Walking Trails & Hikes

Love getting active and exploring the great outdoors? With hundreds of kilometres of walking tracks, from the bush to the beaches and everything in between, there’s much to discover in the Mackay Isaac Region.

Bluewater Trail

There’s no better way to explore Mackay than walking the Bluewater Trail. Incorporating picturesque sites including the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens, Cathy Freeman Walk, Bluewater Lagoon, and Sandfly Creek Reserve - this is the perfect introduction to the city sights. It's also bike friendly if two wheels is more your style. 
Walk a section in an hour or spend a day on the 20km loop - the choice is up to you!

Rating: Very easy
Discover: Between October and April, Sandfly Creek Reserve hosts around 20,000 migratory shorebirds.

Kommo Toera Trail

This magnificent walking track allows you to meander under the shade of towering Melaleuca trees, to observe a distinctly unique wetland ecosystem diverse in wildlife and plant habitats. Located 15 minutes north of the CBD on Keelys Road, the Kommo Toera Trail is an easy 1km walk suitable for most families. Just be sure to pack insect repellent and watch out for snakes.

Rating: Very easy
Discover: Storm debris embedded amongst the treetops, as a result of past cyclones.

Cape Hillsborough

Four stunning bushwalks are available at Cape Hillsborough, sure to suit any family. Diversity Boardwalk (1.2km) and the Beachcomber Cove Track (2.2km) showcase spectacular plants and wildlife. Yuibera Plant Trail (1.2km) provides a glimpse into the Yuibera peoples traditional use of plants. Andrews Point Track (5.2km) rewards with breath-taking views.

Rating: Very easy to hard
Discover: On low tide, walk over to Wedge Island and check out the stunning rock pools.

Finch Hatton Gorge

A wonderful landscape of waterfalls, lush flora and volcanic boulder formations make Finch Hatton Gorge a must-see attraction. Many walking tracks weave through the sub-tropical rainforest. Most popular is the journey to Araluen Falls (2.8km) and Wheel of Fire Cascades (4.2km); beautiful waterfalls with large rock pools that are ideal for swimming.

Rating: Moderate to hard
Discover: Unusual flora and fauna, such as the rare Eungella honeyeater.

Peak Range National Park

Head west and explore a remote landscape of vast plains accentuated by the imposing silhouettes of ancient volcanic peaks. Must-do's for experienced hikers, Lord’s Table Mountain is a remarkable flat-topped plateau, surrounded by open eucalypt woodlands. 

Peak Range National Park is in a remote area with limited mobile reception and services. Plan your hike accordingly with sufficient water, supplies and first aid equipment. Hiking alone is not recommended; tell someone where you are going and your expected time of return. 

Rating: Moderate to hard
Discover: Surrounded by flat landscapes, these peaks offer incredible panoramic views.