Amazing walking route with beautiful views and a good level of activity without using the whole day. Would recommend!
Getting to the route: There are two start points. One is the Scenic Trail Entrance and one is the Resort Trail Entrance. Both entrances are accessible from the shuttle bus stop "Whitsunday Apartments" by either green or blue shuttle (both free). The green is a shorter loop with fewer stops and so would get you there quicker. There is also a Green stop next to the ice-cream parlour across the road from when you get off the ferry. Alternatively you can walk from the ferry terminal which is about 15minute walk down a straight road.
If you got the bus - Once at Whitsunday Apartments you can follow the road back down from the stop then turn right up a hill (signposted) to reach the Resort Trail Entrance. Otherwise continue down the hill on the left. At the bottom of this small hill is a signpost showing the direction of the two start points. You can follow this arrow, heading parallel, to the ocean until you reach the Scenic Trail Entrance. If you didn't get the bus then just continue all the way down the road to its natural end. There is a water fountain at the start of the Scenic Trail Entrance.
The route: The route is well maintained and well signposted. It was shaded a lot of the way up and wasn't too hot on a 25°C day. There were a couple of steep bits and certainly worth going in closed toed shoes, despite the surefootedness. There were small patches of mud, suggesting it probably gets a little muddier / more treacherous if there had been heavy or recent rains. There were steps for a lot of the way from Saddle Junction. It advises an hour on the way up but with moderate fitness, not rushing, and a couple of photo-ops, it took probably around 45-50mins from the STE (approx 30-40mins to come back down). There are multiple picnic bench stops (including one at the very top) which weren't in use by others when we went and a few viewpoints. The views at every single one of these points were magnificent and from the top one of the nicest panoramas you'll find anywhere in the world. The route wasn't too busy - only passed a few other people - and it was clean and tidy with little lizards (and maybe a snake) to keep you watching where you...
Read moreAbsolutely stunning view to witness first thing in the morning. The hike to get here from Catseye Beach area is moderate, however there are a lot of steps up towards the peak which will get you puffing. The trail is very dark prior to sunrise, so ensure you have a good light, and expect to walk through lots of spider webs. If walking, probably allow 45-60 minutes. If you are a good runner, you could do it in 20-25 minutes (but you’ll be pretty knackered by the top). There were only about 4 other people who were up there for sunrise the day I visited, so it’s great to just sit, relax and appreciate nature...
Read moreA spectacular walk with an amazing view of Hamilton Island and some other Whitsunday Islands along the entire track. This steep track has a lot of uphill on rocky terrain and many stairs, but worth the view. You will only find a few others on the track, so it is best to bring a picnic and stop to have lunch at some of the many picnic tables along the way. Make sure to bring lots of water. You can also download the Hamilton Island app and listen to an audio tour of the island...
Read more