Cape Hillsborough National Park
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Cape Hillsborough National Park is situated
on the Whitsunday Coast, a short drive north from Mackay,
and covers an area of 816ha. The park is characterised by
fabulous rocky headlands and formations, formed by early
volcanic behaviour. |
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The waters surrounding the National Park
are part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Along the
coast are beautiful rocky coves, secluded sandy beaches
and fantastic scenery.
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There are also plenty of opportunities to see
a wide range of wildlife in the National Park, including Kangaroos,
Sugar Gliders, Turtles and Wallabies. Throughout much of the park
you will see Brush Turkeys throughout the day. You may get to
see the Eastern Grey Kangaroos, which can often be found around
the picnic areas and on the beach during the afternoon and evening.
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The vegetation and plantlife around the
park is also diverse and can be fully experienced on one
of the many wonderful coastal walks. There are various walking
trails over the headlands and throughout the National Park
giving plenty of opportunity to see the various nature and
animals.
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A great walk is out to Wedge Island.
You can reach it from the Andrews Point walking trail, however,
you can only do this at the fall of low tide. There is also
a pleasant walking trail along the Mangrove Boardwalk which
is 1.2km, and starts about 500 metres inland from the picnic
area.
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The attractive Cape Hillsborough beach
is backed by a small parkland area featuring a picnic area
and facilities. This is also where the Cape Hillsborough
Resort is located, which offers tent and caravan
sites. There is also a small shop where you can buy food
and groceries.
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Further camping facilities can be found at Smalleys
Beach within the National Park. Camping spaces and water are limited,
so you must register with the National Park before camping.
Cape Hillsborough National Park Walking Trails
Andrews Point Track 2.5km (approx. 2 hours return)
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The Andrews Point Track is fantastic
walk which follows the coast. There are six lookouts
along the track, all of which offer great views of
the beautiful scenery. If the tide is low you can
return along the beach, however, you should check
the tides before following this route.
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Beachcomber Cove Track 1.6km (approx.
1.5 hours return)
The Beachcomber Cove Track starts at the northern end of
the picnic area. There are amazing views from the lookout,
which make up for the steep track.
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Juipera Plant Trail 1.6km (approx.
1 hour return)
The Juipera Plant Trail starts at the Hidden Valley, which
is about 1.2km from the picnic area. There are plent of
opportunities along the way to see many different plantlife.
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Mangrove Boardwalk 1.2km (approx 1 hour)
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The Mangrove Boardwalk starts about
500 metres inland from the picnic area. The scenery
is different to the other walks and is worth the easy
walk.
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Please Note: It is not advisable to swim in the
sea between October and May when Box Jellyfish can be found in
the coastal waters.
POPULAR QUEENSLAND TRAVEL DESTINATIONS
PLEASE NOTE: The Queensland travel destinations outlined above are only a small selection from the tens of thousands of Australian travel information pages available on Australian Explorer. A comprehensive list of destinations for Queensland Holidays can be found on the main Queensland Holidays location guide. |
