Cairns, Queensland · Road route 02

Freshwater–Palm Cove Return

Council-mapped northern riding between Freshwater, Smithfield and Palm Cove, returned as a practical out-and-back.

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Distance: 42.8 km
Elevation: 130 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Ride time: 1 hr 45 min–2 hr 30 min moving time

GPX route outline · Starts near Freshwater

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Route overview

Plan the ride

Council-mapped northern riding between Freshwater, Smithfield and Palm Cove, returned as a practical out-and-back.

A shorter northern-beaches option

City: Cairns
Surface: Sealed shared paths and paved roads
Start location: Freshwater
Recommended tyre width: 28–35 mm road tyres
Estimated ride time: 1 hr 45 min–2 hr 30 min moving time
Route data checked: 4 September 2026

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.

Highlights

A shorter northern-beaches option. A shorter northern-beaches option

Hazards

Construction gaps, road crossings and shared-path users require low speed and attention. Do not continue north on the open highway.

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Water

No refill points are verified in this guide. Start with enough water for the route and check any planned refill is open on the day.

Coffee stops

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

Parking & public transport

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

Bike setup

Start with 28–35 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 Freshwater–Palm Cove Return GPX