After 5 Days in Townsville, I’ve Found Your Must-Visit Spots

We Are Explorers acknowledges that this adventure is located on the traditional Country of the Wulgurukaba, Bindal, Girrugubba, Warakamai, and Nawagi Peoples who have occupied and cared for the lands, waters, and their inhabitants for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them as the Traditional Custodians and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.

As far as chasing off-the-radar adventures go, North Queensland is right up there with the best. Across a bounty of environments and natural terrains, there’s so much to see and do for all levels of outdoor enthusiasts: from the bush-bashing hobbyist to the fully-fledged weekend warrior, it’s the kind of place where you’ll never get bored – I know I didn’t!

Townsville in North Queensland is a region which in the lucky position of being sandwiched between the Great Barrier Reef and the World Heritage Wet Tropics rainforest. These two incredible natural wonders provide endless water and land-based activities (read: get soaking wet/filthy) and places to discover.

Whether this is scuba diving or snorkelling the world’s largest coral reef system, getting up close to endemic animal and plant life or hiking incredible ancient rainforest trails; the diverse ways you can spend your days here stop nothing short of capturing the imagination.

Here’s how I spent my time around Townsville!

Read more: Remember to leave no trace

1. Tackle the Trails of Magnetic Island

Jumping on a ferry and heading off to an island will always elicit a feeling of adventure — and Maggie Island (as the locals call it) is no different. Multiple services run daily with SeaLink from the Breakwater Terminal — so if your early morning hike/swim runs over, don’t worry!

Those keen to tackle some big hikes will enjoy the Cockle Bay to West Point Track, which winds along the less populated west coast with glimpses of the iconic SS City of Adelaide Shipwreck. Another great walk is the Nelly Bay to Arcadia Track, an up-and-over style walk with brilliant views of the north and south coasts — this one is a real thigh burner!

Perhaps the best-known way I found to turn my legs over was the Forts Walk. This easygoing 4km trail winds between gorgeous views before getting walkers up close to abandoned WWII fortifications. At the top, you’re blown away by amazing 360° panoramas, and you’ll also find plenty of informative displays detailing the site’s storied history.

And keep your eyes peeled, there’s every chance you’ll spot a koala here as Yunbenun/Magnetic Island boasts North Queensland’s biggest population. On my way back down, there was a mother and baby just metres away from the path: magic.

If you’re really up for a challenge, why not sign up for The Great Island Trek on the 7th of September 2024? There are both 15km and 25km courses across the island, but only a few places left!

2. Soak Up the Waters of Magnetic Island

Once the ferry lands, the swaying palm trees, bush-covered escarpments, and shimmering water scream tropical island vibes.

From here, it was a game of dividing my time between the lush island interior and the shimmering ocean. Be warned, though, each tried to claim as much of my attention as possible.

Out on the water and around Yunbenun/Magnetic Island’s shores, there are a multitude of beaches and coves to explore.

Stinger season is a part of life here, but armed with a highly fashionable stinger suit from November to May, accessing the water isn’t an issue. I looked quite fetching in mine.

On the east coast, Arthur and Florence Bays provide some great inshore coral reefs to explore — and both are accessible from the beach. Horseshoe Bay is a popular water sports destination to the north, while neighbouring Balding and Radical Bays are challenging hike-in/hike-out secluded coves with big castaway personas.

Read more: 8 Ways to Minimise Your Impact While Snorkelling and Diving

3. Take in the Majesty of Wallaman Falls

A little over two hours northwest of Townsville and nestled in the Girringun National Park is one of Australia’s most mesmerising water features. If you’re an avid waterfall chaser, look no further: Nginba Warrgamaygan Ngarji/Wallaman Falls is the country’s highest permanent single-drop waterfall and an absolute marvel. My neck hurt simply taking the whole thing in!

But it isn’t all about water. Surrounding the waterfalls is the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, Townsville’s own slice of ancient rainforest dating back over 130 million years.

On arrival, you can’t help being drawn to the viewing platform — and what a view it is! Take in the jaw-dropping reveal of the entire falls and the scale of the hike you’re about to undertake. It isn’t long (little over 3km), but with a 250m descent and ascent on the cards — plus North Queensland’s humidity — come prepared and pack plenty of water.

