Queensland’s long-awaited Thorsborne Trail on Hinchinbrook Island has opened for bookings, with the first hikes due to start in May 2026 once the wet season ends. The 32-kilometre route offers walkers a four-day, three-night experience through one of Australia’s most admired natural areas, and represents the latest delivery in the state’s effort to expand its ecotourism offerings.
The trail is part of Destination 2045, Queensland’s 20-year tourism plan. It follows recent completions of the Ngaro Track and Twin Bridges projects and reflects the government’s focus on developing nature-based tourism. Guided walks will be available through World Expeditions from next season, while unguided permits for the 2026 hiking season will be free, with details available from the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service.
Tourism and environment minister Andrew Powell said the delivery of the Thorsborne Trail, along with the other ecotourism projects, reflected progress on the state’s tourism strategy. He linked the work to broader goals for the economy and lifestyle, pointing to the creation of new experiences that he said would attract visitors to Queensland’s natural environments.
Mr Powell highlighted expectations that the trail will help showcase the state’s landscapes to a global audience, encouraging interest in both travel and conservation. He referred to ambitions for Queensland to be seen as a leader in ecotourism within the region.
Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa described the opening as an important milestone for the local community. He said residents had long appreciated the island’s natural beauty and that the trail’s launch would attract visitors from across Australia and overseas. He also said he expected increased tourism to benefit nearby restaurants, accommodation providers and other local businesses.
Hinchinbrook Island, located off the North Queensland coast, is known for its rugged terrain, pristine beaches and diverse wildlife. The Thorsborne Trail’s completion adds a structured walking route that connects the island’s natural features and provides access for walkers keen to explore its varied environments. As interest in nature-based travel continues to grow, experiences such as this have become an important part of tourism offerings for many regions.
While supporters of the project emphasise the potential economic and environmental benefits, some conservation and community groups have raised questions about managing visitor impact on sensitive habitats. Ensuring adequate infrastructure, clear guidelines for walkers and ongoing monitoring are among considerations that have been raised as the trail prepares to open. Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service will play a key role in issuing permits and overseeing access to the route.
With bookings open well ahead of next year’s hiking season, operators and local businesses have time to prepare for what is expected to be a busy period. Ecotourism experiences can extend visitor stays and encourage spending across accommodation, food services and transport, which can be particularly valuable for regional economies. For walkers, the trail offers a chance to explore varied coastal and rainforest landscapes, with opportunities to observe local wildlife and learn about the island’s natural history.
Queensland’s approach to expanding ecotourism reflects broader trends in travel, where many visitors seek outdoor activities and experiences that connect them with nature. The availability of both guided and unguided options aims to cater to a range of preferences, from those seeking expert-led journeys to more independent travellers planning their own adventure.
As plans for future Destination 2045 projects continue to develop, stakeholders will be watching how the Thorsborne Trail performs in its first season. Its success could influence further investment in similar initiatives across the state. In the meantime, walkers interested in booking a place on the trail can find more information through the relevant tourism channels and park services.
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