If you’re looking for accessible experiences in Cairns, your first stop should be Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. Located in Smithfield, about a 15 minute drive from the Cairns CBD, Skyrail is an accessible 7.5km long cableway that traverses the rainforest between Cairns and Kuranda. Not only do you get to skim the canopy of the home of the oldest tropical rainforest on Earth, but there are also two rainforest stops along the cableway where you can explore the rainforest floor as well.
Suggested read: The best photo spots at Skyrail Rainforest Cableway in Cairns
Why is Skyrail Rainforest Cableway accessible?
Skyrail Rainforest Cableway have ensured that their Cairns experience is fully accessible. The cable cars fit wheelchairs, and can be slowed down or come to a complete stop (with a ramp) if required. The boardwalks at the rainforest stops (Red Peak and Barron Falls) along the way are flat, quite wide and can be accessed via ramps.
How do I get on and off the cable cars?
Whether you have a wheelchair or otherwise mobility impaired, Skyrail will slow or stop the cableway so that you can get on and off the cable cars easily. The Skyrail team know exactly what to do to help you here and will also let the team know at other sections of the cableway ahead of time as well to make the experience stress-free.
Explore the rainforest floor with Skyrail accessible boardwalks
Although Skyrail Rainforest Cableway is known for its incredible views across the rainforest canopy and out to Cairns, you don’t want to miss out on exploring the rainforest floor. There are two places to explore the rainforest undergrowth – Red Peak and Barron Falls – and both are completely accessible at Skyrail. Once you disembark from the gondolas, you’ll be directed to ramp to get to the boardwalks. The accessible boardwalks at both Skyrail rainforest stops are flat, wide and well maintained, making it easy to use a wheelchair or (like me) crutches to explore.
Other accessibility requirements at Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
In addition to the above, Skyrail Rainforest Cableway also has accessible parking available and a pick up and drop off point at the Smithfield Terminal. There is also accessible bathrooms at both Skyrail rainforest stops as well as both the Kuranda and Smithfield terminal. Skyrail Rainforest Cableway also supports companion cards. Skyrail operates within a World Heritage area so if you are travelling with Support and Assistance animals you will need to pre-book and you can find out more on their website.
Enjoy exploring the rainforest below and above with Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. Make your booking on their website here.
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