Depending on the time of year, your experience at the bottom of the falls will vary. In the wet season (November to April), swimming isn’t always possible due to the sheer strength of the water’s flow – but this makes for a damn impressive view! 

During the dry season is the best time for a dip, when water can resemble a cascading rainbow. I was lucky enough to jump in for a splash, and it was one for the memory books. Either way, the grandeur of this waterfall is breathtaking.

Read more: How To Stay Safe Around Swimming Holes &Waterfalls

4. Up Your Step Count at Castle Hill

An integral part of the skyline and seen from almost any direction, Townsville’s defining feature is the rocky heights of Cutheringa/Castle Hill. It’s an imposing but, at the same time, stunning orange-hued backdrop.

You can drive to the top, but where’s the fun in that? If lacing up your shoes and getting to the top under your own steam is more your thing (which it should be), then take your pick from nine different tracks. These vary from sealed road to moderately steep gravel tracks and give you ample opportunity to mix things up if you decide to walk it more than once.

A great way to burn off those extra, yet mysterious, calories I tend to pick up on adventures.

At the top — as you’d expect — the vistas are amazing. Try a sunrise strike mission or an afternoon sunset stroll for different experiences — heck, why not do both? One thing is certain – the walk to the 286m summit is equally rewarding as it is scenic.

5. Head for the Hills at Paluma Range National Park

After twisting and turning your way to nearly 900m of elevation, there’s an undeniable change in the climate once on Munan Gumburu/Paluma Ranges.

Little wonder, as the traditional name – given by the Nywaigi, Gugu Badhun, and Gurambilbarra Wulgurukaba peoples — literally means ‘misty mountain’. Morning fog is common, and so is a distinct drop in temperature, which, considering how far north it is, can be a nice reprieve from the sunshine of the coastline.

As far as activities go, there’s a bit of everything. From Paluma Village, you have endless opportunities to cycle the mountain roads.

At Paluma Dam, there’s even a dedicated mountain bike circuit if pedalling up dust is more your thing. And for those looking to push out onto the water and paddle, there’s every chance to glimpse a rare sighting of a platypus around the various inlets.

Over 100km of walking tracks with accompanying camping spots should keep the hikers busy. I’m a fan of secluded waterholes and was spoilt for choice between Paradise Waterhole, Little Crystal Creek, and Big Crystal Creek – the latter has some epic natural rockslides! Nature’s theme park anyone?

Psst! The Paluma Push is a cross-country marathon mountain bike race happening on the rainforest trails of Paluma village on the 13th of July 2024! Registrations are open now.

6. Go Off-Grid at Hinchinbrook Island

If rugged multi-day hikes taking in crystal clear mountain streams, isolated white sand beaches, and boulder-lined creeks sound appealing, look no further.

Munamudanamy/Hinchinbrook Island is one of Australia’s largest island national parks and attracts masses of modern-day Explorers from around the globe.

However, you need a permit to access it. Only 40 people are allowed onto the island at a time to help ensure the protection of biodiversity and natural habitats. After all, somebody’s got to keep a leash on these humans, right?

The 32km Thorsborne Trail is regularly thrown about in conversation as one of the world’s best walks, but if you’re short on time, there are other activities available on a day trip, such as world-class fishing or kayaking your way across the clear waters around the east coast. You can also walk part of the Thorsborne Trail on a day trip.

Often coined as Australia’s very own Jurassic Park, the variety of environments here is the real drawcard; from misty mountain peaks to mangroves teeming with life, Munamudanamy/Hinchinbrook Island is a feast for the senses. Add to this the guarantee of absolute tranquillity and isolation and you’ll easily see why this is an all-time Explorer’s paradise.

From towering cascades, to trails with panoramic views, and not forgetting one of the largest natural wonders in the world, as far as places to see, Townsville has a smorgasbord of options. Take a week and see them all or tackle one or two over a couple of days; this corner of Queensland has unforgettable adventures by the bucket load.

Read more: Snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef Off of Townsville Blew All My Expectations

Photos thanks to @ryanbaldwinnn