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Hartleys Creek Falls – Cairns Waterfalls Guide
Hartleys Creek Falls is a waterfall at the end of a gentle trail near Wangetti, north of Cairns. Looking for a quick waterfall hike and adventure near Cairns' northern beaches? Hartleys Creek Falls might be just what you're looking for. This waterfall is something of a “local secret,” hidden at the back of Wangetti near the well-known Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures. But don't worry; There are no crocodiles at Hartleys Creek Falls, so you can swim and cool off at the waterfall after the short but rewarding hike. alt=“HARTLEYS CREEK FALLS SWIMMING HOLE”> alt=“HARTLEYS …
Hartleys Creek Falls – Cairns Waterfalls Guide
Hartleys Creek Falls is a waterfall at the end of a gentle trail near Wangetti, north of Cairns.
Looking for a quick waterfall hike and adventure near Cairns' northern beaches? Hartleys Creek Falls might be just what you're looking for.
This waterfall is something of a “local secret,” hidden at the back of Wangetti near the well-known Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures. But don't worry; There are no crocodiles at Hartleys Creek Falls, so you can swim and cool off at the waterfall after the short but rewarding hike.
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- alt=“HARTLEYS CREEK FÄLLT WASSERFALL“>
- alt=“HARTLEYS CREEK WANDERWEG“>
Where is Hartleys Creek Falls Track?
Hartleys Creek Falls is located in Wangetti, just off the Captain Cook Highway, just 15km from Palm Cove or 43km from Cairns. Hartley’s Creek Falls is accessible via a wide and easy trail just off the highway.
How do I get here?
To get to the Hartleys Creek Falls trailhead from Cairns, simply drive north on the Captain Cook Highway towards Wangetti. If you're traveling from Cairns, expect to drive at least 40 minutes.
Access to the Hartleys Creek Falls trail is just 500 meters past Hartleys Crocodile Adventures, near Hartleys Creek Retreat. If you're using Google Maps, just type in "Hartleys Creek Retreat" and you'll arrive right next to the trailhead.
There is a large clearing in front of the retreat where you can park your car. The access to the starting point is directly to the left of the entrance gate to the retreat and is signposted.
alt=“PARKING LOT NEAR HARTLEYS CREEK”>Park here for trail access
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The Hartleys Creek Falls Track
Once you find the starting point with the information above, the rest is pretty easy. Start by passing the fenced retreat and begin a gentle climb for about 1.5km. The path is wide and easy to follow, winding sporadically through the native scrub. The length of the trail follows the banks of Hartleys Creek to the waterfall without having to make any turns.
Although there are some dips and steep sections, the Hartleys Creek Falls route is overall very gentle and can be completed by anyone of average fitness.
About halfway you will reach a clearing with access to a waterhole section of Hartleys Creek. Although it looks like a great campsite, unfortunately it is not allowed. However, if you want to take a quick dip then this spot is perfect and makes for a very scenic rest stop.
alt=“SWIMMING POOL NORTH OF CAIRNS HARTLEYS CREEK”>
After approximately 3.5 km you will reach the rocky banks leading to the waterfall. Turn left here and follow the sign to reach Hartleys Creek Falls.
alt=“HARTLEYS CREEK FALLS ROUTE”>
RELATED: CRYSTAL CASCADES | SADDLE MOUNTAIN HIKE | WHITE ROCK HIKE
What to Expect at Hartleys Creek Waterfall and Swimming Hole
Once you arrive at Hartleys Creek Falls, you can see why it's such a local favorite. It's easily accessible, the hike is enjoyable and rewarding without being too difficult, and the swimming hole is perfect!
The waterfall itself cascades gently about 16 meters (my estimate) down the steep rock face into a huge freshwater pool. The pool beneath the falls is the perfect swimming hole on a hot, tropical summer day. It is possible to climb up the lower boulder beneath the waterfall and jump into the deep pool below. It's hard to say how deep it is, but I couldn't reach the bottom after jumping around the edge of the waterfall.
After passing the crocodile attraction just up the road, it's difficult to think about crocodiles. However, rest assured that there are no crocodiles here (at least none have ever been spotted).
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alt=“HARTLEYS CREEK FALLS SWIMMING HOLE”>
ALSO NEARBY: Spring Creek Falls
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!
alt=”Girls sunbathing at Crystalbrook Riley Resort in Cairns”>
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.
alt=“RYDGES ESPLANADE RESORT IN CAIRNS, WHERE TO STAY”>
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.
alt="FITZROY ISLAND RESORT">
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 and hikes in Cairns
I hope this quick guide to visiting Hartleys Creek Falls in Cairns has proven helpful in planning your waterfall adventures! For more must-do waterfalls and hikes near Cairns, check out my list below. Otherwise, why not start with this guide to the best waterfalls in Cairns and surrounding areas, the best hiking trails or this guide to the best things to do in Cairns.
Enjoy!
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