Blue Arrow Circuit
A challenging, unformed rainforest circuit in Mt Whitfield Conservation Park, offering stunning views and an immersive jungle experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and enjoy cooler temps.
Blue Arrow Circuit
Best Time
Beat the heat and enjoy cooler temps.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging, unformed rainforest circuit in Mt Whitfield Conservation Park, offering stunning views and an immersive jungle experience.
"It's one of the most beautiful, rewarding tracks in Cairns, in my opinion."
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Essential for navigating rocks and roots. Good grip is key! :athletic_shoe:
Carry Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on this demanding jungle trek. You'll need it! :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lumley Hill Lookout
Upper section of the circuit
Panoramic views of the surrounding tropical rainforest and city area. A rewarding stop after a challenging hike.
Tropical Rainforest Immersion
Entire circuit
Experience the lush, dense beauty of the city's best example of tropical rainforest. A true jungle adventure.
Challenging Trail Navigation
Lower and upper sections
Test your hiking skills on this unformed track with rocks, roots, and steep sections. An adventure for the sure-footed.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Navigation
Maintenance & Best Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Essential for navigating rocks and roots. Good grip is key! :athletic_shoe:
Carry Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on this demanding jungle trek. You'll need it! :droplet:
Mind Your Steps
The path can be confusing; look for the small blue arrows on trees. :compass:
Allow Ample Time
The 2-hour return trip can vary; take your time to enjoy the scenery. :clock1:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Essential for navigating rocks and roots. Good grip is key! :athletic_shoe:
Carry Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on this demanding jungle trek. You'll need it! :droplet:
Mind Your Steps
The path can be confusing; look for the small blue arrows on trees. :compass:
Allow Ample Time
The 2-hour return trip can vary; take your time to enjoy the scenery. :clock1:
Check Trail Conditions
The trail can be challenging; be prepared for maintenance needs. :construction:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Blue Arrow Circuit is a beautiful but challenging hike through tropical rainforest, offering rewarding views from Lumley Hill Lookout. While many praise its immersive natural beauty and the sense of accomplishment, some visitors note that the trail requires maintenance, with sections that can be steep and confusing to navigate. It's best suited for experienced hikers seeking a demanding adventure. +2
"The blue arrow is one of the 4 official arrow tracks in Mt Whitfield conservation park. It’s a circuit track that starts at the yellow arrow summit and runs between the yellow arrow summit and lumley hill lookout. The lower section is more difficult than the upper section. It's done in conjunction with either the red or yellow arrow or to a lesser extent the unofficial black arrow (the track from duplock park to lumley hill lookout) However you can can turn it into a linear track by using either the green or black arrow, either the upper or lower section of the blue arrow and either the red or yellow arrow. The track is unformed, narrow with lots of rocks and roots to negotiate. It’s mostly well defined but there are a few spots on the lower section that may need a pause to identify the track, this track is far less used than the red, yellow and black arrows. There are only a couple of view points, most notably lumley Hill lookout. It has been logged in the past but is still the best example of tropical rainforest in the city area. Shortly after starting from the yellow arrow you'll see a sign saying lookout 70m. This lookout no longer exists due to vegitation regrowth."
Jason Adams (Jase)
"The Blue Arrow is beautiful, and by far my favourite walk of the four arrow trails, but it badly needs maintenance. The first half, crossing lower through the mountain is mostly fine, but the second, higher up half is filled with steep edges, and confusing pathing. Often you could easily wonder off the path going in a random direction because sometimes animal tracks are equally as clear as the actual path, other times the path is practically hidden, and the only way to know is a small blue arrow, nailed to a tree and covered in moss.
If you're up for a few hours of carefully walking thought the trail, it's one of the most beautiful, rewarding tracks in Cairns, in my opinion. Just bring plenty of water, and don't bring kids."
Maxwell Ferris
"Great walk. Yes does need some maintenance but view was great. Took me 2hours return."
Izzy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Blue Arrow Circuit is located in Mt Whitfield Conservation Park. Access is typically from the Yellow Arrow summit trailhead. You can drive to the park and follow signs for the hiking trails.
