback life, this beautiful city delivers it all.
If you enjoyed this story on Mount Isa, check out our feature on the people in Queensland’s Mount Isa Rodeo.