Mount Stuart Lookout
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Townsville and Magnetic Island from this elevated lookout point. A must-visit for scenic beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light, fewer clouds
Mount Stuart Lookout
Best Time
Best light, fewer clouds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Townsville and Magnetic Island from this elevated lookout point. A must-visit for scenic beauty.
"Magnificent views, a peaceful area, and truly amazing. Worth the drive!"
🚗 Drive Carefully Up
The road is steep & winding; watch for cyclists & walkers. :car:
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Walking tracks can be uneven, rocky, and muddy. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Townsville Views
Mount Stuart Lookout
Breathtaking 360-degree views of Townsville, Magnetic Island, and the surrounding landscape.
+1
Scenic Walking Track
Around the lookout
An uneven loop track offering diverse viewpoints and a chance to spot local wildlife like rock wallabies.
Sunset & Stargazing Spot
Mount Stuart Lookout
Enjoy magical sunsets or a unique dinner experience surrounded by clouds.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Clear Views
+1Navigating the Ascent
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive Carefully Up
The road is steep & winding; watch for cyclists & walkers. :car:
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Walking tracks can be uneven, rocky, and muddy. :athletic_shoe:
☁️ Check Cloud Cover
Views can be obscured by low clouds; aim for clear days. :cloud:
📸 Bring Your Camera
Capture stunning panoramic views of Townsville and Magnetic Island.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive Carefully Up
The road is steep & winding; watch for cyclists & walkers. :car:
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Walking tracks can be uneven, rocky, and muddy. :athletic_shoe:
☁️ Check Cloud Cover
Views can be obscured by low clouds; aim for clear days. :cloud:
📸 Bring Your Camera
Capture stunning panoramic views of Townsville and Magnetic Island.
🧺 Picnic Potential
Enjoy a meal with a view, even a pizza dinner in the clouds!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Mount Stuart Lookout for its magnificent and expansive views of Townsville and Magnetic Island. The ample parking and peaceful atmosphere are also highlights. However, some note the challenging, winding drive up and the lack of facilities like toilets or shops. The walking track, while scenic, can be uneven and requires good mobility.
"Wow, magnificent views.
Plenty of parking.
Viewing platform only
No one was there when i went.
10km winding steep grade .
Took about 15 - 20 min
No toilets availability.
There is a loop walking track , mostly uneven.
No shop there just viewing.
Thee towers are just repeaters for what ever signal , tv, radio.
I would recommend this."
Gavin Wicks
"Narrow winding road up be careful of bike riders and walkers they train on mountain ( fit people) easy side trek wile passing through"
Kai Pettit
"Fabulous views! It's true beauty! Worth the drive to visit!"
Mel Daniels
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive up the steep, winding Mount Stuart Road. Be cautious of cyclists and walkers who use the road for training. Alternatively, for the very fit, there's a 9km uphill climb.
The road is generally safe if you drive slowly and carefully, but some sections are single-lane. Watch out for other users of the road.
Yes, there's a 9km uphill climb, and also a loop walking track around the lookout. The walking track can be uneven with steps and rocks.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available at the lookout.
The drive is approximately 10km of winding road, taking about 15-20 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Mount Stuart Lookout is a free public access area.
Mount Stuart Lookout is accessible at all times, though visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best views.
There is no entry fee to visit Mount Stuart Lookout.
While there aren't specific tours advertised, many local tour operators in Townsville may include it as part of a broader itinerary.
The main consideration is the steep and winding road. Be mindful of weather conditions, as clouds can obscure views.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You'll get magnificent, panoramic views of Townsville city, Magnetic Island, and the surrounding coastline.
Unfortunately, there are no toilet facilities available at Mount Stuart Lookout.
No, there is no shop or cafe at the lookout. It's purely a viewing area.
The loop walking track is mostly uneven, with steps and rocks, and can be muddy after rain. It offers great views all around.
Some visitors have reported seeing butterflies, dragonflies, and even rock wallabies.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with fewer clouds and softer shadows.
You can capture stunning panoramic cityscapes, coastal views, and dramatic cloud formations.
The entire lookout area offers excellent vantage points. The walking track also provides different angles for unique shots.
Even with clouds, you can capture dramatic and moody shots. Consider focusing on the textures and patterns of the clouds.
Drone regulations vary, so it's essential to check current Australian and Queensland aviation rules before flying. Always fly responsibly and respect privacy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at the lookout, making it a memorable outing. Be aware that there are no toilets, so plan accordingly. The walking track can be challenging for very young children due to its uneven terrain. 🚶♀️ Hikers and Fitness Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers
Aim for clear mornings or late afternoons for the best light and fewer clouds. The panoramic views of Townsville and Magnetic Island are stunning, and the lookout also offers opportunities for capturing dramatic cloudscapes. +1 The walking track provides alternative angles and perspectives for unique shots. Remember to check drone regulations if you plan to capture aerial footage. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Scenic Drive and Walk
This track is described as mostly uneven, with steps and rocks, and can become muddy after rain, so sturdy footwear is a must. Despite the challenging terrain, the effort is rewarded with increasingly spectacular views as you ascend.
Capturing the Iconic Views
Many visitors recommend visiting on a clear day to avoid the views being obscured by low clouds, which can happen frequently. For photographers, the best times to visit are typically early mornings or late afternoons.
These periods offer softer, more flattering light, ideal for capturing the cityscape and natural beauty. Even on cloudy days, the dramatic cloud formations can create stunning, moody photographs. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive panoramas, and be prepared for the possibility of unique atmospheric conditions, such as being surrounded by clouds for a dreamy dinner experience. +1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit