Townsville, in Queensland, Australia, offers a variety of scenic drives in its surroundings, showcasing the region's diverse landscapes, including rugged landscapes, tropical rainforests, epic waterfalls, and dreamy islands. Some of the notable scenic drives include: The Cardwell Forest Drive, a 26 km loop that takes you through the Cardwell Forest, with stops at Cardwell Lookout, Attie Creek Falls, Dead Horse Creek, and Cardwell Spa Pool. Another option is the Ingham and Wallaman drive, heading 112 km north of Townsville to Ingham, and then an additional 51 km to Wallaman, where you can experience the 800m return Banggurru track close to the camping area.
For history enthusiasts, a day trip to the historic town of Charters Towers is recommended. Located approximately 114 km from Townsville, Charters Towers is an Australian outback town and former gold rush site. While not a day trip, the 3.5-hour drive from Townsville to Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays offers access to this popular destination for visitors on an East Coast of Australia road trip. These drives showcase the best of North Queensland's natural wonders, making them ideal for those looking to explore the region's beauty and hidden gems.