Have a peak at these hikes
Mountain climbing at it’s best
THERE is perhaps no greater achievement for a hiker than walking for several hours and standing on the summit of a mountain.
In Far North Queensland, there is no shortage of mountainous terrain to conquer, each affording you an epic adventure.
Just make sure you have proper equipment, including plenty of water and food and other emergency supplies like a first aid kit and torch, if you are tackling some of the more challenging hikes.
Check out some mountain trails to tackle, below:
MT TYSON
This steep, adventurous 6km return hike (4-5 hours) to the summit of Mt Tyson offers panoramic views of Tully township, the region’s cane and banana fields, the coastline and islands.
The track takes walkers though rainforest and eucalyptus scrub, and you may catch a glimpse of a cassowary or two.
Walkers are advised to register their walk plans at the Butler Street supermarket.
MT BARTLE FRERE
Standing at 1611m, this is Queensland’s highest mountain, therefore the 15km return trail is only recommended for very fit, experienced and wellprepared hikers. Walkers are advised to camp overnight. You will discover unique vegetation and wildlife on the way to the summit, such as the Bartle Frere skink which was only discovered in 1981. On a clear day, you can enjoy stunning views stretching from the coast to the Tablelands.
MT BALDY
At 8.4km return (about 2.5 hours), the walk to the 1109m summit of this Tablelands mountain is considered strenuous, but well worth the trip. Located within 2km of Atherton’s town centre, Mt Baldy offers great views of the Tablelands and Lake Tinaroo. There is also good birdwatching opportunities. And better still, this is one of the few mountain hikes you can actually do with a dog — as long as your pet is on leash. Don’t forget to sign the guest book at the summit.
MT SORROW
Mt Sorrow may have an offputting name for some hikers, but you will only find happiness once you reach the summit of this Daintree Rainforest peak after doing this 7km return (six hours) hike. The Mt Sorrow ridge trail takes bushwalkers through rainforestclad slopes, where you are afforded spectacular views of Cape Tribulation, Snapper Island, and even individual coral reefs out at sea, from an elevation of 680m.
MT COOK
At 6km return (four hours), this mountain near Cooktown is rated as difficult for veteran hikers. The circuit trail leads to a vantage point with views over the Great Barrier Reef to the east and the Endeavour Valley to the west. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. The national park is also home to scrub pythons, northern quolls, and buff-breasted paradise kingfishers.