Waterfalls & Swimming

There is another side to Tropical North Queensland beyond the beaches and the Great Barrier Reef — and it is hiding in the rainforest.

Fresh mountain streams tumble over ancient granite, waterfalls disappear into deep rainforest pools, volcanic crater lakes sit high in the Atherton Tablelands, and beautiful freshwater swimming holes appear only minutes from the highway. You certainly don't need to visit them all.

This guide is our pick of the waterfalls and swimming holes that are genuinely worth making part of your road trip. Some are famous for good reason, some are places locals have escaped to for generations, and others require a little more effort but reward you with some of the most spectacular scenery in Far North Queensland.

Choose a couple that fit the direction you're travelling, throw your swimmers and towel in the camper, and make a day of it.