The Wangetti Trail will be Queensland’s first purpose-built dual use walking and mountain biking track in a national park and one of Australia’s leading adventure-based ecotourism experiences, attracting visitors on an international scale.
Spanning approximately 94 kilometres (6 days/5 nights on foot) from Palm Cove to Port Douglas in Tropical North Queensland, the Wangetti Trail will showcase the stunning coastal, hinterland, and Wet Tropics scenery of Djabugay Nation country.
The first stage of the trail—Palm Cove to Ellis Beach—is now open, offering a 7.8-kilometre stretch for hiking and mountain biking. When fully operational, the trail will take six days and five nights on foot, providing visitors with a choice of public camping facilities and premium eco-accommodation options along the route.
This project is expected to attract thousands of visitors annually and generate significant economic benefits, injecting up to $388.8 million into the local economy. More than 150 new local jobs will be created during construction and operation, fostering sustainable, long-term business opportunities for locals, Traditional Owners, and future generations.
The trail’s design aligns with Queensland’s Ecotourism Plan for Protected Areas 2023–2028, which prioritises sustainable tourism in national and marine parks. Facilities will be delivered under the department’s Best Practice Ecotourism Development Guidelines, ensuring environmental preservation while supporting cultural heritage and biodiversity.
The Wangetti Trail has been co-designed in extensive consultation with Traditional Owners, ensuring cultural sensitivity and environmental stewardship. The project spans three national parks, a World Heritage area, two local government regions, and multiple native title lands, emphasising a collaborative and inclusive approach.
Photos: QLD Government
The Wangetti Trail will be delivered in three key sections:
- Wangetti South: 33km of walking and mountain biking trails from Palm Cove to Wangetti.
- Wangetti North: 54km extending from Wangetti to Mowbray River.
- Mowbray North: A 7km connection leading into Port Douglas.
Once complete, the trail will cater to a range of skill levels, with Grade 3 (medium difficulty) walking tracks and “more difficult” mountain biking routes, offering both accessibility and challenge for adventure seekers.
To minimise environmental disturbance, the trail’s alignment has been carefully planned, utilising existing tracks where possible and avoiding sensitive areas identified by ecologists and Traditional Owners. Emergency access points will be established to ensure safety for rangers, park operators, and visitors.
The Wangetti Trail is on track to be fully operational by late 2026, dependent on environmental approvals and weather conditions. As Queensland continues to cement its reputation as a leader in ecotourism, the Wangetti Trail will set a new benchmark for adventure-based experiences—connecting people with country, culture, and breathtaking natural landscapes.
More information: desi.qld.gov.au
