Upgrade Project Skyrail 2.0

UPGRADE PROJECT 2026 – 2027

Construction works for Skyrail 2.0 are underway.

Skyrail will continue to operate throughout most of the project with some temporary closures.

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.

Kuranda to Barron Falls Loop Experience
(Temporary Change in Operations)

Skyrail will be operating a loop between Kuranda Terminal and Barron Falls from 19th August to 25th October (5 days a week, Wednesday-Sunday, boarding between 10:00 and 15:30) as part of Stage 1 of our upgrade project. This experience will last for approximately 1 hour, including time at Barron Falls Station, where guests will be able to enjoy the following activities and experiences:

Ranger Guided Tours

Join ranger-guided tours around Barron Falls / Dindin. Discover breathtaking rainforest scenery and unique ecology as our Rangers share stories of Indigenous heritage, pioneering history, and intimate knowledge of this remarkable environment.

Interpretive Displays

Discover Barron Falls’ interpretive displays at our Rainforest Interpretation Centre, showcasing the Wet Tropics’ diverse flora and fauna, and exploring the history and evolution of life on Earth through ancient plants and unique animal species.

Three men stand together, smiling as the man in the middle holds out a phone into the foreground

Audio Guide App

Skyrail’s Audio Guide App will immerse you in the ancient stories of the Djabuganydji people, offering insights into how they have lived in harmony with this land for generations.

Historical Precinct

Step into the historical precinct at Barron Falls / Dindin, where restored machinery and haulage trolleys reveal the pioneering history of one of Queensland’s first hydro-electric schemes.

The Edge Lookout

Take in stunning views of Barron Falls from our lookouts, including the spectacular Edge Lookout, and enjoy the dramatic cascade and lush rainforest scenery.

Between 20th July 2026 and 18th August 2026, Skyrail Rainforest Cableway will be closed for maintenance
*All dates are subject to change