Crystal Cascades, Cairns: Complete Swimming Holes and Waterfalls Guide

Crystal Cascades, Cairns: Complete Swimming Holes and Waterfalls Guide

The Crystal Cascades are perhaps one of the most famous swimming holes near Cairns. It features several spots along the stream for swimming as well as a beautiful waterfall at the end. Discover this complete guide to visiting the Crystal Cascades in Cairns, Australia.

The Crystal Cascades are a series of freshwater falls just a short 25-minute drive from Cairns. There are several refreshing swimming holes that provide an incredible opportunity to cool off in the hot tropical North Queensland climate.

This is a complete guide to visiting Cairns' famous Cascades. I've included information on how to get here, what to expect, and some inspiring photos from my travels.

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=“CRYSTAL CASCADES CAIRNS WATERFALLS, SWIMMING HOLE NEAR CAIRNS”>The main waterfall at the Crystal Cascades

Where are the Crystal Cascades?

The Crystal Cascades is a local name for the many swimming holes and waterfalls along “Freshwater Creek.” This stream flows year-round as it is fed by Lake Morris and the many tributaries of the Lamb Range.

The Cascades has its own car park located approximately 18.7 kilometers from Cairns CBD.

Google Maps Pin: “Crystal Cascades”

How to get here from Cairns

Although the Crystal Cascades is a very popular spot for locals, there is no public transportation here.

So to get to Crystal Cascades you will need a car. If you're coming from the city of Cairns, it's just a 25 minute drive past Redlynch to the outskirts of Barron Falls National Park.

I have pinned the location of Crystal Cascades on the Google Map above. This will lead you to a large parking lot where you must leave your car before walking the Crystal Cascades Trail.

If you don't have your own car, then it's best to just book a canyoning tour from Cairns. This is one of the best canyoning experiences in Far North Queensland and travels up Crystal Canyon.

Check the best price: Cairns Canyoneering Adventure

RELATED: Stoney Creek Falls

Hiking the Crystal Cascades Track

The Crystal Cascades Walk is by no means a hiking trail. Realistically it's more like a short 1.2 kilometer walk on a paved road. This route starts at the car park mentioned above and is well signposted and easy to identify.

While you may not need to bring your hiking boots, it's still an incredibly beautiful walk through the tropical rainforest and past fast-flowing rapids.

It only takes about 20 minutes to reach the end of the hike where you can see the main waterfall. However, there are many nice swimming spots downstream if you go to the falls.
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RELATED POST: Best Things to Do in Cairns, Australia

The Crystal Cascade Waterfall

The end of the line for the Crystal Cascades trail is the main waterfall. This waterfall is actually a series of smaller waterfalls that flow into a wide, deep pool. Officially this waterfall is called Wongalee Falls.

There is access to the waterfall where you can relax on the large granite boulders and swim in the natural pool.

Rainforest trees hang over the edges of the waterfall and stream, which can help you cool down on a hot summer day in Cairns.
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What to Expect at Crystal Cascades Cairns

Thinking of visiting the Cascades? If you are looking for things to do in Cairns then I would definitely recommend spending at least a day trip here.

While everything else seems so far away, this waterfall is probably one of the closest freshwater swimming areas you'll find. It's also arguably one of the most beautiful natural spots in Cairns, so take your time!

See also: The 10 best tours and experiences in Cairns

Find the best freshwater swimming holes

On the walk you are likely to see a few access points to some refreshing swimming holes along Freshwater Creek. If you're looking for a more secluded place to swim, I would recommend walking along the creek and picking a spot.

Most people meet at the waterfall or the first few spots, leaving some nice, secluded pools along the way.

There are several spots with water deep enough for swimming, so go ahead and explore.

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Tip: Make sure you monitor the water levels

Unfortunately, several people died here. While it may seem safe and innocent on a calm day, the Crystal Cascades can be a completely different beast in the rainy season after torrential rains.

Luckily, there are warning systems in place to warn tourists and locals alike when water levels get too high. However, freshwater rivers, streams and waterfalls near Cairns can be extremely unpredictable. Make sure you monitor conditions and definitely do not enter the water if you have any doubts.
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Cliff diving at the Crystal Cascades

When I was at the main waterfall at Crystal Cascades, I was shown some small 6 meter cliff jumps into the deep pool below. The main pool is deep enough to jump on the right side, but there may be submerged rocks.

It can also be quite slippery on the sloping granite edge. Missing a jump and landing on the rocks below will result in serious injury. It's best to have a local show you where to jump before attempting it. Remember, the signs advise you not to jump, so use common sense.

Are the Crystal Cascades remote?

A few other blogs I've read online have claimed that the Crystal Cascades are a local secret and that you'll have it all to yourself.

Unfortunately, this has never been the case for me. I visited the Crystal Cascades countless times during my time in Cairns and never had it to myself.

Maybe there's been a spike in popularity recently, but there definitely seems to be more than a handful of people at Cascades most of the time.

Before you go: Don't miss the nearby Fairy Falls

If you're looking for something more secluded, there's another secret waterfall on site, located at the Crystal Cascades. To reach it, you have to go back to the Crystal Cascades parking lot. There is a small, unmarked trail on the left side of the parking lot (facing the Crystal Cascades trail).

This trail winds through dense rainforest vegetation before revealing a spectacular small waterfall with a deep swimming hole.

READ THE FULL BLOG POST: Fairy Falls, The Secret Waterfall

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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 photos of the Crystal Cascades to inspire your visit

Looking for more photos of the Crystal Cascades? Here are more photos I took during my visits to this epic location in Cairns!

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More Cairns adventure articles and travel guides

I hope you found this guide to visiting the Crystal Cascades in Cairns, Australia helpful. I've spent almost a year exploring all the epic things to do in Cairns, so be sure to check out my blog for more adventure inspiration and travel guides.

Below are a few that are a good place to start!

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