New 6-day adventure trail coming to Tropical North Queensland

Queensland’s newest adventure trail promises an unforgettable journey from Palm Cove to Port Douglas.

Adventure seekers, take note: Queensland is gearing up to unveil one of its most ambitious ecotourism projects yet – the Wangetti Trail. Spanning an epic 94 kilometres from Palm Cove to Port Douglas, this multi-use trail is poised to become a must-do for hikers, mountain bikers and nature enthusiasts alike.

What is the Wangetti Trail?

The trail traverses a culturally significant area, following ancient routes once used by the Djabuganydji, Yirrganydji, Nyagali, Buluwanydji and Guluy people as traditional walking tracks through Country for connection, trade, celebration and cultural practices.

Designed with sustainability at its core, the Wangetti Trail will wind through the breathtaking coastal landscapes, ancient rainforests and rugged bushland of Macalister Range National Park and the World Heritage-listed Wet Tropics of Queensland, offering adventurers front-row seats to Queensland’s diverse natural beauty.

Named after the small coastal town it intersects, the trail promises an immersive experience, blending world-class outdoor activities with environmental conservation.

A trail like no other

Wangetti Rex Lookout — The trail is named after the small coastal town it intersects. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Unlike other trails, the Wangetti Trail is more than just a scenic route. Once fully operational, the trail will be an ecotourism masterpiece, featuring purpose-built camping areas and eco-accommodation that highlight the rich cultural heritage of the region.

For mountain bikers, dedicated tracks will offer thrilling rides through diverse terrains, while hikers can relish the tranquillity of less-travelled paths, with panoramic views that will redefine Instagram-worthy moments.

A local boost

Backed by the Queensland Government, the $47.1 million Wangetti Trail is set to elevate the state’s reputation as a premier ecotourism destination. The project is expected to create 150 new local jobs, support long-term business opportunities for locals, Traditional Owners and their future generations, and attract thousands of visitors to Tropical North Queensland annually, all while promoting sustainable travel practices.

When can you hit the trail?

Palm Cove jetty in tropical North Queensland — The Wangetti Trail begins at Palm Cove jetty. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

The first stage of the Wangetti Trail, a 7.8-kilometre track from Palm Cove to Ellis Beach – one of the best beaches in Cairns – opened in September 2024.

Construction is underway on the next section of the Wangetti Trail with stages opening progressively. Once fully operational, adventurers can tackle the entire 94-kilometre trail or choose from shorter sections tailored to varying fitness levels and interests.

Protecting the park

This really applies to any trail or national park, regardless of whether it’s World Heritage-listed or not, but please be respectful and aware of the environment and your impact on it.

Take all your rubbish when you leave.
Pets are not permitted on the trail.
Fires are strictly prohibited.
Stick to the designated trail to prevent erosion, environmental damage and confusion for other hikers.
All plant and animal life is protected – don’t disturb plants and animals, whether living or dead.
Don’t feed the wildlife.

For those craving an adventure that treads lightly on the planet while delivering an unforgettable experience, the Wangetti Trail is set to be Queensland’s next big thing.

Stay tuned – Queensland’s ultimate adventure trail is just around the corner.

From the moment you arrive in Moreton Bay, stunning natural vistas, fresh and tasty dining, history and more invite you to stay and play.

Untouched national park, mirror-like lagoons and endless stretches of beaches all make Moreton Bay experiences feel like you’ve stumbled across a secret Queenslanders collectively vowed not to tell. Yet it’s easily accessible. Explore further and discover hinterland farms, ancient rainforest, fresh seafood and more: there’s something on offer for every pace, interest and generation.

Just 20 minutes from Brisbane Airport, it’s hard to believe how underrated this Queensland getaway is. Here’s your ultimate guide to rediscover play with unmissable experiences in Moreton Bay.

1. G’Day Adventure Tours, Bribie Island

G’Day Adventure Tours’ Sea to Table Experience should be your first agenda item in Moreton Bay. Take a 4WD journey through the sandy tracks of Bribie Island’s beaches to the still, glassy waters of the island’s lagoons. Glide over perfect replicas of paperbarks and fluffy blue clouds mirrored in the lagoon waters in your kayak. Listen as native birdsong echoes around you.

Then, it’s on to Fort Bribie. During the Second World War, these concrete bunkers – now slowly being enveloped by the dunes – were the last line of defence for Moreton Bay.

