Hiker's Paradise Opens On Hinchinbrook Island

Minister for the Environment and Tourism and Minister for Science and Innovation The Honourable Andrew Powell
  • The Crisafulli Government delivers a new world class hiking experience on Hinchinbrook Island.
  • Thorsborne Trail is now complete and open for bookings, with the 32-kilometre walk to begin in May 2026 once the wet season has concluded.
  • Thorsborne Trail is the third ecotourism project completed in last six months, as part of Destination 2045.
  • Crisafulli Government is delivering a fresh start for Queensland's environment after a decade of decline under Labor.

The Crisafulli Government is delivering a world-class hiking trail in North Queensland in a major step forward for ecotourism.

Offering a new and immersive walking experience in one of Australia's most revered natural environments, Thorsborne Trail provides four-day, three-night hikes in the spectacular landscape that is Hinchinbrook Island.

The trail is a flagship initiative under Destination 2045, the State's revolutionary 20-year tourism plan, demonstrating the Crisafulli Government's commitment to unlocking ecotourism, creating jobs, and providing new opportunities for operators.

This rapid delivery of tangible, completed projects overturns a decade of decline under Labor, following a Queensland Audit Office report that revealed just three ecotourism projects were approved in 10 years.

Since taking office, the Crisafulli Government has hit the ground running, unveiling Thorsborne Trail alongside Ngaro Track and Twin Bridges, with many more projects on the horizon.

Guided walks led by world-class tourism operator World Expeditions begin after the wet season, while unguided hiking permits will be made free for the 2026 hiking season.

Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the Crisafulli Government was delivering a better lifestyle through a stronger economy.

"We promised 45 ecotourism experiences when we launched Destination 2045 – to have already delivered three in time for Christmas shows spectacular progress for Queensland's tourism industry," Minister Powell said. 

"By championing projects like this, we can showcase Queensland's incredible natural landscapes, delivering more experiences in our globally-acclaimed environment that inspire future conservationists to protect it. 

"Step aside New Zealand, move over Tasmania – Queensland is setting a new bar for ecotourism."

Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said this was a momentous occasion for his community.

"Locals know this place is spectacular, but now our piece of paradise has earned its place on the world stage," Mr Chiesa said.

"This is the sort of experience that people will fly around the globe to discover, and as they do, they'll bring massive economic gain to our local businesses.

"That means a boost to our restaurants, hotels and other experiences, and real growth for our community."

To find free unguided hiking permits, visit the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service .

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