At the end of Redlynch Intake Road. Swim only when the creek is calm and clear.
Directions in Google MapsNature's waterpark, twenty minutes away
Crystal Cascades is a series of small waterfalls spilling into big freshwater pools, shaded by rainforest at the end of Redlynch Intake Road.
A paved trail of about 1.5 kilometres runs from the picnic area past several swimming holes to the waterfall at the end. You don't need to walk all the way. Pick a pool, find some shade and stay.
Council keeps electric BBQs, drinking water, picnic shelters and a toilet block by the car park, which makes it an easy half day.
Swimming at Crystal Cascades
The pools have shallow edges for paddling and big flat boulders for lying in the sun. The rainforest canopy keeps the water cool even in the warmer months.
Use common sense with fresh water: don't jump or dive into pools you can't see the bottom of, and stay out when the creek is high or brown after rain. Water levels and currents can change quickly.
The walk along the creek
The paved trail is about 1.5 kilometres from the picnic area to the waterfall, passing the swimming holes on the way. Fairy Falls is a short stroll from the car park too, reached from the left of the car park.
Facilities at Crystal Cascades
- Electric BBQs, picnic shelter and picnic tables
- Drinking water
- Toilet block
- Walking track
- No dogs
Crystal Cascades: good to know
After rain
Stay out of the water if it's high, fast or discoloured.
No dogs
Council doesn't allow dogs at Crystal Cascades.
Go early
It's the city's favourite swimming hole on hot weekends.
Year-round
The canopy keeps the pools cool through summer.
Crystal Cascades in pictures
Swipe or use the arrows. Tap a photo to see it bigger.
Where Crystal Cascades is
Redlynch Intake Road
About 19 kilometres from the city, 20 to 25 minutes by car. The car park is at the end of the road, with the picnic area beside it.
Open in Google MapsMore fresh water near Cairns
Stoney Creek is a short drive away. If you'd rather float than swim, a river tubing or rafting trip is the next level.
Stoney Creek
Clear pools and small waterfalls in Barron Gorge National Park, 20 minutes from town.
See the guide →Behana Gorge
A steep sealed walk to Clamshell Falls and granite pools. You earn this swim.
See the guide →Red Arrow Walk
A one-hour rainforest climb with a city view, starting at the Botanic Gardens.
See the guide →Rainforest River Tubing
Float down a rainforest river on an inner tube.
Barron River Rafting
White water on the Barron River, close to the city.
Crystal Cascades FAQs
Can you swim at Crystal Cascades?
Yes, in the freshwater pools along the creek. Stay out when the water is high, fast or brown after rain.
How far is Crystal Cascades from Cairns?
About 19 kilometres, 20 to 25 minutes by car.
How long is the Crystal Cascades walk?
The paved trail from the picnic area to the waterfall is about 1.5 kilometres.
Are dogs allowed at Crystal Cascades?
No.
Are there toilets at Crystal Cascades?
Yes, plus electric BBQs, picnic tables, a shelter and drinking water.