General News
22 May, 2025
Mountain bike trail upgrades
A $15.5 million upgrade and expansion of the Smithfield Mountain Bike Park has been launched, with completion due by September 2028.
It was a Crisafulli government election promise which will add 53km to the current 32km network as well as infrastructure like car parks, signs and access roads to support the expected boost in visitor numbers.
The project, in partnership with Cairns Regional Council and the Cairns Mountain Bike Club, will more than double the number of trails available to riders and hikers.
Barron River MP and assistant tourism minister Bree James has invited the community to have their say on what additional trails should be called to celebrate the Far North’s biking community and local trail bike heroes.
She said the expansion was a tourism game-changer for the Far North.
“Smithfield will become one of the most iconic biking and hiking destinations in the Southern Hemisphere, supporting local businesses, creating jobs and drawing visitors year-round,” Ms James said.
“Now FNQ will be known as the Reef, rainforest and riding capital of Australia, if not the world.”
Environment and Tourism Minister Andrew Powell said the expansion was part of the Crisafulli government’s plan to return Queensland to the number one destination in Australia.
“This upgrade will benefit thousands of local mountain bike riders, get families out and about and attract national and international biking events,” he said.
Cairns Mountain Bike Club president Rachael White said it was a significant investment in the future of mountain biking in Far North Queensland.
“The Smithfield trail network is an internationally known facility and this extension will ensure it continues to meet the needs of our growing community and attract riders from across Australia and around the world,” she said.
Cairns Mayor Amy Eden said the bike trail was an exciting step forward for the city and a fantastic outcome for the community.
“The expanded trail network will not only enhance recreational opportunities and get more locals on the dirt, but also attract international visitors, boosting our tourism economy,” she said.
Locals are encouraged to have their say on the development, by entering the ‘The Great Trail Name-Off’ competition, offering an opportunity to name one of Smithfield Mountain Bike Park’s newest and most prominent trails.
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