Red Arrow Cairns

Red Arrow Walking Track: Explore Cairns’ Scenic Beauty

The Red Arrow walking track is a popular and picturesque hiking trail in the heart of Cairns, Queensland, Australia. It’s a fantastic choice for locals and visitors seeking a short but rewarding outdoor adventure.

Discover the fascinating history of these trails and the diverse experiences they offer for outdoor enthusiasts.

Red Arrow Circuit

This 1.5km trail, though seemingly short, packs a punch with over 250 steps on each side. It’s a cardio lover’s dream, winding through shady rainforest gullies and towering fish pole bamboo. Watch for the Australian brush turkey and the occasional wallaby or lizard.

Blue Arrow

The 6km return to Blue Arrow is a challenging option for those seeking a rugged bush adventure. It features steep climbs and uneven terrain, making prior bushwalking experience advisable. You can catch glimpses of Red Peak Mountain and Green Island along the way.

Green Arrow

The Green Arrow is a steep 3km track that leads to Mount Whitfield’s highest point at 364m. It then winds its way down through thin corridors carved into steep ridges, emerging in the suburb of Whitfield. You can link all three trails for an epic circuit.

Yellow Arrow

The Yellow Arrow is a 1.9-kilometre trail known for its picturesque waterfalls, flora, and lookout points. It offers a more relaxed hiking experience, with flat sections between more challenging parts. You can even combine it with the Red Arrow for a scenic circuit.

Outstanding design

Trail designer Glen Jacobs and his team carefully crafted these trails, considering the best features and lookout points to provide those awe-inspiring “wow moments.” Botanists and local Aboriginal elders were consulted to ensure cultural and environmental significance. The trail development process takes time, with meticulous planning and ongoing maintenance to ensure safety and sustainability.

As you explore these enchanting rainforest trails, you’ll immerse yourself in their natural beauty and tranquillity. It’s easy to forget that these trails were designed to offer a tailored hiking experience for all fitness levels and timeframes. And if you prefer not to stretch your legs, the beautiful Botanic Gardens at the base of the range offer an equally rewarding experience.

Trail Highlights

 

Distance

The Red Arrow track is a relatively short circuit, spanning approximately 1.3 kilometres (0.8 miles). It’s an ideal option for a quick nature escape.

Difficulty

This trail is moderately easy, making it suitable for people of various fitness levels, including families with children.

Scenic Views

As you venture along the Red Arrow, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of Cairns, the Coral Sea, and the surrounding rainforest-clad mountains.

Flora and Fauna

The track is also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the lush Australian rainforest, where you may spot local wildlife and unique plant species.

Trail Access

The Red Arrow track is conveniently located just minutes from the city centre of Cairns. Following the well-marked trail, you can start your hike from the Cairns Botanic Gardens precinct.

Duration

The hike typically takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the beautiful scenery.

• The trail is well maintained and features informative signage along the way.
• Benches and resting spots allow you to pause to enjoy the surroundings.
• Bring water, comfortable walking shoes, and sunscreen, as some sections can expose the trail to the sun.
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Cairns’ Hidden Gem

Many consider the Red Arrow walking track a hidden gem in Cairns, providing a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photography lover, or just looking for a peaceful stroll, this track provides an excellent opportunity to connect with the natural beauty of Far North Queensland.

So, the Red Arrow walking track is the perfect choice if you’re in Cairns and craving some outdoor adventure without straying too far from the city. Soak in the stunning vistas and embrace the beauty of this coastal paradise.