Forts Walk, Magnetic Island National Park

The Forts Walk is the island’s most popular walking experience, showcasing many highlights of Magnetic Island National Park—koalas, stunning views and World War II relics all set in the island’s dry tropical landscape.

Walk through eucalypt and acacia woodland where there is a good chance of spotting a wild koala in the stunted trees. Towards the top, impressive WWII concrete fortifications sit naturally amongst the granite boulder and hoop pine landscape.

The views just get better and better. From the many vantage points see different perspectives of the island landscapes. From the very top, the views take in the surrounding ocean encompassing Bowling Green Bay National Park to the south and the Palm Islands and Hinchinbrook Island National Park to the north.

The Forts Walk protects the best-preserved WWII coastal defence fortifications in Queensland and is a heritage listed site. A historical interpretive display explains the ruins and building at the site and brings life to the stories of men and women who served on Magnetic Island during the war.

Visit the Forts Walk early in the day—it is cooler, often easier to find a car park and koalas and other wildlife are more active.

The Forts Walk leaves from the Forts Junction - the hub of Magnetic Island National Park providing access to the park, information about the island and how to get around.

This walk is managed by the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service. The map only shows an indicative start point; the track route and end point are not shown, and the map cannot be used for navigation purposes. See the website for detailed maps and the latest park information. When you are in the park, read the signs at and near the start of the track.