Things to do

Hiking & Walking Trails

Walk, hike or stroll your way through the tropics

Whether you’re an expert bushwalker up for a long-haul hike or a Sunday stroller looking for something more leisurely, there’s a huge range of walks to suit every desire and ability.

The terrain in Tropical North Queensland covers an entire geographical and botanical spectrum, from coastal lowland to mountains; treks through dense rainforest in places like Mt Bartle Frere, Queensland’s highest mountain, to the cloud forests of Walsh’s Pyramid, the wet sclerophyll forest of Kahlpahlim Rock and Lambs Head and the open woodlands and savannahs of the Undara National Park.

Water is everywhere – bays, streams, waterholes and falls, some perfect for a refreshing swim. Wildlife abounds, so keep an eye out for musky rat-kangaroos, red-legged pademelons, cassowaries, lace monitors and iridescent blue Ulysses butterflies. Feathered residents include king parrots, honeyeaters, black-throated finches, magpie geese and more.

If short and instantly gratifying is more your style, take a stroll along the boardwalks at Cairns or the series of boardwalks in the Daintree National Park, walk the loop along the Mossman River, traverse the circuit around Green Island or witness the power and majesty of Barron Falls from the lookout.

If you have mobility issues or small children, there are tracks in some of Tropical North Queensland’s many national parks that are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.

Hike to the top of Walsh's Pyramid south of Cairns

Visit the Nandroya Falls in Wooroonooran National Park

Meander through the lush tropical rainforest at Mamu Tropical Skywalk

As you hike it

Where to find scenic walking trails, from a challenging trek to a relaxed stroll.

 

Zoe Falls on the Thorsborne Trail - Hinchinbrook Islan
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Incredible hikes you need to conquer near Cairns

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Guide to the Red Arrow walking trail in Cairns

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An active traveller’s guide to Cairns

Boasting nature’s ultimate keep-fit playground, nutritious local produce for those post-workout gains, and plenty of idyllic spots for some all-important recovery time, Tropical North Queensland is an active traveller’s dream. Here are our top tips to exploring the region like a top athlete:

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Adventure and discovery in Tropical North Queensland

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12 other things to do when visiting the Cardwell Spa Pool

Whether you’re out to catch a barra, hike Australia’s largest island National Park or adventure your way through a scenic 4WD track, Cardwell is the perfect launch pad for an outdoorsy weekend with a friendly local twist.

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Explore Hiking & Walking Trails

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