CAIRNS TO KARUMBA (C2K)

Location: QLD
Date: Saturday, June 27, 2026

The Cairns to Karumba Bike Ride (C2K) stands as Australia's longest-running charity cycling adventure, uniting riders of all abilities in an unforgettable seven-day journey across Queensland's dramatic landscape. This 794km supported ride has raised over $1.2 million for rural education, combining serious cycling achievement with genuine outback hospitality.

Whether you're chasing performance goals or seeking an epic adventure, C2K delivers with 4,182m of total elevation gain across varied terrain. The fully-supported format, with flexible daily riding options and a vibrant community atmosphere, makes this iconic journey achievable for any determined cyclist.

Date: 27 June - 3 July 2026

Location: Cairns to Karumba, Queensland

Event Type: Multiday supported charity ride

Distance: 794km total over 7 days

  • Day 1: Cairns to Atherton (98km, 1,330m elevation)
  • Day 2: Atherton to Mount Garnet (108.4km, 1,432m elevation)
  • Day 3: Mount Garnet to Mount Surprise (118km, 632m elevation)
  • Day 4: Mount Surprise to Georgetown (93.8km, 744m elevation)
  • Day 5: Georgetown to Croydon (150km, 512m elevation)
  • Day 6: Croydon to Normanton (155.3km, 78m elevation)
  • Day 7: Normanton to Karumba (73.3km, 82m elevation)

The route traverses Queensland's diverse landscape from coastal ranges to savannah plains. Notable sections include the challenging Kuranda Range (7% gradient over 5km), Herberton Range, and Newcastle Range (15km climb). The journey features smooth highways interspersed with iconic outback road sections, offering both physical challenges and spectacular scenery.

Vehicle support is available for major climbs, and flexible pack options let you adjust your daily effort. Each day features regular rest stops every 20km with full support crew, making this epic journey achievable for determined cyclists of all levels.

Early registration (until 31st October 2025)

  • 7-Day Road Rider: $2,015
  • 3-Day Road Rider: $968
  • 1-Day Road Rider: $400

Standard registration (1 Nov–30 Apr 2026)

  • 7-Day Road Rider: $2,065
  • 3-Day Road Rider: $1,017
  • 1-Day Road Rider: $450
  • Late registration (1–31 May 2026)
  • 7-Day Road Rider: $2,272
  • 3-Day Road Rider: $1,118
  • 1-Day Road Rider: $495
  • Under 18s: Special rates available

Registration includes:

  • Event jersey
  • Three meals daily
  • Luggage transport
  • Hot showers
  • Full mechanical support
  • Medical support
  • Entertainment program
  • Professional ride leaders and pack options
  • Support vehicles and police escort
  • Regular drink/rest stops (every 20km)
  • Mechanical support at campsites
  • Full medical team
  • Dedicated catering crew
  • Comprehensive rider handbook
  • Daily SMS updates

By Air

  • Cairns International Airport (CNS)
  • Regular domestic flights from all major Australian cities
  • International connections available
  • 10 minutes to event start at Cairns Lagoon
  • Car hire available at terminal

By Car

  • From Brisbane: 19 hours via Bruce Highway/A1 (1,700 km)
  • From Townsville: 4 hours via Bruce Highway/A1 (347 km)
  • Ample parking at Cairns Lagoon for ride start
  • Vehicle transport options available for support crews

Return Transport

  • Pre-booked bus service from Karumba to Cairns
  • Departs Saturday morning after event
  • Includes breakfast option
  • Professional drivers familiar with outback conditions
  • Bike transport included

Consider extending your stay either pre or post-ride to fully experience the diverse attractions of Tropical North Queensland and the Gulf Savannah region. Local tourism information available at C2K HQ throughout the event.

Cairns Region (Start)

Along the Route

Atherton Tablelands(Day 1-2)

  • Historic mining towns
  • Crater lakes and waterfalls
  • Local coffee plantations
  • Crystal Caves

Savannah Way Highlights (Days 3-6)

Karumba (Finish)

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