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Community & Development /  Community & Facilities /  Natural Reserve & Walking Trails

Natural Reserve & Walking Trails

Around 70% of Hamilton Island is untouched native bushland – an accessible wilderness buzzing with native wildlife, with all the comforts of a contemporary tropical resort. 
 
Please note that dogs are not permitted to enter the Natural Reserve areas of Hamilton Island or walk on the walking trails. Refer to the  Domestic Animals section for more information.

This page covers the following topics:

Discover the Trails

Download our Walking Trail Map here. It is also available for free at the tour desk.
 
Exploring Hamilton Island on foot can be a great way to explore its natural beauty, at your own pace. See below for details about each walking trail.

A) Hideaway Bay

Like the name suggests, this hidden beach is just a short stroll away from the Scenic Trail entrance. Discover this secluded bay where you can enjoy the tranquil waters and views towards... Whitsunday Island whilst you relax in a private hammock.

Grade 3 (Moderate) walk.
Photo credit: @allastalladventures

B) Saddle Junction

Starting from the Scenic Trail Entrance, follow the Scenic Trail to Saddle Junction, which is the main junction for the Passage Peak, South East Head, Escape Beach, Middle Head and Coral... Cove trails.

Grade 3 (Moderate) walk.
Distance: 1.8km | 45 minute (one way)

C) Flat Top Hill Lookout

Start from the Resort Trail entrance and continue to the Resort Lookout Junction. Walk along the Saddle Junction trail for 100m where a left turn will take you onto the Flat Top Hill trail.... From there, it is a short walk to the Flat Top Hill Viewing Area.

Grade 3 (Moderate) walk.
Distance: 1.2km | 30 minute (one way)

D) Passage Peak

It is recommended the Passage Peak walk is commenced from the Scenic Trail Entrance. This is a spectacular but challenging walk. You will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the... Whitsundays from the highest point on Hamilton Island, Passage Peak.

Grade 3 (Challenging) walk with many steps.
Distance: 2.7km | 1hour 15 minute (one way)

E) Middle Head Trail

Starting from Turkey Nest Junction, this trail takes you along a landscape rich in Australian native flora. Middle Head trail ends at the top of a hill with glimpses of the Whitsunday... islands and waters to the south.

Grade 3 (Moderate) walk.
Distance: 3.1km | 1 hour 15 minute (one way).

F) Coral Cove

Starting from the Scenic Trail Entrance via Saddle Junction, Coral Cove is a secluded and peaceful beach. Here you will also find a giant swing, it’s picture perfect with the crystal clear... water.

Grade 3 (Moderate) walk.
Distance: 3.1km | 1 hour 15 minute (one way)
Photo By Andrew Caitens.

G) Escape Beach Trail

From the Scenic Trail Entrance, continue through Saddle Junction to Escape Beach. This walk can also include South East Head and Passage Peak before returning back to Saddle... Junction.

Grade 3(Moderate) walk.
Distance: 3.3km | 1 hour 30 minute (one way).
Photo By Andrew Caitens.

H) Resort Lookout

This is an excellent introduction to our island walks, taking you through typical Whitsunday bushland starting at the Resort Trail Entry, at the eastern end of the Conference Centre. The... Resort Lookout is the second highest point on Hamilton Island.

Grade 3 (Moderate) walk.
Distance: 1.7km | 45 minute (one way).

I) South East Head Trail

Dense bush gives way to exposed, rock features and sharp cliffs on this trail. A gigantic chair awaits you at the end of the walk to sit back, and take in the stunning views. For the... adventurous, walk via Passage Peak or Escape Beach before returning to Saddle Junction.

Grade 3 (Moderate) walk.
Distance: 4.4km | 1 hour 45 minute (one way).

Know Before You Go

There are a few things to note about bushwalking on Hamilton Island.

  • There are a range of trails available depending on your fitness levels, and how far you want to walk.
  • Please consider weather conditions before setting off.
  • Bush & walking trails are open from 6.30am to 5.30pm. The trails are not staffed and do not get closed off in the evenings. We recommend you walk at a time of day that suits your level of ability.
  • There are no toilets on the trails.
  • Fires are prohibited on the island.
  • To keep the environment as pristine as possible, please take all your rubbish with you.
  • If you’re walking alone, let someone know before you start out, and never swim alone at secluded beaches.
  • With tables scattered along the walking trails, there are plenty of places to stop and enjoy a picnic.

Walking Tips

  • Fitness: A reasonable to high level of fitness is required for all trails due to the hilly terrain and warm climate.
  • Water: Taking water is essential. 1-2 litres per person, per hour.
  • Hat/sunblock: Use regardless of weather conditions.
  • Shoes: Most trails are rocky. Sturdy, enclosed footwear with good tread is required.
  • Clothing: Wear comfortable and breathable clothing that protects you from the sun, including a hat.
  • Snacks: Health food bars and fruit are suggested.
  • Walking alone: Inform someone where you are going and when you will be back. There is no mobile coverage in some areas of the tracks.
  • Camera: Great idea!
  • Insect repellent: Use for your own protection.

Safety Considerations

If you are walking in the morning or afternoon be aware of the time of sunrise and sunset. Hamilton Island accepts no liability for any injuries sustained.

Gympie-Gympie Stinging Tree

Gympie-Gympie has broad oval or heart-shaped leaves with saw-tooth edges and white or purple-red fruit. They are covered in stinging hairs which appear furry. Brushing against the tree will cause the hairs to embed into the skin and cause an extremely painful stinging sensation. If stung, do not rub the area, and seek urgent medical attention. Please stay on marked trails to avoid contact with the plant.

Irukandji Jellyfish

Irukandji – a small and transparent jellyfish - can be present in the waters of the Whitsunday Islands, predominantly during the summer months. They are more commonly found in deep water, however there have been an increased number of occurrences in shallow waters recently. Symptoms of an Irukandji sting include severe pain, muscle constriction and breathing difficulties which require immediate medical attention. For this reason, we recommend that you avoid swimming in secluded beaches. If you choose to swim in the ocean – instead of one of the many pools – we recommend you wear a stinger suit and swim in the presence of others so assistance can be given if needed. We would strongly advise that small children and guests who are pregnant, have a heart or pre-existing medical condition, only swim in our pools.

Sharks

Hamilton Island is part of the Whitsundays marine ecology and sharks frequent the waters in the region. Whilst the risk of attack is very low, it does exist. We recommend that you don’t swim at dawn, dusk or at night or in unclear water. Always swim with others. Leave the water quickly and calmly if you see a shark or if fish begin to gather in large schools, jump out of the water or behave erratically.

Helpful Resources

Learn more about walking trails:
https://www.hamiltonisland.com.au/nature-and-wildlife/bushwalking
https://www.hamiltonisland.com.au/blog/ultimate-guide-to-hamilton-island-bushwalks-hike

Contact Details

For further information please email our Tour Desk or call on +61(0)7 4946 8305.