Trail in need of repair already

“All works will occur between 7am and 4pm, Monday to Friday,” the post stated.

“The trail will remain open, however bikers may need to dismount and walk their bikes through the work areas.

“For your safety, please observe all signs, barriers and directions from work crews, and do not enter closed areas.”

The first section of the ecotourism trail was officially opened to the public in late September after years of planning and delays. 

The 7.8km hiking and mountain biking track section goes from Palm Cove Jetty through lush rainforest to the Ellis Beach foreshore.

It is the first part of the 94km Wangetti Trail, a $47 million project which is expected to be a major tourism attraction. 

The trail holds cultural significance for First Nations groups including the Djabugay people and aims to provide economic opportunities for communities all the way up to Port Douglas.

First Nations people are managing the trail and also sharing their stories with visitors. 

Then State Tourism and Sport Minister Michael Healy was optimistic about the trail’s potential when it opened last month.

“This trail offers more than just a walk through nature,” he said. 

“It’s an opportunity to create jobs, drive economic growth, and celebrate the cultural and environmental heritage of Far North Queensland.”

The former government had committed to completing the entire trail by 2026, backed by $8m of Federal Government money.

The newly opened 7.8km track from Palm Cove to Ellis Beach takes about three hours to hike and 45 minutes to ride one way.

Visitors are surrounded by towering trees, diverse flora, the sounds of tropical birds and insects and animals such as the musky rat-kangaroo.

Once completed, the trail from Palm Cove to Port Douglas is expected to span a World Heritage area and three national parks showcasing views of Double Island, Trinity Beach and more.