Visiting the Wangetti Trail safely

Getting there and getting around

Parking is available at each end of the Trail- at Palm Cove near the Palm Cove Jetty, and at Ellis Beach.

If leaving from Palm Cove Jetty, follow the signage and footpath markers from Williams Esplanade, down Cedar Road and to the Captain Cook Highway. Cross the highway safely using the pedestrian refuge. The Trail continues north from this point.

Parking at Ellis Beach is located just north of the Bar and Grill. The Trail starts just south of the Bar and Grill.

Wheelchair accessibility

There are no wheelchair-accessible facilities or tracks on the Wangetti Trail.

Staying safe

Hiking or mountain biking the Wangetti Trail is challenging during the summer months between October and March. Conditions are extremely hot and humid at this time of year which increases the risk of heat related injuries.

• Bring at least 3 litres of drinking water. There is no drinking water along the Trail.
• There are no public toilets along the trail between Ellis Beach and Palm Cove.
• Watch for steep drops beside the Trail. Take extra care in these sections and supervise children closely.
• Slow down and take care when riding over rock culverts. There may be sharp drop-offs on either side.
• Tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back.
• Be patient with others along the trail and wait until you can pass safely.
• Always wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear when riding.
• If you encounter a snake, don’t handle or provoke it. Wait for it to move away.
• Dingoes and wild dogs have been seen in this area. Do not approach a dingo or wild dog.

When the wet season starts, high rainfall results in rapidly rising creeks. Extreme weather events are also more likely during the wet season. QPWS strongly recommends careful consideration of choosing to undertake the Wangetti Trail hike during the during the summer months.

Take extra care in wet conditions

• Avoid riding during or immediately after wet weather
• Remember, the Trail will be slippery when wet.
• Creeks can rise rapidly in heavy rain. Never cross flooded bridges or gullies.
• Avoid skidding and sliding around turns to minimise Trail damage.

For more information, please read the guidelines on safety in parks and forests.

Northern Queensland is Croc Country

Crocodiles can be found in any waterway, including rivers, creeks and beaches. But you can enjoy wild places without risking a crocodile attack.

• Keep out of the water.
• Stay more than five metres away from the water’s edge.
• Keep a sturdy object between yourself and the water.

Always remember to Be Crocwise in Croc Country.

Before you visit

Essentials to bring

Hikers and mountain bikers need to be self-reliant and self-sufficient. Pack essential equipment and bushwalking gear including:

• adequate water-carrying containers, as each person will need at least 3 litres of water
• sturdy, reliable footwear
• hat, sunscreen and sunglasses
• helmet if mountain biking
• basic first-aid kit including space blanket
• insect repellent and clothing to avoid insect bites

Opening hours

When to visit

Access into may be restricted from time to time due to park management or safety concerns. Visitors should check park alerts for the latest information on access, closures and conditions.

Please check park alerts in the weeks and days leading up to your visit.

Pets

Domestic animals are prohibited on the Wangetti Trail.

Climate and weather

Daytime temperatures and humidity can be high at any time of the year.

Heavy rain can fall at any time of the year, causing creek levels to rise and fall rapidly. Conditions may improve after a short wait. Crossing creeks requires extreme care.

April to September are the best months for hiking. This period avoids the times of year that are very wet or very dry. Hiking the Wangetti Trail during the summer months between October to March is considerably challenging with extremely hot and humid conditions and heavy rainfall.