Cairns, Queensland · Road route 05

Copperlode Dam / Lake Morris Return

Cairns' defining local climb from the city up Lake Morris Road to Copperlode Falls Dam.

Distance
52.3 km
Elevation
1,210 m
Difficulty
Hard
Ride time
3 hr–4 hr 30 min moving time
GPX route outline · Starts near Cairns Esplanade Lagoon
View the route in Google Maps

Route overview

Plan the ride

Cairns' defining local climb from the city up Lake Morris Road to Copperlode Falls Dam.

A compact, sustained rainforest climb

City
Cairns
Surface
Paved mountain road
Start location
Cairns Esplanade Lagoon
Recommended tyre width
28–32 mm road tyres
Estimated ride time
3 hr–4 hr 30 min moving time
Route data checked

The GPX file and page data were checked on this date. This is not an on-the-ground closure check; verify current conditions before riding.

01

Highlights

A compact, sustained rainforest climb. A compact, sustained rainforest climb

02

Hazards

Steep narrow bends, service vehicles, falling debris, rain and a long technical descent. Confirm dam-road access before leaving.

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03

Water

No refill points are verified in this guide. Carry enough water for the full ride and confirm resupply options on the planning map before leaving.

04

Coffee stops

No cafe stop is verified in this guide. Use the planning map to choose a current, opening-hours-checked option near Cairns Esplanade Lagoon or along the route.

05

Parking & public transport

Start near Cairns Esplanade Lagoon. Parking restrictions and public transport access are not independently verified; check the planning map and the local operator before travelling.

06

Bike setup

Start with 28–32 mm road tyres. Adjust pressure, tread and spares for rider weight, weather and current surface conditions.

Take the route with you

Download the GPX

Import the file into Garmin Connect, Wahoo, Hammerhead, COROS, Bryton or another navigation app. Review the full line before the ride.

Download Copperlode Dam / Lake Morris Return GPX