Best trails in Macalister Range National Park
Macalister Range National Park was established, as the name suggests, within the Macalister Mountain Range in the Cairns Region of Queensland. The park provides protection to an important swatch of cassowary habitat as well as a region of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. The Macalister Range rises steeply from the coast, reaching a height of 880m at the summit of Mount Charlie, and looks out over the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.
While there is limited public access to the park, great views of the range can be had on a drive along Captain Cook Highway from Port Douglas to Cairns.
Top trails
1
(433)
•Moderate
•4.6 mi
•Est. 2h 6m
This is an awesome trail located between Cairns and Port Douglas in Far North Queensland. If you're driving from Cairns headed north, you need to drive a few hundred metere's past Hartleys Creek Crocodile Farm on the highway and you will see on your left Hartleys creek retreat. Park on your left and you will see a track just against the fence line.
The trail features a decent uphill early on in the walk and from there the track has a series of ups and downs but nothing too strenuous. About...
2
(83)
•Moderate
•9.0 mi
•Est. 3h 44m
This top section of the Wangetti Trail gives you a proper 'up and over' adventure. You’ll start with a cruisy stroll along the sand at Palm Cove before tackling the headland. A series of well-made switchbacks guides you up through the lush rainforest to a lookout with cracker views. Then, it's back down the other side to finish on beautiful Ellis Beach. It's a stunning walk, but check the tides to make sure the beach access is easy.
3
(30)
•Moderate
•4.8 mi
•Est. 1h 57m
This stunning new trail offers a fantastic adventure through the coastal rainforest of Tropical North Queensland. This is the first stage of the much longer Wangetti Trail, taking you from the beautiful Palm Cove to the relaxed atmosphere of Ellis Beach. You'll wander through shady forests, with glimpses of the sparkling Coral Sea, on a well-made track that is suitable for both walkers and mountain bikers. It’s a great way to experience the magic of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area.
4
(26)
•Moderate
•4.7 mi
•Est. 2h 3m
Hartleys Creek Falls via Quaid Road is a pleasant trail that visits a stunning waterfall with a swimming hole at its base. This route follows dirt tracks and gravel roads exploring the lovely natural scenery of Macalister Range National Park.
Starting from Hartley's creek trailhead the track involves some short, steep patches. to the waterfall and swimming hole. This is a great spot to take a breather and cool off. The area is very peaceful with lots of birdlife and interesting flora at...
5
(3)
•Moderate
•9.9 mi
•Est. 4h 12m
The Twin Bridges track follows the route of the original Black Mountain Road, to the east of where the current road lies. The trail leaves from from Black Mountain Road and re-joins it a few kilometres from the Bump track.
The trail is shared by hikers and mountain bikers, however horses and trail bikes are not permitted.
Trail reviews for Macalister Range National Park
Beautifully made trail! Many dips paved with rocks and lots of lovely undulations. Peak of the mountain only gives yous glimpses of the sea but it's lovely and quiet - and you can hear the sea once you get away from the lower sections which are parallel with roads. So delighted to discover the Macalister Range is a World Heritage Area!
Wangetti Trail: Palm Cove to Ellis Beach
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Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to hike in Macalister Range National Park?
According to users from AllTrails.com, the best place to hike in Macalister Range National Park is Hartleys Creek Falls, which has a 4.6 star rating from 433 reviews. This trail is 4.6 mi long with an elevation gain of 754 ft.
What is the longest trail in Macalister Range National Park?
According to AllTrails.com, the longest trail in Macalister Range National Park is Twin Bridges Track. This trail is estimated to be 9.9 mi long.
How many trails are in Macalister Range National Park?
There are 5 trails in Macalister Range National Park. These trails have an average 4.2-star rating from 575 AllTrails community reviews.
Which trail has the most elevation gain in Macalister Range National Park?
If you're looking for elevation gain, Macalister Range National Park has you covered. Twin Bridges Track boasts the most elevation gain with 1,404 ft of total ascent. The park's runner-up is Ellis Beach via Wangetti Trail, which will get you 1,102 ft of elevation gain.
Are there camping trails available in Macalister Range National Park?
According to AllTrails.com, there is 1 camping trail in Macalister Range National Park which is Wangetti Trail: Palm Cove to Ellis Beach with an average 4.3 star rating from 30 community reviews.
Are there biking trails available in Macalister Range National Park?
According to AllTrails.com, there are 3 biking trails in Macalister Range National Park and the most popular is Ellis Beach via Wangetti Trail with an average 4.5 star rating from 83 community reviews.
Are there any trails with waterfalls in Macalister Range National Park?
Yes, there are 2 trails with waterfalls in Macalister Range National Park, including Hartleys Creek Falls, and Hartleys Creek Falls via Quaid Road.