Visiting Mount Whitfield safely

Getting there and getting around

The park is located less than 5km from Cairns city centre. Access into the park is by foot only. The Red and Blue Arrow circuits start from trail heads on Collins Avenue, Edge Hill—one near the Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre and one to the east of the Tanks Art Centre. The Green Arrow starts towards the top of the Blue Arrow loop, ending at Bel Air Drive, Whitfield. The Yellow Arrow starts on Aeroglen Drive, Aeroglen and also joins up to the Blue Arrow circuit.

Public transport

The city bus service provides transport to and from the entrance to Mount Whitfield Conservation Park on Collins Avenue. See Sunbus for timetables.

Wheelchair accessibility

There are no wheelchair-accessible facilities or tracks in Mount Whitfield Conservation Park.

Staying safe

All walks are strenuous. Only fit walkers should tackle the Blue Arrow circuit and should allow plenty of time to return before it gets dark. Wear sensible clothes, walking shoes or boots and carry plenty of water—water is not available on the tracks.

In an emergency, phone Triple Zero (000). If you have difficulty connecting to 000 from your mobile phone, try dialling 112.

For more information, please read the guidelines on safety in parks and forests.

Before you visit

Essentials to bring

To ensure an enjoyable visit please remember to bring:

• a hat, sunscreen and plenty of drinking water
• sturdy shoes, particularly for the Blue Arrow circuit
• insect repellent and suitable clothing to protect against insect bites.

Opening hours

Mount Whitfield Conservation Park is open 24hrs a day. Walk in daylight hours only. Do not start the Blue Arrow circuit after 2.00pm.

Pets

Domestic animals are not permitted in Mount Whitfield Conservation Park.

Climate and weather

During the wet season, from December to April, there are frequent, heavy downpours. Maximum temperatures through the wet season generally range from 27°C to 38°C, with high humidity.

The cooler, drier months, from May to September, are the best time for walking. The weather is pleasantly warm during this time, with reduced humidity and maximum temperatures averaging 26°C.