Cableway Upgrade 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 - November 2026

Stage 2

November 2026 - June 2027

Stage 3

July 2027 - November 2027

Stage 1 - Now Completed

Smithfield Line Upgrade

July 2026 - November 2026

Stage 1 of the $85 million Skyrail Cairns Rainforest Cableway Upgrade is now complete.
Skyrail operated a loop experience between Kuranda Terminal and Barron Falls from Wednesday August 19th – Sunday November 1st (Inclusive). During that time Skyrail operated 5 days per week.
Shuttle bus services were available between Smithfield and Kuranda
Guests were 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

November 2026 - June 2027

From Wednesday, 4 November 2026, Stage 2 [Normal Operations] between Smithfield and Kuranda have officially commenced.
Skyrail will operate as usual between Smithfield and Kuranda.
During this unique transition period until mid 2027, guests will enjoy our new gondolas between Smithfield and Red Peak, before continuing with the original Skyrail experience for the remainder of their journey to Kuranda.

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.

Left to Right: Owner, Ken Chapman, General Manager Richard Berman-Hardman, Emily Chapyman and Doppelmayr General Manager

Stage 1 of the $85 million Skyrail Cairns Rainforest Cableway Upgrade is now complete. From Wednesday, 4 November 2026, Stage 2 [Normal Operations] between Smithfield and Kuranda have officially commenced.

The state-of-the-art new gondolas have been designed with ultimate passenger comfort, expansive views, and inclusivity in mind. They feature:

Improved space and comfort
Step-free floor-level boarding and wider entry doors
Panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows for more immersive rainforest views

These custom built gondolas are designed to elevate the guest experience and make the Wet Tropics World Heritage-listed rainforest more accessible and immersive than ever before.

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.

Register your Interest

They've glided over the tropical rainforest canopy for 30 years, carrying millions of smiles and creating countless memories.
These original Skyrail gondolas are icons, steeped in the history of Cairns' most beloved tourism experience.

Now, you can own a part of that story. A memento of discovery, connection, enjoyment, and a legacy of innovation.

This is a limited opportunity to take home a piece of Skyrail history.

Register your interest today and secure your piece of the journey