Mackay: Home of the New Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Park
Mackay is quickly becoming a must-visit cycling destination thanks to its brand new Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Park. This park offers an incredible network of trails that are already attracting attention, with Rocky Trail Entertainment choosing it as a venue for their popular Fox Superflow® and Pump & Flow competitions. The local mountain biking community is vibrant, and the new park is set to further boost the sport in the region.
Adventure seekers, wildlife warriors and early adopters flock to this pretty pocket. Why? A few days spent hiking, camping and mountain biking here will spoil you for life. Discover jaw-dropping gorges, next-level national parks, thriving wildlife and the longest stretch of sub-tropical rainforest in Queensland.
If you’re heading to Mackay to race with Rocky Trail or simply to explore the trails, we highly recommend extending your stay! Our team has been checking out the area, and there’s a huge variety of activities to enjoy beyond the bike park. Here are our top ideas:
- Mackay: Home of the New Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Park
- Spot a Platypus
- Experience Forest Flying at Finch Hatton Gorge
- Hike the Finch Hatton Gorge Trails
- Explore Eungella National Park
- Swim at Bluewater Lagoon
- Discover the Pioneer Valley
- Great Barrier Reef Day Trip
- Camping in Eungella National Park
- Visit the Sugar Shed
Here are some ideas to experience pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, lush rainforests and warm hospitality in the breathtaking coastal paradise of Mackay!
Spot a Platypus
Just a short drive from Finch Hatton, Broken River in Eungella National Park is considered one of the best places in the world to reliably spot the elusive platypus in the wild. Dawn or dusk are the best times to see these unique creatures from purpose-built viewing platforms. More information is here…
Experience Forest Flying at Finch Hatton Gorge
Get a unique perspective of the pristine rainforest by gliding through the canopy on an overhead cable and pulley system. Suspended up to 25 meters above the forest floor, it’s a serene and educational eco-tourism experience. More information is here…
Hike the Finch Hatton Gorge Trails
Beyond the mountain biking, Finch Hatton Gorge offers beautiful hiking trails leading to emerald pools and tumbling cascades. The Araluen Cascades track (2.8km return, 1-1.5hr) and the more challenging Wheel of Fire track (4.2km return, 1.5-2hr) are popular options. More information is here…
Explore Eungella National Park
Finch Hatton Gorge is part of the larger Eungella National Park. Take time to explore more of this ancient rainforest, with its misty trails, diverse birdlife (including the endemic Eungella Honeyeater), and stunning lookouts like Sky Window. More information is here…
Swim at Bluewater Lagoon
If you’re heading into Mackay City, the Bluewater Lagoon is a fantastic free, stinger-free swimming facility overlooking the Pioneer River. It’s equivalent to three 50-meter swimming pools, perfect for a refreshing dip on a warm day. More information is here…
Discover the Pioneer Valley
The Pioneer Valley, where Finch Hatton is located, is known for its lush cane fields and rural charm. Take a scenic drive through the valley, stopping at local towns and perhaps visiting Greenmount Homestead for a glimpse into the region’s history. More information is here…
Great Barrier Reef Day Trip
While a bit further afield, Mackay is a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Consider a full-day tour to a coral cay like Mackay Coral Cay for snorkeling, swimming, and experiencing the wonders of the reef. More information about a Mackay-based reef tour is here…
Camping in Eungella National Park
For those who enjoy spending time in nature, consider camping at Broken River or Fern Flat camping areas within Eungella National Park. It’s a great way to fully immerse yourself in the rainforest environment and increase your chances of seeing nocturnal wildlife. More information is here…
Visit the Sugar Shed
The Sarina Sugar Shed is a true paddock-to-plate food experience that celebrates the rich history of sugar cane farming in the Mackay region. It’s located about 37km south of Mackay and about 1 hour away from the Finch Hatton Trails.
Enjoy a one-hour guided tour and learn how sugar cane is grown, farmed and processed. The tour includes tasting of sugar cane juice, plus tastings of our award-winning liqueurs (from our onsite boutique distillery), chutneys and sauces made onsite, homemade non-alcoholic ginger beer, and freshly-spun fairy floss. Open Monday to Sunday from 9.00 am to 4.00 pm, with scheduled tours at 9.30am, 11.00am, 12.30pm and 2.00pm. More information here…
