Crystal Cascades, situated in the Redlynch Valley, is an ideal place to cool off on a hot day in Cairns.

You can enjoy a dip in the refreshing swimming holes found in Freshwater Creek.

WARNING:

The cascades have powerful currents, so be extremely cautious when swimming here. In April 2023, there was a tragic incident where a father and son drowned while swimming at Crystal Cascades.

The river flows rapidly during floods. There have also been fatalities from attempting to jump from above the waterfall at the upper part of Crystal Cascades.

The Crystal Cascades are a series of waterfalls in Freshwater Creek that tumble from the bush in the Lamb Range.

The swimming holes are easy to reach by a shady path that follows the river up to the largest of the falls.

Steps are provided for ease of access to the swimming holes.

Water - Good enough to drink!

Cairns has two main sources of water: Copperlode Falls Dam and Behana Creek.

High above Crystal Cascades lies Lake Morris, a man-made lake created by the building of Copperlode Falls Dam.

Water from Lake Morris is channelled into Freshwater Creek and the Crystal Cascades.

Fairy Falls

Fairy Falls are hidden in a bush-clad valley, very near the car park for Crystal Cascades.

The trail is not signposted, other than a sign that warns of stinging trees!

Fairy Falls are a short walk through pristine rainforest.

Follow a trail alongside a stream for about 10 minutes. Be careful of slippery rocks as you get closer to the falls.

Choose a swimming hole along the way or climb the rocks up to the pool directly under the magical Fairy Falls.

When you reach the stunning waterfall, you will be well rewarded for your effort and reinvigorated by Nature.

The experience of witnessing such natural wonders up close is truly awe-inspiring and serves as a reminder of the incredible majesty and resilience of our natural world.

It's a moment that will leave an indelible mark on your memory, a blissful reward for your determination and a testament to the remarkable gifts that nature has to offer.