The Blue Arrow Cairns walk is one of my favourite Arrow tracks in Mount Whitfield Conservation Park. That’s why I’ve included it in my post 101 Fun Things to Do in Cairns. It’s less popular than the other Arrows probably because it’s one of the longest tracks in the park.

Nonetheless, the trail is lovely, yet challenging, as it meanders its way through tropical rainforest and open grassland to a fantastic viewpoint at Lumley Hill lookout.

The blue arrow circuit is one of my favourite arrow tracks.”

Continue reading to find all the information you need to plan, organise and enjoy a hike along the Blue Arrow Cairns circuit.  

Interesting Facts about the Blue Arrow Cairns Circuit

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1. The Blue Arrow is classified as a Grade 4 Walking Track, and will require a moderate level of fitness and some bushwalking experience
2. The Blue Arrow Circuit is a steep 8.4km continuation of the Red Arrow Circuit
3. This walk climbs to over 300m altitude on a track that is sometimes steep and narrow
4. The track contains numerous steps, and obstacles such as tree roots, and rocks are also common
5. Track signage is also present at all major intersections and where the track is indistinct 
6. This is a strenuous walk so carry water and wear sturdy footwear 
7. Walkers should allow plenty of time to complete the walk before it gets dark – do not start after 2pm  

Highlights

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• Lovely trail through tropical rainforest and open grassland in Mount Whitfield National Park
• Beautiful views overlooking Cairns skyline from viewpoint at Lumley Hill lookout
• Scrub fowl, bush turkeys and agile wallabies are a common sight along the walk

This hike is best for

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• Fit, experienced walkers
• Trail running
• A longer walk in Mount Whitfield National Park
• Nice views of Cairns city skyline from Lumley Hill lookout

Best Time to Visit

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The track is open year round and is suitable to visit anytime of the year as most of the trail is shaded by tropical rainforest.

There are a lot of mosquitos on the trail, so spray yourself with a tropical strength mosquito repellent before embarking on this trip.

Guide to the Blue Arrow Cairns Circuit

Distance – 8.4km return
Time – Allow about 3hr walking time
Elevation – 403m
Grade – Moderate
Track – Loop
Location – Mount Whitfield Conservation Park
Start/Finish – Collins Avenue

Gradient – Very steep
Quality of path – Formed track, some obstacles
Quality of markings – Sign posted
Steps – Many steps
Experienced required – Some bushwalking experience recommended

Blue Arrow Cairns Map

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Parking for Blue Arrow Cairns Walk

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Parking is available on Collins Avenue before the Cairns Botanical Gardens. During peak times, the parking near the start of the Red Arrow walking trail does get busy. However, you should find plenty of parking nearby along Collins Avenue.

Directions for the Blue Arrow Cairs Walking Track

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The Blue Arrow Circuit starts about halfway around the Red Arrow circuit. The junction where the Blue Arrow Circuit and the Red Arrow Circuit connect is signposted. 

The track begins with a steep climb to a lookout with views of the coast north of Cairns and a glimpse of Lumley Hill. 

A short distance beyond the lookout the track divides into a circuit, which can be walked in either direction. Clockwise is the best way to tackle the walk as it gets the steep going out of the way first.

Towards Lumley Hill Lookout

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The track quality degenerates quickly. The left branch climbs through rainforest on stairs created by the roots of rainforest trees. You follow the densely forested ridge up to the summit then drop down to a saddle where after about 1 ½ hours walk you arrive at the turnoff to Lumley Hill lookout. 

A short 400m (10 min) ascent through contrasting eucalypt forest brings you to the sheltered Lumley Hill lookout with great views north over the Barron River and coastline. 

The Return Trip

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The descent through the Hamliffe Creek Valley is the highlight of the walk for me. Sitting in the (usually) dry creek bed amid the mossy boulders and fungus-covered logs you can well imagine yourself in the depths of the Wet Tropics rather than a few hundred metres from suburbia. 

Just beyond the creek you pass through a magnificent forest of tall, buttressed trees with an open understorey. 

Soon the circuit is complete. 

In Conclusion

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The Blue Arrow Cairns circuit is a fairly long trail and one hikers should think carefully before attemting. Here are a few tips before you consider taking on this hike.

• Consider taking at least 3 hours to wander around the Blue Arrow Circuit 
• Carry plenty of water
• Insect repellent may come in handy as there are lots of mosquitos on the track 
• Don’t leave any later than about 2pm unless you are planning to jog all the way. It’s surprising how many people have to get “rescued” after dark

If you’re looking for more fun things to do in Cairns, there’s many more enjoyable hikes around Cairns as well as other exciting activities and places to visit.

Have you hiked the Blue Arrow Cairns circuit or are you planning to do so? If so, what do you like about this hike. I love to hear from my readers so please leave your comments below.