Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Discover the rugged beauty of Cape Hillsborough National Park on the 2.2km Beachcomber Cove track, a Grade 3 moderate level hike. Starting from the picnic area, travel through diverse terrains including rainforest, eucalypt forest, and volcanic rock formations. Reach the stunning Beachcomber Cove lookout, with its mesmerising views and native kangaroos. Remember to check tide times before setting out on this 1.5-hour return journey, one of the highlights of outdoor adventure in Australia.

Length:

2.2km

Duration:

1.5 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 0m

Min elevation: 0m

Total Ascent: 0m

Start: Risley Parade

End: Risley Parade

Cape Hillsborough National Park

Queensland

Nearby town: Cape Hillsborough

From state capital: 1001km

Latitude: -20.92023657

Longitude: 149.0461922

Overview

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Region

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Hike overview

Beachcomber Cove track is located within Cape Hillsborough National Park. This ruggedly scenic park includes rainforest, eucalypt forest, beaches, rocky headlands covered in hoop pines, and volcanic rock formations.

The 2.2 kilometre return Beachcomber Cove track starts from the northern end of the Cape Hillsborough picnic area and passes through open eucalypt forest and remnant rainforest with hoop pines, ferns and vines. The track ends at Beachcomber Cove, where walkers can enjoy pleasant views from a lookout on top of the ridge. At low tide, you can return to Cape Hillsborough picnic area along the beach. Near the picnic area, you can often see kangaroos on the beach in the late afternoon. At high tide, you will need to retrace your steps along the track. Check tide times before setting out and allow one and a half hours to complete this walk of a moderate grade.

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Walk map and GPX file

Beachcomber Cove Track (2.2km)

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Getting there

Closest towns to this walk: Eungella, Finch Hatton, Mackay, Sarina, Seaforth, Seaforth Eungella, Walkerston Eungella, Yakapari

Getting to the trailhead in Cape Hillsborough National Park.

Get there with Google Maps

About the region

Cape Hillsborough is a national park in Mackay Region, Queensland, Australia.

The park is 837 km northwest of Brisbane. The park is a peninsula of volcanic origin, covered largely by rainforest; the maximum elevation is 267 m. The cape at the tip of the peninsula was named by Lieutenant James Cook during his first voyage to the Pacific in 1770; the name is in honour of Wills Hill, Earl of Hillsborough who was President of the Board of Trade and Plantations from 1765 to 1765. The nearest major town is Mackay, about 40 km to the southeast.

The park is located within the O'Connell River water catchment area and the Central Mackay Coast bioregion.

On National Parks Day 2010 (Sunday, 28 March 2010) the Queensland State Government announced the addition of 204 hectares to the park.

For more information on this hiking trail, please visit Queensland.com

Similar trails nearby

Looking for hikes and trails in Cape Hillsborough National Park or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.

Track grade

Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.

Packing checklists

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.

Let someone know

Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure

Reviews

Beachcomber Cove Track (2.2km)

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Acknowledgement of Country

Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file

Beachcomber Cove Track (2.2km)