Access to a world class peak on the doorstep of the Douglas shire with unrivalled stunning ocean and rainforest views will soon vanish following a recent development regarding a highly popular local trail.

In a blow to local, domestic, international hikers and adventure lovers Newsport understands the famed “Devils Thumb” peak is just weeks or months away from being permanently closed.

The decision to ban hikers from hiking to and reaching the bucketlist viewpoint on the trail comes as local tourism operator Backcountry Bliss suspends its guided hikes along the world class trail in line with local wishes.

“I was the first operator to apply for a permit for the Manjal Jimalji Trail and had to wait 40 days for Queensland Parks to check with the Traditional Owners for any objections due to cultural significance to obtain the permit,” company owner Jason Heffernan explained.

“Four years later I have just discovered the Eastern Yalanji people are seeking to protect the site by installing a Restricted Access Area around the Devil’s Thumb at the top of the trail which would prevent hikers from the thrill of being on top of that rock.
 
“I have spoken with Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation and knowing the Eastern Yalanji peoples’ wishes I do not feel it is right for the tour to continue, despite being able to legally operate it until the Restricted Access Area is declared.
 
“As a former guide at Uluru I was trained in cultural protocols and I respect the cultural significance of the site to the Eastern Yalanji people.
 
“Accessing the rock at the top of Manjal Jimalji is the payoff for the challenging 10-hour hike, so it is not worth operating the tour without it.
 
“I am the only operator with a permit for the trail and I have worked hard to build demand for this tour which was gaining strong momentum, especially with the international market who saw it as a bucket list hike in the world’s oldest rainforest.”

Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation Chair Michelle Friday said Manjal Jimalji is a sacred site.
 
“Eastern Yalanji people want to share their sacred country and culture with visitors but appreciating this culture also means protecting very sacred places such as the Devil’s Thumb,” she said.