Mount Paulma, Magnetic Island
📅 Saturday 17 January 2026 8:30 am
📍 Location: Magnetic Island
About this event
Mount Paluma (Magnetic Island) summit walk
Leader: Luen Warneke
Start time: Saturday, 8:30 am
Location: Magnetic Island National Park
Distance: ~6 km return
Duration: Allow 4 hours
Grade: 4 – moderate to difficult
Terrain: Steep, rocky, overgrown sections; off-track navigation
Conditions: Rain forecast – track likely wet and slippery
RSVP by emailing [email protected] for meetup details.
Mount Paluma (322 m) is one of only two officially named mountains on Magnetic Island, yet it remains largely unknown and rarely visited. This walk follows remnants of an old ridgeline route that has long since been reclaimed by vegetation, making it an engaging mix of faint pad, rock steps, stacked stone retaining walls, and off-track navigation.
The ascent is steady and sometimes steep, passing grass trees and open woodland before climbing to a saddle below the summit. Although the historic track is no longer maintained, evidence of earlier construction is still visible, adding a strong sense of place and history to the walk.
From the summit area, walkers are rewarded with expansive views across Nelly Bay, Townsville, Alma Bay, Horseshoe Bay, and out across the Coral Sea. A rock cairn marks the high point, with nearby boulders offering excellent vantage points for a short break if conditions allow.
With rain forecast, expect slippery rock, muddy sections, and slower progress. Careful foot placement will be essential, and walking poles are recommended. The walk will proceed at a steady, conservative pace suitable for the conditions.
Requirements:
2 L water per person
Snacks
Long pants and long-sleeve shirt
Rain jacket optional
Hat and sunscreen
Insect repellent
Good grip footwear
Navigation tools
First aid kit and PLB
This is a Grade 4 walk involving off-track travel and uneven terrain. Participants should be comfortable with rough ground, variable conditions, and changing weather. Leave No Trace principles apply – please carry out all rubbish.
Leader: Luen Warneke
Start time: Saturday, 8:30 am
Location: Magnetic Island National Park
Distance: ~6 km return
Duration: Allow 4 hours
Grade: 4 – moderate to difficult
Terrain: Steep, rocky, overgrown sections; off-track navigation
Conditions: Rain forecast – track likely wet and slippery
RSVP by emailing [email protected] for meetup details.
Mount Paluma (322 m) is one of only two officially named mountains on Magnetic Island, yet it remains largely unknown and rarely visited. This walk follows remnants of an old ridgeline route that has long since been reclaimed by vegetation, making it an engaging mix of faint pad, rock steps, stacked stone retaining walls, and off-track navigation.
The ascent is steady and sometimes steep, passing grass trees and open woodland before climbing to a saddle below the summit. Although the historic track is no longer maintained, evidence of earlier construction is still visible, adding a strong sense of place and history to the walk.
From the summit area, walkers are rewarded with expansive views across Nelly Bay, Townsville, Alma Bay, Horseshoe Bay, and out across the Coral Sea. A rock cairn marks the high point, with nearby boulders offering excellent vantage points for a short break if conditions allow.
With rain forecast, expect slippery rock, muddy sections, and slower progress. Careful foot placement will be essential, and walking poles are recommended. The walk will proceed at a steady, conservative pace suitable for the conditions.
Requirements:
2 L water per person
Snacks
Long pants and long-sleeve shirt
Rain jacket optional
Hat and sunscreen
Insect repellent
Good grip footwear
Navigation tools
First aid kit and PLB
This is a Grade 4 walk involving off-track travel and uneven terrain. Participants should be comfortable with rough ground, variable conditions, and changing weather. Leave No Trace principles apply – please carry out all rubbish.
👥 Attending: 2
❤️ Interested: 8