Queensland's new ecotourism trails
Action 2.8, Action Plan for Walking 2022–2024
Department/Agency: Department of Environment, Science and Innovation
Status: Long-term
Work with other agencies and partners to deliver the Queensland Ecotourism Trails program including the design and construction of sections of the Wangetti Trail and the strategic business case for the Paluma to Wallaman Falls Trail.
Overview
The first part of the Wangetti Trail spans 7.8km. It opened in September 2024. The trail connects Palm Cove to Ellis Beach.
The Paluma to Wallaman Falls Trail business case was finished in 2022. The next stage of planning work is underway.
Achievements
Under the Queensland EcoTourism Trails program, the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation is leading delivery of the Wangetti Trail and the proposed Paluma to Wallaman Falls Trail.
When complete, the Wangetti Trail will span 94 kilometres from Palm Cove to Port Douglas in Tropical North Queensland. The track will be suitable for walking and mountain biking. On 25 September 2024, the Queensland Government opened the first 7.8km of the trail, from Palm Cove to Ellis Beach.
Wangetti Trail's construction and operation will create 150 jobs. It will bring in up to $390 million to the local economy over the trail's lifespan. It has been codesigned with Traditional Owners. Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation has also engaged councils, local communities, and the private sector to develop the trail and ecotourism.
The proposed 125km Paluma to Wallaman Falls Trail is another project under the EcoTourism trails program. It is for walking and mountain biking. The business case was finished in 2022.
People walking and riding mountain bikes will be able to follow the traditional language and storylines of the Warrgamay and Gugu Badhun people.
Next steps
Planning and design for the next stage of the Wangetti Trail is underway. In 2025, construction for the Ellis Beach to Wangetti section will commence.
Investigative works for the Paluma to Wallaman Falls Trail have started.
More information
Find out more and learn about:
- Last updated
- 28 January 2025