Best trails in Cape Hillsborough National Park
Cape Hillsborough National Park is located on the central coast of Queensland, in the Mackay Region. Its coastal landscape consists of rugged rock formations and cliffs, rainforests, eucalypt forests, white sand beaches, and crystal clear marine waters. It is thus a great place to hike, swim, snorkel, and spend some time at the beach.
Top trails
- 4.7 (384)·Moderate·2.1 mi·Est. 1–1.5 hrThis is a beautiful and diverse easy walk through the forest and overlooking the ocean from the headlands of Cape Hillsborough. If timed correctly, you can walk back along the beach at low tide, otherwise, the trail can be double backed once you reach the water. Wonderful views of Wedge Island are present the whole way, and at low tide, you can also traverse the narrow sandbar to visit Wedge Island. Don't get caught across the water at a change of tides, be sure to double-check the tide...
- 4.4 (97)·Moderate·1.5 mi·Est. 0.5–1 hrGlistening ocean glimpses and ancient hoop pines await on this tropical escape through Cape Hillsborough National Park. Starting at the northern end of the main beach, the track climbs steadily through a diverse landscape of ferns, vines, and volcanic rock. You’ll wander along a well-formed bitumen path that eventually transitions into gravel as you descend toward the secluded Beachcomber Cove. A ridge-top lookout provides a cracking vantage point to survey the coastline and mangroves before...
- 4.6 (66)·Moderate·4 mi·Est. 2–2.5 hrStarting from the carpark off Risley Parade, there's a wonderful walking trail around Cape Hillsborough. Begin by following the Andrews Point Track, which offers a bit of elevation for stunning views of the surrounding area. After that, head back to the beach and join onto the Beachcomber Cove Track. The track is fairly easy to follow, but there are a few sections with unclear signposts. Remember to bring your water bottle, as there are no facilities along the way. This one is best done at...
- 3.9 (118)·Moderate·5.9 miThis walk has beautiful coastal scenery starting at Cape Hillsborough car park. Explore Smalley's Beach and the gorgeous bushland of Cape Hillsborough National Park. Initially, the walk is on a formed track before it descends to the beach. Then, it turns left and follows a rough track uphill. Take a detour to view Cathedral Cave, then return to the main track and walk to the lookout, which is ideal for taking a break. Continue on the rough track and make another detour to a second cave,...
- 4.3 (85)·Moderate·2.4 miDeep in the heart of Cape Hillsborough National Park, this out-and-back trail offers a rugged and rewarding bushwalking experience. Starting from the day-use area near Casuarina Beach, the track wastes no time heading upward, leading you through dense forest to a summit that boasts breathtaking 360-degree views of the coastline and Whitsunday Islands. The terrain is significantly rocky and involves some steep scrambling. While the path is generally well-marked, some markers have faded, so...
- 4.8 (21)·Moderate·0.9 mi·Est. 0.5–1 hrThis is a lovely short hike to stretch your legs when staying at Cape Hillsborough Nature Tourist Park. Beginning from the parking area, you'll head alongside Casuarina Beach and up a small hill to Twin Beach Lookout. If you're looking to add some distance to your journey, you can continue on to Andrews Point Lookout.
- 4.5 (83)·Moderate·1.2 mi·Est. 0.5–1 hrSpectacular 360-degree vistas of the Mackay coastline define this rewarding ascent within Cape Hillsborough National Park. Starting from the sandy shores of Haliday Bay, the track gently climbs through coastal bushland toward McBrides Point. Once you reach the summit, the panorama opens up to reveal the turquoise waters of Ball Bay, the distant peaks of the national park, and a scattering of northern islands. It is a prime location for catching a brilliant sunrise or spotting whales playing...
- 4.2 (42)·Easy·0.7 mi·Est. 0.5–1 hrA well-signed trail in Cape Hillsborough National Park on the coast of north Queensland, not too far from Mackay. The trail itself is partially boardwalk and the remainder is gravel path. Enjoy walking through the cool shaded melaleucas, tall eucalypts and vine thickets of coastal mangrove with opportunities to learn about how these thriving plant communities have been shaped over time and their importance to the Yuibera people.
- 4.4 (36)·Easy·1.1 mi·Est. 0.5–1 hrA short easy hike in Cap Hillsborough National Park, not too far from Mackay on the east coast of Queensland. There are signs along the trail which highlight the wealth of plants that the Yuibera Aboriginal people used for food and medicine, and describe traditional life in this rich coastal country. Keep an eye out for the remains of an Aboriginal fish trap, and for good views across Sandy Bay.
- 3.6 (28)·Hard·3.1 miThere is spectacular scenery along this coastal stretch the national park. Start the walk from Cape Hillsborough National Park car park and walk north along the beach for 1.0 km and ascend the headland, then climb over the peak and descend to the beach on the other side. Walk along the beach to the creek, up the creek, turning right and then a further 200m to the falls. Retrace to the beach and walk around the headland and along the beach to the start, being sure to mind coastal tidal change...
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Attractions
- Beach trails in Cape Hillsborough National Park
- Forest trails in Cape Hillsborough National Park
- Moderate trails in Cape Hillsborough National Park
- Short trails in Cape Hillsborough National Park
- Trails with no dogs in Cape Hillsborough National Park
- Trails with views in Cape Hillsborough National Park
- Wildlife trails in Cape Hillsborough National Park