Fairy Falls Cairns – The hidden waterfall at the Crystal Cascades

Fairy Falls Cairns – The hidden waterfall at the Crystal Cascades

A quick waterfall guide to help you find Fairy Falls Cairns, the hidden waterfall at the back of Crystal Cascades.

Fairy Falls Cairns is a little hidden gem, just a short 15-minute walk from the popular Crystal Cascades swimming hole.

Sometimes it's worth hiking off the beaten path. This definitely applies to Fairy Falls, as most visitors to the Crystal Cascades wouldn't even know they exist! In my opinion, it's a more beautiful waterfall, nestled in a small corner of rainforest, complete with hanging vines and a crystal clear waterfall pool.

In this guide, I'll tell you everything you need to know about visiting Fairy Falls, including how to get there and what to expect once you arrive.

If this is your first time reading my blog, you may not know that I have documented hundreds of epic sights and things to do in Cairns. After checking out the Crystal Cascades why not explore the epic Cairns waterfalls or hiking trails or check out this list to see where you can stay.
alt=“FAIRY FALLS CRYSTAL CASCADES CAIRNS”>Fairy Falls

RELATED GUIDES: Stoney Creek Falls | Crystal cascades

Best waterfall tours in Cairns

Before we delve into this epic hidden gem of a waterfall, I want to share with you the best Cairns waterfall tours.

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How to get to Fairy Falls Cairns?

To get to Fairy Falls, you need to drive to Crystal Cascades, which is about 25 minutes from Cairns city. Unfortunately, there is no public transportation to the Cascades, so you will need your own transportation.

The parking lot for Crystal Cascades is located at the end of Redlynch Intake Road. This is where you need to go and park your car before reaching the secret path to Fairy Falls. I have marked the exact location of the parking lot on the map below.

If you don't have your own car, then I recommend booking a canyoning tour from Cairns. The following is one of the best canyoning experiences in Far North Queensland and goes up Crystal Canyon, close to the Cascades and Fairy Falls.

Check the best price: Cairns Canyoneering Adventure

alt=“FAIRY FALLS CRYSTAL CASCADES BARON FALLS NATIONAL PARK CAIRNS”>Swimming at Fairy Falls on my first visit

Find the hidden trail to Fairy Falls

The trail to Fairy Falls is on the left side of the parking lot (as you enter the parking lot facing the direction of the Crystal Cascades trailhead).

There are no signs or markers showing the route, but you will see the clearing next to a stinging plant warning sign.

Follow this path through the dense tropical rainforest for no more than 10 minutes until you reach the stream where the path turns left. Don't take the treacherous path that leads almost vertically up a hill. Instead, stay near the stream and keep walking until you reach a small clearing.

There is a shallow pool here and the hidden waterfall directly above it.
alt=“FAIRY FALLS TRACK AT CRYSTAL CASCADES CAIRNS”>Fairy Falls hiking trail

Fairy Falls Cairns – What to Expect

True, Fairy Falls is not the most impressive waterfall in Cairns in terms of size or power. However, it is a very picturesque waterfall, carved into the cliff and flowing into a narrow but deep blue pool.
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There is also a large, thick log that appears to have ripped down the rapids and wedged itself perfectly into the waterfall. The locals have carved some steps into the slippery bark so you can climb a little higher and admire the waterfall.

Fairy Falls is one of my favorite places in Cairns to relax away from the crowds. The walk is very short and easy, making it one of the best places in the city to cool off in the hot tropical heat.
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Cairns Accommodation Guide – Where to Stay

Are you planning a trip to Cairns and wondering where to base yourself? Below I have listed some of the best options near Cairns Esplanade. I have also written a comprehensive accommodation guide for Cairns as well as a comprehensive accommodation guide for Port Douglas.

Crystalbrook Riley – If you’re looking for luxury and location, Crystalrbook Riley can’t be beat. This is the best 5 star resort in Cairns and offers absolutely everything you would expect from a Crystalbrook resort.

Tip: Be sure to head to Rocco’s Bar at the top of Crystalbrook Riley for great views over Cairns!
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Rydges Resort – This hotel offers great value for an epic stay at a decent price! The location is perfect, close to the Esplanade and has three swimming pools, two tennis courts, a hot tub, a fitness center and even an award-winning restaurant.
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Fitzroy Island Resort – If you prefer to stay on one of the picturesque islands of the Great Barrier Reef, look no further than Fitzroy Island Resort. While you can do a day trip here, I highly recommend spending the night so you have more time to explore the reef, coral beaches, and rainforest hiking trails.
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Gilligan’s Backpackers – The best backpacker option for a great atmosphere in Cairns is Gilligan’s Backpackers. That's because this one has a swimming pool, air conditioning, a full kitchen and a great common area to meet other travelers.

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More waterfalls, hikes and adventures in Cairns

I hope you found this quick guide to visiting Fairy Falls in Cairns, Queensland helpful. If you enjoyed this place, be sure to check out some of my other articles for the Far North. I've spent a lot of time documenting the best adventures to share with you.

So, keep going, I'm sure you'll find something new!

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