The number one question everyone asks us about the Pallarenda Trails! 

Is it open yet for 2026? 

• Cutting completed on 17 May 2026 by Outer Limits with the help of volunteers, using Ausfield Services gear (see posts by Outer Limits and Ausfield here and here).

• Much of the trail was also burnt and the trails are riding really well except for some of the ruts from last year.

• Larger trail repairs repairs conducted by QPWS are funded but expected to start later in 2026.

If UTR is unrideable then most likely Smedleys is too. We'll update this page as soon as the UTR is rideable again.

Here are some previous opening dates:

• Trails opened April 17 2020. Trail clearing conducted by Ausfield Services (a vegetation management contractor). 

• Trails opened 28 May 2021. Trail management and building works completed by Mclean Projects. Smedleys works completed and open 25 June. 

• Trails opened May 2 2024. 160 hours, 60 litres of fuel and 500 metres of cord with around 15 volunteers led by Outer Limits. 

• Trails opened July 24 2025. One full day of clearing with around 15 volunteers led by Outer Limits.

• Trails opened May 19 2026. Led by Outer Limits with Ausfield gear over two weekends.

If you'd like to advocate for earlier opening of the Pallarenda trails, please go here.

A massive thanks to all the volunteers, rangers, organisers and contractors that manage this huge job every year.

If you're not into road riding and Douglas MTB Park is closed as well, try this general wet season loop:

• Freshwater trail --> Bald Rock Road --> Town Common Road --> Pallarenda Road (45-60 mins).

• Strava Link: https://www.strava.com/segments/37232032 

The trails can be quite wet or overgrown and QPWS often close the park, so monitor the Queensland Park Alerts:

• https://parks.qld.gov.au/parks/cape-pallarenda 

• https://parks.qld.gov.au/parks/townsville