The 1.3 km Red Arrow circuit is one of a pair of tracks leading up the Mt. Whitfield Conservation Park behind the Cairns Botanical Gardens. The hike takes approximately 40 minutes to one hour to complete, has fantastic views of the natural environment, is frequented by beautiful looking people, and can be walked or run no matter what your fitness level is, the Red Arrow is the track of choice.
Approximately halfway up the Red Arrow Walk, the track splits into two and forms The Blue Arrow walk. This steep climb, which ascends the mountain to a height of 365 metres above sea level, is reserved for those among us that are fit and yearn for the burn. It is 5.4 km long, and drinking water should be taken.
The vegetation on the mountain is predominantly rainforest with patches of eucalyptus, grasslands, and tall bamboo. Scrub Turkeys are everywhere and are very friendly in a turkey sort of way. Agile Wallabies can be seen in the early morning or late afternoon in the grasslands, however they are less friendly than the turkeys. Along the path are informative signs that provide details of animal and plant life, including birds.
At the top of the Red Arrow walk is spectacular views of Trinity Inlet, the Coral Sea and Cairns city, and the fresh breeze is a welcome relief from the rainforest heat. So join us on the Cairns locals’ hiking track. Pull on a pair of runners, stretch your legs for a few moments and begin the hike through the beautiful Mt. Whitfield rainforest.
