Forts Walking Track (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Forts Walking Track?
What makes it 62% Kids-Friendly: Kids enjoy spotting koalas and exploring gun emplacements, but steep stairs, lack of toilets and full sun require strong supervision, water and hats for a 2 h walk.
Positives:
- Wildlife spotting: Koalas and rock wallabies often appear near the track, delighting kids.
- Historical interest: WWII gun emplacements and tunnels spark curiosity and play.
Challenges:
- Steep and uneven sections: Some parts have rock steps and loose gravel; hold younger children’s hands.
- Limited facilities: No toilets or water taps on the main track; carry water, snacks, and sunscreen.
What is Forts Walking Track?
- A 4-kilometre heritage circuit on Magnetic Island within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, linking WWII-era coastal defense installations
- A trail sculpted through eucalyptus woodland, granite outcrops and rocky headlands that highlights the region’s natural geology and vegetation
- A preserved military precinct featuring original gun emplacements, signal stations, concrete bunkers and interpretive signage
What is so special about Forts Walking Track for with kids?
- Easy 4 km return hike with wildlife sightings
- Short 1 km Arthur Bay detour for little legs
- Beach play and snorkeling at Florence Bay
- Explore WWII forts and tunnels
- Post-walk gelato reward in Horseshoe Bay
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A 4 km return track plus scenic breaks and beach play fits into a half-day outing for young kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Forts Walking Track
Full Forts Walking Track:
Walk the 4 km return trail to WWII gun emplacements and panoramic lookouts.
Tip: Plan a snack break at the mid-way viewpoint and let kids explore the old tunnels.
Arthur Bay side-walk:
Take the 1 km return detour to a small lookout over Arthur Bay.
Tip: This gentle 20 min return walk suits younger children; bring binoculars for wildlife spotting.
Beach play & snorkel at Florence Bay:
Follow the Wumbu track down 3 km (one-way) to a sandy bay for swimming and snorkeling.
Tip: Bring life jackets and hire snorkel sets at Horseshoe Bay Water Sports (from AU$15 per set).
Ice-cream at Adele’s Café:
Reward the family with gelato or ice-cream scoops in Horseshoe Bay.
Tip: Try local sorbet flavors; the café opens by 10 am for a post-walk treat.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Forts Walking Track
- Start early: Begin before 9 am for cooler temperatures and quieter paths.
- Pack light snacks: Use lookout benches for breaks; bring easy-to-eat fruit and water bottles.
Reviews of Forts Walking Track
Iduna Bink
Easy peasy walk. The way up is uphill but totally doable if you’re in good/normal health. On the way, we spotted two koalas, so cute to see! 🐨 At the top, we were rewarded with a beautiful view from the fort. We didn’t continue to the bay, but it already felt worth it! Make sure to bring some water or an empty bottle, there’s a refill station along the trail. 💧
kerry hallatt
What a fabulous day out! After walking the track and seeing all the war relics not to mention many koalas we arrived at the fort. The view was amazing! There are steps going down to Florence Bay and an easy walk to see Radical and Arthur before walking up the road to the start. This is a must do for your time in Magnetic Island!
Micaela Dannenberg
Very nice place if you want to see koalas, I recommend go in the morning because is a dry place, so the temperature there can be a little annoying. Also, try to look up because the koalas are in the trees. The walk is 1:30 hour, is not too much but if you want, you can do others walks in more time. I went by car so I can’t give information of the transport in the island.
Fan
If you want to have a chance to see koalas in the wild, this is your shot! The walking track is very easy and can be anyone with reasonable fitness. (Only at the end of the trail you can walk up to some viewpoints but not necessary. It is beautiful though) We were lucky and were able to see a koala at the very end of the trail before the stairs that go up on the right side.
Lerong Lin
One of the best walks on magnetic Island. The tracks are well maintained and relatively flat until the last part before the fort. It took us about an hour and half from the car park to the top of the ford, while taking our time to explore all the historical sites on the way. There were a lot of interesting fauna and flora on the way, and the highlight would be the Koala casually enjoying some Euc...
When is the best time to visit Forts Walking Track (Great Barrier Reef Area, Australia)?
Visit from April to October to avoid the wet season. Start before 9 am year-round to beat the heat and crowds.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Snorkel gear hire (4 sets) | AUD 60 |
| Ice-cream treats (4 scoops) | AUD 28 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 88 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Forts Walking Track
Address: 180 Horseshoe Bay Rd, Horseshoe Bay QLD 4819, Australia
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