Driving the Curvy Gillies Range Road in Queensland
Australia, oceania
55.7 km
800 m
extreme
Year-round
Winding its way through the tropics of Queensland, Australia, the Gillies Range Road (also known as the Gillies Highway or Cairns Range Road) is a must-drive for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike! Officially named after a former Premier, this fully paved road stretches for about 56 km (35 miles) between Gordonvale and Atherton, offering incredible mountain and forest views.
Originally opened in 1926 and widened since, this road is a popular route, now seeing thousands of vehicles daily. Be prepared for a seriously twisty ride! The most famous 19 km section boasts a whopping 263 corners and an 800-meter elevation change as you climb through the Gillies Range. You'll hit a peak elevation of 829 meters (2,719 ft). It's not for the faint of heart, with rock walls on one side and steep drop-offs on the other, but the views are worth it!
A word of caution: keep an eye out for Southern Cassowaries! These endangered, flightless birds are known to wander onto a section of the road. Remember to slow down, keep your windows up, and never feed them. It's not just illegal; it's dangerous for both you and the birds! Recent speed limit reviews have set a consistent 80km/h limit, with advisory signs posted on curves to keep you safe.
Where is it?
Driving the Curvy Gillies Range Road in Queensland is located in Australia (oceania). Coordinates: -27.1088, 136.3651
Road Details
- Country
- Australia
- Continent
- oceania
- Length
- 55.7 km
- Max Elevation
- 800 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- -27.1088, 136.3651
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