Upgrade Project Skyrail 2.0

UPGRADE PROJECT 2026 – 2027

Detailed design for Skyrail 2.0 is well underway.

Cableway construction works will begin in stages starting from July 2026 with some temporary closures. However, Skyrail will continue to operate in an adapted capacity throughout most of the project.

Upgrade Overview

As Skyrail Rainforest Cableway reaches 30 years of operation, we are embarking on an extensive $85 million upgrade project.

Locally owned and operated by the Chapman family, the pioneering, multi award-winning Cairns attraction will undergo one of the most significant private sector tourism infrastructure investments in Northern Australia’s history to modernise the experience and maintain its deep commitment to environmental stewardship.

This project aims to replace the existing cableway infrastructure and all gondolas, improving the accessibility of Skyrail, as well as providing a quieter, smoother, and enhanced rainforest experience for our guests.

Stage 1

July 2026 - October 2026

Stage 2

October 2026 - June 2027

Stage 3

July 2027 - November 2027

Stage 1

Smithfield Line Upgrade

July 2026 - October 2026

Skyrail will be closed from Monday July 20th to Tuesday August 18th (inclusive) to facilitate a major upgrade on the Smithfield line.
Skyrail will operate a loop experience between Kuranda Terminal and Barron Falls from Wednesday August 19th – Sunday October 25th (Inclusive). During this time Skyrail will operate 5 days per week, boarding between 10:00am and 3:30pm daily.
Skyrail will have shuttle bus services available between Smithfield and Kuranda
Guests are able to experience the following at Barron Falls:
- Complimentary ranger-guided tours
- Interpretive Displays
- The Edge Lookout
- Historical Precinct
- Boardwalks and Lookouts

Stage 2

Normal Operations

October 2026 - June 2027

Skyrail will operate as usual between Smithfield and Kuranda.
New, upgraded gondolas will be in use between Smithfield and Red Peak.

Stage 3

Kuranda Line Upgrade

July 2027 - November 2027

Skyrail’s Kuranda Line between Red Peak and Kuranda Terminal will be closed as it undergoes a major upgrade.
Skyrail will operate round trip experiences between Smithfield Terminal and Red Peak with new, upgraded gondolas.
Skyrail will have shuttle bus services available between Smithfield and Kuranda.

*All dates and details are subject to change.

New 6-Seat Gondolas

Step Free Floor Level Boarding

Panoramic Floor-to-Ceiling Windows

Larger, More Accessible Gondolas with Folding Seats

Revitalised Stations

More Efficient Drive System

Whisper Quiet Componentry

Technical Partner

Europe-based global cableway leader Doppelmayr Group, which is experienced working in national parks and other sensitive environments, has been appointed to spearhead the project.

With over a century of experience, and almost 16,000 lifts constructed worldwide, Doppelmayr provide state-of-the-art aerial transport solutions that enhance accessibility and foster connections in mountain resorts, urban areas, and tourism attractions around the world.

Environmental Commitment

True to Skyrail’s sustainability ethos, all upgrades have been meticulously planned to preserve the integrity of the ancient rainforest the cableway showcases, mirroring the complexity of the original build over three decades ago.

All works will be focused on replacing and enhancing infrastructure above ground level, leaving existing footings and building pads in place.