3 Best Hiking Trails in Cairns

“Barron Gorge National Park is a protected area and a riverside park with dense tropical rainforests, trails leading to a waterfall, and gorge views. It is part of the traditional lands of the Djabugandji Aboriginal people, who have a close spiritual connection with the land. Floodwaters create a stunning view of Barron Falls during the rainy season, which is the best experience from Barron Falls, near Kuranda. Noisy pittas and orange-footed scrubfowl are two species that can be seen here. Barron Gorge National Park features rugged mountain scenery, tropical rainforests, diverse wildlife, and a fascinating history. The park's historic walking trails now form part of an extensive network of tracks. Explore the upper areas of this park to enjoy the stunning Barron Falls and walk along an elevated pathway through the rainforest. Picnic tables and toilet facilities are available at Barron Gorge National Park.”

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“Mount Whitfield Conservation Park is a tranquil park offering walking tracks with scenic viewpoints. It is a forested area surrounded by urban development. It also has patches of eucalyptus forests and cycad grasslands. Mount Whitfield Conservation Park offers many opportunities for nature-based recreation and educational activities. The Blue Arrow track is a popular hike. The Red Arrow is paved and has defined steps, which are good if you plan to jog. Two interconnected circuit tracks guide energetic visitors up the forested slopes to lookouts. These lookouts offer views of Cairns city and suburbs, Trinity Bay, the lush coastal mangrove forests along the Barron River, the airport, and the northern beaches. Mount Whitfield Conservation Park is managed jointly by Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service and Cairns Regional Council for nature conservation and nature-based recreation.”

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“Earl Hill Summit Track is a 2.9-kilometre moderately trafficked out-and-back trail in Trinity Beach, QLD. It is a hidden gem with a challenging walk, great views over Yorkey's Knob and Palm Cove, and Cape Tribulation. The track features a great forest setting and is suitable for all skill levels. It is used for hiking, walking, and nature trips. The track has multiple viewing points at the top. Earl Hill Summit Track is a great place to take a short hike with your dog. Other tracks lead off the main trail to the Trinity Beach rocky point and Half Moon Bay beach. Earl Hill Summit Track is accessible year-round. This walk is dog-friendly, and a leash is mandatory. Please keep your dog on a leash. You can park near the base in the carpark and go up and down, or do the loop and return to the carpark.”

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