Go off the beaten track in Port Douglas
Go off the beaten track in Port Douglas
If you’re reading this article, you likely understand the power of a wonderful walk in nature and the happiness it can bring! A stroll in the great outdoors should never be underestimated, especially one that’s located in magical Tropical North Queensland. It’s the ideal way to clear your mind and immerse yourself in the dream-like surroundings of FNQ. There are plenty of trails to see and intriguing paths to follow if you simply know where to go.
Let’s get exploring – here are the top 6 walks to best discover what Far North Queensland has to offer!
Bump Track
Attention all fitness fanatics! If you’re up for a bit of a challenge or just love getting your heart rate up, the Bump Track will be the perfect adventure for you. Located in the divine Mowbray River Valley, a picturesque 6km trek will take you to the turnaround point. It’s a decent hike with some steep and rocky terrains, but the lookouts and diverse flora and fauna that you encounter make it totally worth the effort! If you enjoy mountain bike riding, this is a popular place for the sport. What an achievement it would be fitting a Bump Track run into your trip!
Flagstaff Hill
This newly updated 1.5km trail is one of the most remarkable and accessible walks in Port Douglas. There are stairs and viewing platforms that overlook the never ending blues of the Coral Sea – the type of views that you can watch in awe at forever! As this is a fairly quick jaunt, it’s the perfect addition to any day in the tropics. If you’re travelling with young kids who get tired quickly, this is the most suitable option for families. Remember to bring your camera because the ocean views are to die for!
Spring Creek
Get ready for some serious rock hopping! Follow Spring Creek up to a super impressive waterfall and a heavenly swimming hole that’s surrounded by nothing but luscious green forest and abundant wildlife. There are countless swimming spots along the way which are amazing for cooling down in the typical heat of the tropics. Allow at least half a day to get there, frolick in the water and sunshine, and return. This trip is not as suitable for young kids as there is plenty of climbing over rocks and crossing rapids. How adventurous!
Mossman Gorge
If you only have time for one quest while you’re in Port Douglas – make it THIS. The Mossman Gorge is known to be one of the most heavenly spots in the tropics, and once you lay eyes on the lush rainforest and it’s beautiful surrounding gorges you’ll understand why. There are a few different walks you can embark on, with a tour guide or on your own. The guided tours are an incredible way to learn about the area’s Indigenous culture, including the fascinating history of the Dreamtime.
Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation
Welcome to paradise – where two superb World Heritage Areas, the Wet Tropics and the Great Barrier Reef, meet. Truly, this ancient environment is one that you don’t want to miss – especially when it’s only just over an hour north from Port! The coastal drive from Pool Resort to the Daintree ferry is incredibly pretty. Some popular walks in the area include the venture from Myall Beach to Masons Shop (2 hours return) and the gorgeous Tranquility Falls waterfall walk (20 minute return). The keen hikers can give Thornton’s Peak a shot! Want to try something different? Why not book a horseriding tour along the beach for a true Aussie experience!
Four Mile Beach
Okay, so this trek may not exactly be ‘off the beaten track’, but we couldn’t help but include Four Mile Beach in Port’s top walks! Distance – you guessed it, four miles. This equates to about 6.5km of stunning coastline that’s littered with one palm tree after the next. If you’ve got a free day, a stroll into town along 4-mile for some breakfast and shopping on Macrossan Street will treat you well. And the best part – no shoes required. Barefoot beach wanders in the sunshine simply cannot be topped.