Emerald Creek Falls Cairns Sarah Latham

One of the best waterfalls in Cairns, Emerald Creek Falls is located near Mareeba on the Atherton Tablelands, about an hour and 10 minutes out of Cairns City.

How to get to Emerald Creek Falls Cairns Sarah Latham

This waterfall is a local’s favourite, not only for Cairns locals but everyone who lives on and near the Atherton Tablelands. Not only is it beautiful, an easy walk (although due to some rock hopping you do need a reasonable level of mobility) and a great swimming spot, it is one of the rare waterfalls where dogs are allowed (on a leash).

Emerald Creek Falls Cairns Sarah Latham

How to get to Emerald Creek Falls

Put Emerald Creek Falls into Google Maps (click here). The last part of the road from the turn off to the falls carpark is unsealed and while you don’t need a 4WD to get there, be sure to take appropriate caution. There is also a lot of wildlife around (especially kangaroos and wallabies), so drive slowly and be sure to keep your eyes out.

Emerald Creek Falls has a carpark. Park your car and head towards the path, which is clearly defined.

How to get to Emerald Creek Falls Cairns Sarah Latham
The walk to Emerald Creek Falls

After less than 5 minutes you will come to a sign indicating two directions ‘Bottom of Falls’ and ‘Falls Lookout.’ To get to the waterfall (and swimming area), turn left and follow the path to the ‘bottom of falls.’

How to get to Emerald Creek Falls Cairns Sarah Latham

From here the path is marked by clear blue arrows, indicating the way forward. As you get closer you will be walking through large rocks and boulders, but keep an eye out for the blue markers and you’ll be fine.

How to get to Emerald Creek Falls Cairns Sarah Latham
How to get to Emerald Creek Falls Cairns Sarah Latham

You will come to a small creek to cross, there is now a small but sturdy bridge to cross easily.

How to get to Emerald Creek Falls Cairns Sarah Latham

Once you’ve crossed it, you will be walking over large, smooth rock face. Keep your eyes out again for the blue markers to stay on track.

How to get to Emerald Creek Falls Cairns Sarah Latham

You will cross another small bridge

How to get to Emerald Creek Falls Cairns Sarah Latham

Before turning right and walking along the rock until you see Emerald Creek Falls.

How to get to Emerald Creek Falls Cairns Sarah Latham

There is ample space here to spread out and enjoy the waterfall. This is a popular swimming location; however, the water is very cold so be prepared to enjoy a refreshing dip!

How to get to Emerald Creek Falls Cairns Sarah Latham

How to get to the Lookout

To view the falls and area from higher above, return back where you came until you are back to the sign. From here follow the path to ‘Falls Lookout’

How to get to Emerald Creek Falls Cairns Sarah Latham

Follow the slightly inclined path

How to get to Emerald Creek Falls Cairns Sarah Latham

Before arriving at the Emerald Creek Lookout with spectacular views across the top part of Emerald Creek Falls.

How to get to Emerald Creek Falls Cairns Sarah Latham
The view of the top of the falls
How to get to Emerald Creek Falls Cairns Sarah Latham
Looking down on the waterfall and the falls swimming area (top left corner)

This waterfall makes for a great day out. Enjoy.

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