End the day with a sun-dappled beach picnic of locally caught Queensland prawns and famous Moreton Bay bugs. As you head home, watch the dolphins playfully dart in and out of the surf.

2. Morgan’s Seafood at Scarborough

Right on the Scarborough Boat Harbour, you’ll find Morgan’s Seafood . Between the luxury yachts, you’ll also spot trawlers and fishermen delivering their day’s catch right to Morgan’s. The family-owned and operated spot is one of the best places to try the region’s eponymous Moreton Bay bug. Or, sample more of the area’s direct-from-the-boat seafood fresh at their oyster and sushi bar. If you’re lucky, your visit might coincide with a day they’ve caught tuna.

Picture fish caught that day, prepared and then served to you as fresh sashimi as the sun sets over the unique silhouette of the Glasshouse Mountains.

3. Woorim Beach, Bribie Island

On Bribie’s eastern coastline, you’ll find Woorim Beach : aka the closest surf beach to Brisbane. Find a place on the sand by the patrolled area or wander further south to find a quiet spot and while the day away between the shaded dunes, the pages of your book and the peaceful sound of rolling waves.

Ask any local where to grab lunch, and they’ll direct you to Bribie Island Surf Club Bistro . Tuck into a fresh, local seafood platter, just metres from the beach.

4. D’Aguilar National Park

D’Aguilar National Park is a 40,000-hectare slice of greenery that stretches from urban Brisbane right up to Woodford (home of the Woodford Folk Festival). The vast expanse of park is home to ancient rainforests, eucalypt forests and shaded swimming spots hidden within gorges and under waterfalls. The area is significant for the Jinibara and Turrbal people, with ceremonial bora rings and dreaming trails all found within the park.

Carve out some time in your itinerary to explore the park’s many trails. The Maiala day-use area is the perfect starting point for walks for all levels of ability.

5. Arcade Wine Bar

arcade wine bar moreton bay — Sit down to a menu inspired by Italy.

Opposite the Redcliffe Jetty and down a laneway, you’ll find an unassuming wine bar. Venture inside and quickly fall in love with Arcade Wine Bar , one of the region’s most beloved local haunts.

Owners Danilo and Matt have a combined 50 years of sommelier experience, which they have poured into the menu, styling and wine list. More than just a hole-in-the-wall wine bar, Arcade Wine is an enoteca (a wine repository), whose walls are lined with bottles upon bottles of Italian wine varietals from every corner of Italy.

Settle in with a wine and work your way through the menu inspired by Danilo’s native Italy: traditional meatballs, their quick-to-sell-out terrine, or a selection of Italian cheeses, charcuterie and arancini.

6. Wamuran & Loop Rail Trail

Away from the ocean, tucked in the hinterland, is the Wamuran & Loop Rail Trail . Perfect for cyclists or walkers, the trail was built to showcase the history of the Caboolture to Kilcoy rail corridor (last operating in 1964) and makes for the perfect family day out. The trail runs for 10.5km and connects Wamuran and Caboolture via an accessible path.

Pass through former railroad, bridges and shaded bushland as you cut from A to B. Plus, visit in winter for a detour along the way to one of the many pick-your-own strawberry farms.

7. Farm Visits

Beaches, mountains and history make an enticing combination. But Moreton Bay also brings hinterland, family-friendly farms to the table. Trevena Glen is one of the area’s most loved, with bunnies, ponies, sheep, alpacas (and more) available to visit for the kids. For the adults, book a horse-riding session and be treated to a grazing platter as you watch the sun set over the mountains of D’Aguilar National Park.

At White Ridge Farm , find camels, putt-putt, train and tractor rides and all kinds of animals. The entire farm is paved, making it accessible for all.

8. Miss Sprinkles

Miss Sprinkles Gelato moreton bay — Pick your scoop at Miss Sprinkles Gelato.

An ice cream at the beach is one of life’s most perfect pleasures. While in town, stop by Miss Sprinkles for the locals’ pick of homemade gelato on the Scarborough foreshore.

The gelato here is made the authentic Italian way and scooped up just across from the beach. Or, settle in at their kitschy pink wooden tables for traditional gelato in the sunshine. Aside from the homemade gelato, you’ll also find tarts, pies and even doggie gelato.

To start planning your Moreton Bay trip, or for more information, head to visitmoretonbay.com.au.

New 6-day hiking and biking trail coming to Tropical North Queensland