Cairns Freshwater Escapes
Cairns Gorges, Creeks, Swimming Holes, Waterfalls And Lakes
Discover the hidden secrets of Cairns freshwater escapes. It is at this time of the year (summer) when the locals turn their backs to go on a dip in the natural waterwashed cascade and pools. Cool, refreshing water pools surrounded by lush rainforest with the rivers and creeks flows downsrteam, what more can ask for a perfect freshwater escape in the tropics.
Crystal Cascades
This is perhaps the best known and most often visited freshwater creek in Cairns. Only 20-30 minutes from Cairns, Crystal Cascades sits at the end of Freshwater Valley and provide an oasis of green rainforest and sparkiling clear water. There are plenty of water pools to swim and the parking facility threre is easy and plenty. Also provided are toilet, picnic and BBQ area.
Getting There: Head towards Redlynch and follow the Redlynch Intake Road all the way to its end.
Freshwater Creek
10-15 minutes from Cairns, Freshwater Creek provides plenty of cool swimming opportunities. BBQ and picnic tables are provided here at Freshwater Creek.
Getting There: Head north via the Resevoir Road towards the suburbs of Redlynch for Glenoma Park. Turn left after the traffic lights at Cool Waters Caravan Park.
Mossman Gorge
About two and a half hours drive north of Cairns, pass Port Douglas. For a taste of the Daintree without having to go too far north, why not try Mossman Gorge. Mossman Gorge has excellent swimming spots picnic facilities and a selection of short walks through the World Heritage rainforest.
Getting There: Head north along the Captain Cook Highway to Mossman, just pass Port Douglas. Just before you reach Mosssman, a signposted left will take you out to the gorge.
Barron Gorge
Situated in Kuranda Barron Gorge waterfall is the biggest waterfall around Cairns. Spectacular all year round, the majestic Barron Gorge is at its awesome best during the wet season. Barron Gorge is the biggest in the area and you would not want to miss it.
Getting There: Head to Kuranda and go to the rainforest walk, at the end of the track you will see Barron Gorge.
Recommended Tour
Goldsborough Valley
About an hour drive south of Cairns, hidden somewhere in the rainforest is Goldsborough Valley State Forest Park. This park is a pleasant camping and picnic site that offers lots of opportunities for a dip in the water and explore the old gold mine.
Getting There: Drive towards Gordonvale south of Cairns on the Bruce Highway, turn right at the traffic lights at Gordonvale and head to Tableland. Goldsborough Valley is signposted about 6km from Gordonvale on the left hand side and is further 15km to the camping area.
Stoney Creek Falls
15-20 minutes from Cairns, this small creek provides a quick and easy escape from the hot and humid days of Cairns. There are plenty of tiny pools along the way to stop and refresh in while absorbing the natural surrounds of the Barron Gorge National park.
Getting There: Head north via the Resevoir Road towards the suburbs of Kamerunga and Caravonica. Turn left at the traffic lights before the Barron River bridge and head to the Rainforest Estate. Stoney Creek sits just beyond the gate at the end of the road.
The Boulders
About 2 hours drive south of Cairns you will find Boulders. This recreation area provides picnic benches, toilets and gas BBQ for those that wish to stay the night. There is a large and deep swimming area near the car park so you dont have to explore the creek to find a water pool.
Getting There: Drive towards Babinda on the Bruce Highway, 60km south of Cairns.
Lake Placid
15-20 minutes drive from Cairns, this lake is a natural pond in the Barron River and popular among locals for swimming, canoeing and picnincs. With a large area for BBQ and sandy beach nearby, this is the perfect place to go for your timeout.
Getting There: Head north via the Reservoir Road towards Kamerunga and Caravonica. After crossing the bridge at Barron river turn left at the next traffic lights. Follow the Lake Placid Road, past the caravan park and head towards the recreational area.
Lake Barrine
Lake Barrine Cairns Highland
About 30-45 minutes drive south of Cairns head towards the Gillies Highway. Once a volcanic crater, the lake is now one of the many popular tourist place to visit. Its calm waters are surrounded by fringing rainforest offset by a tea house which serves excellent Devonshire teas and other welcomes fare. There is also a boat trip around the lake.
Getting There: Drive towards Gordonvale south of Cairns on the Bruce Highway, turn right at the traffic lights at Gordonvale and head to Tableland. Not far after driving through the Gillies Highway, Lake Barrine is signposted on the left side.
Recommended Tour
Lake Eacham
Lake Eacham is a sister lake to Barrine and both are formed from explosion crater or maars. The lake is approximately 65m deep, a long stretch of grassy lawn meets the lake side and there are BBQ and picnic areas, also you will find toilets. It's a nice place to go for a swim on hot steamy day, many locals and tourists visit Lake Eacham on daily basis.
