AusLeisure

With sporting clubs, gyms and swimming pools all closed in the city, Cairns Regional Council has highlighted that going for a walk remains a safe exercise option if social distancing measures are adhered to.

The Council has advised residents that “if you're not self-isolating or unwell, (we are) encouraging you to make use of the many walking and cycling tracks that are available throughout the region.”

The Arrows (Mt Whitfield Conservation Park):
• Red Arrow: Remains open but with new restrictions to help maintain the social distancing measures. The Red Arrow is now a one-way circuit, with entry from the western side, behind the Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre. This 1.5 kilometre circuit includes steep sections, lots of steps and two open viewing areas overlooking Cairns city and north towards the airport. 
The track is suitable for people with no prior bushwalking experience.
• Yellow Arrow: A 1.9 kilometre formed track with many steps and takes about 1.5 hour return. 
• Blue Arrow: A very steep, 6km track that takes about 4-5 hours return. It is a rugged bush track with steep climbs and some obstacles. A moderate level of fitness is required and some bushwalking experience is recommended.
• Green Arrow: A very steep 3 kilometre track, which starts toward the top of the Blue Arrow loop and branches off toward Brinsmead, ending at Whitfield. It takes about 3 hours return and contains steep slopes and obstacles such as tree roots, rocks and fallen debris. A moderate level of fitness is required and some bushwalking experience is recommended.

Earl Hill: A 2 kilometre trail that features a great forest setting and is suited to all bushwalking levels. The entrance is off Roberts Road in the Bluewater Estate (Trinity Park).

Ivan Evans walking track: This 2.4  kilometre (return) track winds through dense rainforest and vineforest behind Bayview Heights and climbs gradually to a lookout. The track starts from Ellen Close and continues to Toogood Road. It is relatively easy to walk, but sturdy footwear is recommended, as some sections can be slippery and steep.

Glacier Rock hike: Starting from Stoney Creek in Kamerunga, this walk (about 2.2 kilometre) up to Glacier Rock features panoramic views extending out over Stoney Creek Gorge and Mt Whitfield. Suited for a family hike (bring plenty of water and a snack), the children will love the footbridge over the Kuranda railway line.

Cattana Wetlands: An 80-hectare nature conservation park at Smithfield, it has a 420 metre boardwalk through feather palm forest, freshwater and salt water lakes and abundant plant and birdlife.

Suburban cycling and walking tracks: There are a range of paths and cycle ways through the city. Unless otherwise marked, the cycle ways are also walking paths. 

For a full range of maps go to www.cairns.qld.gov.au/facilities-sport-leisure/cycling-walking-fitness/cycle

Image: The Yellow Track at Mt Whitfield Conservation Park, courtesy of Cairns Regional Council.

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