5 of the best hikes and mountain climbs near Cairns

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Danielle	 Reckless

By Danielle Reckless

If you're planning a holiday to Cairns, no doubt both Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest adventures rank top of your list. But keen hikers will be intrigued to discover what lies a little further off the radar around the Cairns region: some of the state's best mountains to scale. 

Taking in the views takes on a whole new meaning on these mountain climbs in Cairns. Here, the Great Dividing Range spills into the Coral Sea, creating the most fun - and challenging - natural playground. Lace up those boots and hit the trails to find a whole new side to our tropical north.

Mount Bartle Frere

Views from summit of Mount Bartle Frere, Queensland's highest mountain | mountain climbs cairns

Soaring 1622m above sea level, Bartle Frere is the highest point in Queensland - so this hike comes with an added sense of cred and accomplishment. It's a challenging way to explore World Heritage rainforest, walking on the traditional land of the Noongyanbudda Ngadjon Aboriginal people. 

The mother of all mountain climbs near Cairns, whether you take the steeper Eastern route or the Western ascent, expect to be on the trail anywhere from 6-8 hours to reach the summit. Proper planning is essential to ensure you're not depleted of daylight on your return journey - and most hikers will plan this as an overnight trek, so consider packing a tent and pitching at the top for the night.

Carefully check weather conditions before you leave, as due to the terrain it's not recommended to climb during wet conditions. It’s also recommended to have some salt and insect repellent on hand to ward off leeches and mozzies, and bring plenty of water. 

Back on level ground, the rushing, serene Josephine Falls makes a welcome spot to cool weary feet (stick to the designated swimming areas as the water gets rough in these parts).

If summiting a mountain feels a bit intense, opt for the 1.2km-return rainforest walk alongside the falls instead.

Mount Baldy

Mount Baldy | mountain climbs cairns

Photo by @lau_lau07

Why dominate just one mountain when you can cross two off your bucket list in one adventure?

The Baldy Mountain Forest Reserve in the Atherton Tablelands includes the 8.5km Baldy-Yabi circuit walk, which traverses across two mountains. Alternatively, you can set out on a return walk to each summit separately.

The climb up Baldy is steep in sections, but the marked track is a favourite for fitness-loving locals who enjoy a quick view of Tinaroo Dam at the top before scuttling back down.

If you prefer to fuel your adrenaline with two wheels instead of two feet, this area also has excellent trails at the Atherton Forest Mountain Bike Park.

Fitzroy Island

Snorkelling, diving and beach lounging aren’t the only things to do on Fitzroy Island. This is a designated national park packed with beauty, so switch from thongs to sneakers and scale the island's summit.

The short 3.2km return hike will leave you invigorated by the spectacular views of the beaches and rainforest. In winter you might even spot a whale cruising by.

The island’s lighthouse is en route and a number of other trails such as the Secret Garden and Nudey Beach hikes also cut across the island. Whatever path you choose, it would be rude not to reward your efforts with a cocktail at sunset. You’re on a tropical island, after all.

Walsh’s Pyramid

Lady in a 4WD pulled over beside the roade to look at Walsh's Pyramid | mountain climbs cairns

This is one mountain climb near Cairns that'll force you to stop and stare before you even get started. A stark, granite prism that rises 922m from the ground, Walsh's Pyramid tempts experienced hikers with its steep 6km return trail.

While it's a challenging route, reach the very top to greet an impressive 360-degree view across the Wooroonooran National Park and beyond. Keen runners can sign up for the annual ‘Great Pyramid Race’, which tracks across Gordonvale and up the mountain.

You’ll find Walsh’s Pyramid 26km south of Cairns.

Misty Mountains wilderness trails

Misty Mountains Wilderness | mountain climbs cairns

Photo by @jacobhutson

The name says it all: those looking to delve deeply into Queensland's World Heritage Wet Tropics rainforest should put the Misty Mountains Wilderness on their radar. 

A 130km network of wild trails south of Cairns near Tully, Innisfail, Mena Creek, Millaa Millaa and Ravenshoe; wander here and you can traverse the Tully Falls, Tully Gorge and Wooroonooran national parks. Walk, 4WD and camp throughout the area along four long tracks—Koolmoon Creek, Cannabullen Creek, Cardwell Range and Gorrell tracks—or explore smaller fragments of the tracks. You can even mountain bike along some sections.

Be sure to stick to tracks within your skill level, as some trails in this area are remote. Bad weather can also close off sections, so be sure to get the latest information from the national parks service before you head out. 

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