Yes, there is usually parking available at the conservation park, especially near the main trailheads like the Yellow Arrow summit. Arrive early to secure a spot.
While direct public transport to the trailhead might be limited, you can check local bus routes that service the areas near Mt Whitfield Conservation Park. It's advisable to confirm schedules and stops beforehand.
From Cairns city, driving is the most convenient option. The park is a short drive away. If using public transport, plan your route to get as close as possible and be prepared for a walk to the trailhead.
The Blue Arrow Circuit is often done in conjunction with the Yellow Arrow trail, starting from the Yellow Arrow summit. It can also be linked with the Red Arrow or Black Arrow trails for a longer circuit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Mt Whitfield Conservation Park and its hiking trails, including the Blue Arrow Circuit, is free.
Conservation parks are generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to start your hike well before dusk to ensure you have enough light to complete the circuit safely.
There is no entrance fee for the Blue Arrow Circuit or any of the trails within Mt Whitfield Conservation Park.
While official guided tours might not be readily available for this specific circuit, local tour operators may offer guided hikes in Mt Whitfield Conservation Park. It's worth checking with local tourism providers.
No permits are required for general hiking on the Blue Arrow Circuit. It's a public access trail within the conservation park.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Blue Arrow Circuit typically takes around 2 hours to complete return, but this can vary depending on your fitness level and how often you stop.
The Blue Arrow Circuit is considered a challenging hike due to its unformed sections, rocks, roots, and steep inclines. It's not recommended for absolute beginners or those with mobility issues.
Expect an unformed, narrow track with plenty of rocks and roots. The terrain is varied, with steep edges and some sections that require careful navigation.
Yes, Lumley Hill Lookout offers a significant viewpoint along the circuit, providing views of the surrounding rainforest and city.
The track is mostly well-defined, but there are a few spots, especially on the lower section, where you might need to pause to identify the path. Small blue arrows nailed to trees serve as markers, though they can be moss-covered.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the lush tropical rainforest, intricate root systems, and the panoramic views from Lumley Hill Lookout. The dappled light filtering through the canopy also makes for great shots. +1
It can be challenging due to the uneven terrain and the need to focus on your footing. It's best to pause at designated spots or viewpoints to take photos safely.
Morning light often provides beautiful, soft illumination through the rainforest canopy. Late afternoon can also offer dramatic lighting, but ensure you finish before dark.
A smartphone is generally sufficient for capturing the beauty of the Blue Arrow Circuit. If you're serious about landscape photography, a camera with a wide-angle lens would be beneficial.
Lumley Hill Lookout is a prime spot for expansive views. Many hikers also capture close-ups of the unique flora and the challenging trail features.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💪 Fitness Enthusiasts
🌿 Nature Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Blue Arrow Circuit
The upper half of the circuit is noted for its steep edges and potentially confusing pathing, where animal tracks can sometimes appear as clear as the actual trail. This makes the Blue Arrow Circuit less suitable for casual walkers or those unfamiliar with off-trail navigation. It's a track that demands respect and careful footing, rewarding those who are up for a true adventure in the wilderness.
Recommendations for navigation include carrying a reliable map or GPS device, even though the circuit is within a conservation park. Informing someone of your hiking plans and expected return time is also a wise precaution. The effort involved in navigating this trail is often cited as part of its unique appeal, offering a sense of accomplishment upon completion.
The Rainforest Ecosystem
The feeling of being deep within the jungle is a common sentiment among visitors, with the sounds and sights of the rainforest creating an unforgettable experience. While the trail itself is challenging, the surrounding ecosystem provides a stunning backdrop and a sense of tranquility. It’s a chance to disconnect from urban life and reconnect with nature.
Despite its beauty, the trail's condition has been noted as needing maintenance, which can impact the experience of appreciating the rainforest. However, for those who are prepared for the trek, the Blue Arrow Circuit remains a highly rewarding way to explore this precious natural habitat.
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