With sporting clubs, gyms and swimming pools all closed, going for a walk remains a safe exercise option as long you adhere to the government's strict social distancing measures.
If you're not self-isolating or unwell, Council is encouraging you to make use of the many walking and cycling tracks that are available throughout the region.
However, you must practise social distancing, keep up good hygiene practices, and wash your hands when you get home.
Below are a list of popular tracks you might want to try.
· The Arrows (Mt Whitfield Conservation Park)
- Red Arrow: Remains open but with new restrictions to help maintain the government's social distancing measures. The Red Arrow is now a one-way circuit, with entry from the western side, behind the Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre. This 1.5km circuit includes steep sections, lots of steps and two open viewing areas overlooking Cairns city and north towards the airport. The track is suitable for people with no prior bushwalking experience.
- Yellow Arrow: A 1.9km formed track with many steps and takes about 1.5 hour return.
- Blue Arrow: A very steep, 6km track that takes about 4-5 hours return. It is a rugged bush track with steep climbs and some obstacles. A moderate level of fitness is required and some bushwalking experience is recommended.
- Green Arrow: A very steep 3km track, which starts toward the top of the Blue Arrow loop and branches off toward Brinsmead, ending at Whitfield. It takes about 3 hours return and contains steep slopes and obstacles such as tree roots, rocks and fallen debris. A moderate level of fitness is required and some bushwalking experience is recommended.
· Earl Hill: A 2km trail that features a great forest setting and is suited to all bushwalking levels. The entrance is off Roberts Road in the Bluewater Estate (Trinity Park).
· Ivan Evans walking track: This 2.4 km (return) track winds through dense rainforest and vineforest behind Bayview Heights and climbs gradually to a lookout. The track starts from Ellen Close and continues to Toogood Road. It is relatively easy to walk, but sturdy footwear is recommended, as some sections can be slippery and steep.
· Glacier Rock hike: Starting from Stoney Creek in Kamerunga, this walk (about 2.2km) up to Glacier Rock features panoramic views extending out over Stoney Creek Gorge and Mt Whitfield. Suited for a family hike (bring plenty of water and a snack), the children will love the footbridge over the Kuranda railway line.
· Cattana Wetlands: An 80-hectare nature conservation park at Smithfield, it has a 420m boardwalk through feather palm forest, freshwater and salt water lakes and abundant plant and birdlife.
· Suburban cycling and walking tracks: There are a range of paths and cycle ways through the city. Unless otherwise marked, the cycle ways are also walking paths. For a full range of maps, visit: www.cairns.qld.gov.au/facilities-sport-leisure/cycling-walking-fitness/cycle
Visit Council's dedicated coronavirus webpage for the latest information: cairns.qld.gov.au/council/covid19
