Nature Walks in and around Port Douglas

Are you a keen explorer? Then Tropical North Queensland will certainly not leave you feeling unenthused!

There aren’t many places in the world where you can walk out of one World Heritage Area and head straight into another one. With as much to explore in the rainforest as there is in the reef, its time to lace up those hiking shoes and explore the epic backyard of Tropical North Queensland.

With so much natural beauty everywhere you look, the great outdoors is the place to be. Check out our favourite nature walks in and around the Port Douglas area.

Port Douglas Lookout

Our favourite spot for a morning coffee and breathtaking view! Kick-start your day with a walk up to the lookout on Flagstaff Hill which is just a short walk from Coconut Grove.

Port Douglas is bounded by water on three sides and this lookout gives you a stunning view of the entire panorama. Enjoy sweeping views of sandy Four Mile Beach with fringing palms, the majestic mountains and turquoise sea.

Not only is this a great spot for sunrise and during the day, but a very tranquil spot to relax in the evening – especially during a glistening full moon.

Exercise junkie? The locals favourite workout is running up and down the stairs connecting the beach to the lookout – certainly not for the faint-hearted! You can expect lots of sweat and maybe some tears, but nothing that a refreshing dip in the ocean can’t fix.

Don’t feel like walking? You can drive or ride up to the lookout – whichever option you choose, you’ll still be treated to the same glorious views that encapsulate the Tropical North Queensland environment so well.

Mossman Gorge

Located in the Southern Part of the Daintree National Park, Mossman Gorge is one of the regions most iconic attractions. Known best for its lush rainforest, refreshing water streams, powerful mountains and stunning Gorge – this is a must on any adventurers holiday to Far North Queensland.

There are many self-guided or tour guided boardwalks that you can choose from, or if your feeling adventurous, you can go off the beaten path and discover some more private swimming holes like the locals favourite ‘Hippie Hole’. If you are looking to extend your knowledge, go on a guided Dreamtime Walk to gain a deeper understanding of the extensive flora & fauna and traditional cultures & beliefs of the Indigenous people.

Take advantage of the abundance of nature walks and absorb the wonders of the dense green rainforest. There is clear signage throughout the rainforest and maps are provided upon entry – so no need to worry about getting lost! Our tip? Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it by one of the many water holes.

Located just 20 minutes from Port Douglas, the Gorge is easily accessed via daily transfers, tour group buses or simply by driving your own car. The team at Coconut Grove can organise your Mossman Gorge day trip for you.

Daintree Rainforest & Cape Tribulation

Did you know that the Daintree Rainforest is one of the oldest surviving rainforests in the world? To be exact, the flora & fauna have been establishing themselves for over 160 million years!

Now that certainly seems like a good enough reason to book your tropical getaway to Port Douglas and explore the magic that is the Daintree!

Emmagen Creek is one of our favourite spots in the Daintree. Either drive your car and walk 10 minutes or walk an hours hike from Cape Tribulation Beach. You will be greeted with a stunning waterhole and sandy beach.

The Dubuji Boardwalk is a picturesque boardwalk through the forest and mangroves. You can find it signposted on the main road to Cape Tribulation. The walk takes one hour and you can exit on the beach.

If you are looking for a real challenge, then the Mount Sorrow hike near Cape Tribulation is for you! The walk commences on the main road, two hundred metres north of the Kulki - Cape Tribulation Beach turn-off. There is a small car park where you can leave your car. Look for the walking sign which is set just off the road in the bush on the inland side of the road where the track starts. Watch out for leeches!

Whether you want to have a self-guided experience through the Daintree or a guided tour – we are here to help you plan the perfect Daintree day out.

Bump Track

Calling all fitness freaks! The 6km Bump Track is a must-do for all those who enjoy keeping fit and active. To sweeten the deal, you can enjoy magnificent views across to the sea and even to Mowbray Falls while you walk or run the track.

Did you know the Bump Track was actually the original track linking Port Douglas with the goldfields? Nowadays, the track is a popular trail for walking, mountain biking and horse riding.

To reach the bottom of the Bump Track, head south from Port Douglas along the Captain Cook Highway to Craiglie. Turn right into Mowbray River Road 1.5km south of Craiglie. Turn off Mowbray River Road into Connolly Road and continue for 3.5km to the Bump Track.

Heritage Walking Trail around Port Douglas

If you’re a fan of history then a leisurely stroll through the township of Port Douglas on the ‘Heritage Walking Trail’ would be an ideal activity for you. Travel back in time and see some of the historic landmarks around the town and learn about the rich history of Port Douglas.

You can pick up a self-guided walking map from the Port Douglas Tourist Information Centre or you can call into the Port Douglas Museum (near Anzac Park) for the trail map and more information.

Kuranda Village Walks

Kuranda is very well known for its quaint markets, but did you know there are also multiple different rainforest walking trails with some of the most beautiful flora & fauna in Australia?

A few favourite trails are the Rainforest Canopy Walk and the Jum Rum Creek Walk. These are easily accessible and only take around 40 minutes. We suggest making a day of it and experiencing everything Kuranda has to offer!

One of the best days out in Kuranda is with Brett’s Kuranda Tours! Experience the best of Kuranda with a scenic view on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, 2 hours in Kuranda to explore and enjoy some nature walks, a spectacular rail journey on the Kuranda scenic train and a visit to the pristine Palm Cove.