An increase in vandalism at Flagstaff Hill recently has left local walkers disappointed about the effect the state of the popular trail is having on tourism in the region.

Several Port Douglas locals have contacted Newsport expressing concern about the appearance of the walking trail, which runs from Four Mile Beach to the top of Flagstaff Hill.

The damage includes broken fencing and temporary warning tape placed in several spots around the trail by Douglas Shire Council authorities.

Vandalism at the walking trail has been a long-running issue, with Newsport regularly reporting the issue across the past decade.