Skyrail Rainforest Cableway is a restricted business and is operating in accordance with a
COVID Safe Checklist.
Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
Glide for 7.5km above the rainforest canopy between Smithfield (Cairns) and Kuranda. Enjoy a truly unique perspective of Australia’s Wet Tropics World Heritage Area before descending to explore rainforest boardwalks at Red Peak and Barron Falls.
Red Peak
Rainforest Discovery Zone
Ranger Guided Tours
Rainforest Boardwalk Loop
Scenic Lookout
Barron Falls
Panoramic Gorge and Waterfall Views
Rainforest Boardwalk Loop
The Edge Lookout
Planning Points
Advance bookings and payment is required- Skyrail’s Smithfield (Cairns) terminal is located 15 minutes north of Cairns and 50 minutes south of Port Douglas.
- Bus transfers are available from selected Cairns City locations.
- A one-way journey takes approximately 1 ½ hours including time spent exploring Red Peak and Barron Falls. Allow 2 ½ hours for a round trip experience. Skyrail can be combined with the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway for a half or full day experience.
- First departure from Smithfield is at 8:30am and the last one way or round trip experience from Smithfield departs at 1:00pm.
- The last one way experience from Kuranda departs at 3:15pm and the latest you can board from Kuranda for a round trip experience is at 12:00pm.
- Gondolas depart continuously throughout the day and bookings are made in 15 minute intervals.
- Gondolas carry a maximum of 6 people in a standard gondola and a maximum of 5 people in Diamond View (including infants).
- See Visitor Information for scheduled open dates.
Advance bookings and payment is required
Skyrail + Kuranda Scenic Railway
Combine a one-way Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and one-way Kuranda Scenic Railway experience for an unforgettable adventure.
Experience one of the most unique rail journeys in Australia.
The Kuranda Scenic Railway, in operation since 1891, immerses you in the rich history of the Tropical North Queensland area and its pioneering past.
The original Kuranda Scenic Railway Heritage carriages offer the old world charm of travelling in authentic timber carriages, some of which are up to 90 years old.
Upgrade to Gold Class (9:55am and 3:30pm services only) for a premium experience offering a little extra comfort and luxury, including a souvenir gift and local delicacies served by your dedicated host.
Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and Kuranda Scenic Railway experiences combined to offer the perfect half or full day tour.
Planning Points
- Advance bookings and payment is required
- A one-way Kuranda Scenic Railway journey takes approximately 1 ½ hours.
- Bus transfers are available from selected Cairns City locations.
- You can start with either Skyrail Rainforest Cableway or Kuranda Scenic Railway.
- The morning train departs from Freshwater Railway Station to Kuranda at 8:55am and 9:55am.
- The afternoon train departs from Kuranda to Freshwater Railway Station (continuing to Cairns Central Railway Station) at 2:00pm and 3:30pm.
- The morning departure is from Freshwater Railway Station only and is not available from Cairns Central Railway Station.
Getting Here
Skyrail’s Smithfield (Cairns) Terminal is located at 6 Skyrail Drive, Smithfield. Approximately 15 minutes north of Cairns City and 50 minutes south of Port Douglas in Tropical North Queensland, Australia.
Skyrail is currently operating a regular bus service from selected Cairns City accommodation properties only.
Bus transfers from Yorkeys Knob Marina are available for cruise ship guests on shore excursion days only.
You are welcome to make your own way to Skyrail. Complimentary parking is available, including dedicated parking for over-sized vehicles including RV’s and caravans. Two Electric Vehicle (EV) charging station bays are available.
Skyrail’s Smithfield Terminal and the Freshwater Railway Station are located approximately 7km (4 miles) apart.
If you are driving and combining Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and the Kuranda Scenic Railway, a one-way bus transfer will automatically be included in your booking.
Bus transfer details for self-drivers:
- Drive to Skyrail Smithfield (Cairns) Terminal and check-in.
- If you are starting your tour on Kuranda Scenic Railway and finishing with Skyrail, a bus will transfer you to Freshwater Railway Station to begin your journey in the morning.
- If you are starting your tour on Skyrail and finishing with Kuranda Scenic Railway, a bus will transfer you from Freshwater Railway Station back to your vehicle at Smithfield Terminal at the end of your day.
Plan your day with our experience map
