Shaping Whitsunday Walking Trails

Consultation results and next steps

We thank the community for having their say on the region's walking trail network.

Walking trails are a popular recreational asset for residents of the Whitsundays who seek environmental enjoyment and fitness. We sought feedback on our mainland walking trail network to understand the public’s perception of and demand for upgraded or expanded walking trails in the region.

Please view our consultation summary or detailed consultation report. Key feedback included:

• A strong demand for more trail management of existing mainland and island tracks, including managing slippery eroded surfaces and clearing overgrown grass, trees, weeds and invasive plants.
• Strong support for additional trails of varying lengths and difficulties at various locations across the region that include attractions, such as water holes, beaches and outlooks/views.
• Additional signage with information is needed at the start of and on the trails as well as signage across the region to locate trail heads.
• Desire for upgrades to existing tracks including,
  1. lengthening or creating more loops and connecting tracks
  2. adding amenities, such as bins, pack racks, toilets, seats and water stations.
  3. Upgrades to improve safety of trails shared between mountain bikes and walkers
• Challenges for mountain bikers and trail walkers to co-exist on trails. Whilst 51% identified they may co-exist, majority of persons supportive of co-existence suggested specific rules and track design for it to work safely, such as signage, speed limits and track widening in areas of low visibility or hazardous sections.
• Whilst majority acknowledge mountain bikers and trail walkers can share trails, there is strong desire for some designated mountain bike tracks for users that may ride too competitively for safe shared tracks. Designated tracks may be extensions that lead off existing trails or unlocking trails in new areas.

Council Officers will consider the consultation report when developing Whitsunday Mainland Camping and Walking Trails and deciding upon future priorities for our trail network.

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Are you passionate about hiking and discovering our stunning natural landscapes?

We are assessing our Whitsunday Region's mainland walking trail network to understand the public’s perception of and demand for upgraded or expanded walking trails in the Region. Our natural assets are a strength of our Region, and we are eager to understand if they meet the needs of residents and visitors.

Currently, there are 19 mainland trails in Whitsundays, of varying length, difficulty and habitats. Not all are within bushland environments. View our fact sheet for more information.

Have your say on the type of and demand for walking trails via a short survey below.