Best Free Walking Trails in Townsville, Queensland

by | Jul 27, 2025 | Tours & Attractions

Free Walking Trails Townsville

Looking for free things to do in Townsville? Townsville’s walking trails are the perfect way to enjoy the city’s natural beauty, history, and culture. From panoramic views atop Castle Hill to heritage trails and waterfront strolls along The Strand, these self-guided walks suit all ages and fitness levels.

Quick Picks: Best Free Walking Trails in Townsville

  • For the best views: Castle Hill Goat Track (720m) – a short but steep climb with panoramic views over Magnetic Island.

  • For a relaxed riverside walk: Ross River Parkway Aplins Circuit (5.3km) – perfect for an easy stroll or jog.

  • For history buffs: Early Townsville Heritage Trail – 25 historic sites in the city centre.

  • For art lovers: Townsville Street Art Walking Trail – discover vibrant murals and laneway art.

  • For a classic waterfront stroll: The Strand Boardwalk (4.4km return) – enjoy cafes, sculptures, and ocean breezes.

Castle Hill Walking Tracks – Iconic Townsville Lookout

Rising 286 metres above sea level, Castle Hill is one of Townsville’s most visited landmarks. Popular with locals and visitors alike, the hill offers breathtaking 360-degree views over Townsville, Cleveland Bay, and Magnetic Island.

There are multiple walking tracks of varying lengths and difficulty levels. Here are some of the options:

  • Goat Track – 720m (Hillside Crescent to Castle Hill carpark)
    Short and steep, this is a favourite for a quick workout and incredible views.

  • Cudtheringa Track – 760m (1.5km total from Kennedy Street via Goat Track)
    A scenic route with glimpses of the coastline.

  • West Ridge Track – 940m (2.2km total from William Street)
    A more gradual climb with sweeping views of the city and ocean.

  • Erythrina Track – 500m (1.8km total from Grange Court)
    A shaded option ideal for a slower-paced walk.

  • Triandra Track – 850m (1.6km via James Street)
    Links to other tracks, perfect for those wanting a longer, varied walk.

  • Dianella Track – 1.1km (from Church Street to Castle Hill carpark)
    A steady climb with great photo opportunities along the way.

  • Maiden Hair Track – 1.2km (1.9km total via Church Street)
    Ideal for a longer hike that connects multiple paths.

Tip: Sunrise and sunset are the most popular times to walk Castle Hill – the views over Magnetic Island are spectacular.

Townsville’s 10,000 Steps Walkways

Need to hit your daily step goal? Townsville has several signed 10,000 Steps walkways and circuits, ranging from riverside strolls to scenic coastal tracks:

  • Ross River Parkway Aplins Circuit – 5.3km (approx. 6,625 steps)

  • Rowes Bay to Pallarenda – 4km one way (approx. 5,000 steps)

  • Wetlands Circuit – 5.8km (approx. 7,325 steps)

  • Anderson Botanic Garden Circuit – 1.5km (approx. 1,942 steps)

  • Riverway Circuit – 3.7km (approx. 4,625 steps)

Looking for more of a challenge? Combine these with a Castle Hill climb (distances above).

Heritage & Cemetery Walking Trails – Discover Townsville’s History

Explore Townsville’s rich past with a self-guided heritage or cemetery tour. These trails highlight the city’s colonial architecture, colourful characters, and early stories:

  • Civic Pride Trail – 24 points of interest (approx. 30 mins brisk or longer at a stroll)

  • Early Townsville Trail – 25 points of interest (approx. 30 mins brisk)

  • South Townsville & Port Trail – 20 points of interest (50–85 mins depending on route)

  • West End Cemetery Trails –

    • Life, Death and Memorialisation in Early Townsville

    • Townsville Women

    • The Publican’s Trail

Maps and brochures are available via the City of Townsville website.

Townsville Street Art Walking Trail

See a different side of Townsville on a self-guided street art tour. Discover vibrant murals by local and international artists as you wander through laneways, alleys, and the city streets.

The Strand – Townsville’s Scenic Waterfront Walk

No trip to Townsville is complete without a walk along The Strand. This 4.4km return walking and cycling path stretches from the Breakwater Marina to the Rockpool at Kissing Point. Along the way, you’ll pass:

  • Permanent sculptures and art installations

  • The man-made Townsville Strand Waterfall

  • Cafes, playgrounds, and swimming areas

For a longer stroll, continue into Jezzine Barracks and along the Kissing Point Boardwalk for more coastal views and historic sites.

Plan Your Townsville Adventure

These free walking trails are the perfect way to explore Townsville, from its breathtaking natural landmarks to its fascinating history and art scene.

Book your stay at Mariners North Holiday Apartments – perfectly located near The Strand and close to many of these walking trails, for your next Townsville, Queensland getaway.

Walking trail information courtesy of City of Townsville.
Image credit: Tourism and Events Queensland.