Discover 26 awesome things to do in the Atherton Tablelands in Far North Queensland, from unmissable hikes to epic bucket-list activities!
The Atherton Tablelands is one of Australia’s most underrated travel & adventure destinations. This region has some of the best national parks, rainforests, waterfalls and hikes in Far North Queensland, as well as some of the best outdoor activities and unique wildlife experiences like spotting wild platypus!
After spending close to a year exploring Far North Queensland, I’ve written this complete guide to help you explore the Atherton and Evelyn Tableland at your own pace with a complete list of fun things to do.
I’ve linked to independent blog posts for each attraction throughout offering more information on what to expect, logistics, & more photos. Also, at the end you’ll find a full Tablelands travel guide with info on how to get there, get around, and tour recommendations.
Things to Do in The Atherton Tablelands
The Atherton Tablelands region of Queensland spans a vast 65,000 square kilometres, stretching from Tully to Kuranda in the North and all the way to Chillagoe in the West. As you might expect, there are so many points of interest in this vast region!
If you're in a rush, I recommend travellers to drive the Millaa Millaa waterfall circuit, check out the Crater Lakes, and do at least one rainforest hike like Nandroya Falls or the Hypipamee Crater.
Below are the best nature tours you can book to the Tablelands from Cairns right now.
1. From Cairns: Wilderness & Waterfall Tour Top Pick
The easiest way to see the best of the Tablelands region in an epic day trip from Cairns. Includes some amazing waterfalls, the Curtain Fig Tree, platypus spotting, and a swim at Lake Eacham.
2. Rainforest & Wildlife By Night Wildlife
A wildlife tour of the World Heritage Listed Wet Tropics Rainforest in the Tablelands from Cairns. Spot unique and amazing wildlife during the day and into the night.
3. Hot Air Ballooning Bucket-List
Experience the beauty of Far North Queensland during an epic sunrise balloon flight from Mareeba!
1. The Millaa Millaa Waterfall Circuit
Millaa Millaa Falls is Australia's most photographed waterfall, and it's quite easy to see why. This beautiful 18-metre cascade falls perfectly into a deep pool surrounded by tropical ancient rainforest.
If you're visiting the Atherton Tablelands and looking for things to do, definitely make sure to stop by and drive the Millaa Millaa Circuit. You'll also find two more epic waterfalls just nearby, including Ellinjaa Falls and Zillie Falls– both of which are easily accessible.
2. Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Trip From Mareeba
Are you looking for one of the most exhilarating experiences in the Tablelands? If so, you might be interested in this epic sunrise hot air balloon trip departing from Mareeba.
This is a popular trip for those staying in Cairns as it includes an early-morning pickup for the long drive out to Mareeba. This hot air balloon experience is one of the most affordable in Australia.
It features a roughly 90-minute float over the pristine Tablelands countryside with views extending out to the Great Dividing Range.
Read More: Hot Air Balloon Experience (Tablelands)
3. Crystal Caves
One of the cheapest attractions worth checking out at the Atherton Tablelands is the Crystal Caves.
This is one of Australia's largest privately owned collections of natural prehistoric crystals and fossils and an entry ticket costs $25 online.
There's 300 sqm of grottos and you'll get to heart the story of Rene Boissevain, a passionate collector, of some of the world's most precious and rare stones. There's even a massive amethyst crystal found in South America and worth over $120,000 USD.
4. Windin Falls
Windin Falls is one of Far North Queensland's waterfall icons and is located in the Wooroonooran National Park. Hikers can reach the top of this megalithic waterfall for incredible views over the gorge below.
This is easily one of the best free things to do in the Atherton Tablelands if you're chasing waterfalls and hikes!
Tip: Visit Windin Falls for sunrise for the best scenes!
5. Herberton Historic Village
Are you interested in learning about unique Australian history on your visit to the Tablelands? The Herberton Historic Village is an open-air museum located in Herberton, approximately 15 minutes south of Atherton.
This village features 8 live working displays including billy tea making, heritage train rides, blacksmiths and more. You'll also get to see a 130-year-old pioneer homestead!
There's an entrance ticket to get into the village, but it's very affordable and helps with the maintenance of this historic site and employs locals.
Tip: Skip the line & save money by booking your Herberton Historic Village Entrance Ticket in advance online. (Simply show the QR code once you arrive).
6. Davies Creek & Emerald Creek
I've already mentioned that many of the waterfalls in Cairns and the Tropical North region are located in the Tablelands! But, what you might not know is that the Atherton Tablelands also has some of the most unique waterfalls!
If you're up for a change from the tropical rainforest terrain, head over to Davies Creek and Emerald Creek, just north of Atherton. These regions feature dryer, eucalypt-dominant forests and beautiful rock formations.
You can even bring your dog to one of these waterfalls, which is rare up here!
7. Crater Lakes - Lake Eacham & Lake Barrine
One of the most popular places to visit in the Atherton Tablelands is the Crater Lakes National Park. This park is home to two volcanic lakes; Lake Eacham, and Lake Barrine. Don't worry, these are the remnants of an extinct volcano, and won't be erupting any time soon.
Lake Eacham is a crystal clear, blue volcanic crater lake located at the end of the long Gillies Range Road from Cairns. When people ask for things to do in the Atherton Tablelands, a visit and swim in Lake Eacham is often recommended as a must-do activity.
Lake Eacham features picnic areas and is salt-water croc-free, meaning it is safe to swim. However, there is a harmless, resident freshwater crocodile who lives here– try to spot him! It's surrounded by beautiful rainforest and a popular spot for kayaking and spotting rare bird species.
While Lake Eacham is more popular than Lake Barrine, I'd say they're both worth a visit!
8. The Curtain Fig Tree and Cathedral Fig Tree
A lot of people visit Cairns, the Atherton Tablelands and the Tropical North in only 3 days or less! They come to see the reef and the rainforest. If you're on a really tight schedule like this and looking to see the beauty of the World Heritage Listed rainforest, stop by the Curtain Fig tree near the town of Yungaburra.
The walk to the Curtain Fig tree is less than 2 minutes along a suspended boardwalk. This is an attraction to do in the Atherton Tablelands for people on a tight schedule!
There is also a similar tree known as the Cathedral Fig, located on Boar Pocket Rd, off the Gillies Highway near Lake Barrine.
9. Platypuses At Yungaburra
While we're here in Yungaburra, head down to the platypus viewing platform for a chance to spot one! You'll find this platform hidden above Peterson Creek near Nicks's restaurant (you can park your car in front).
If you're having trouble finding it, it's actually got its own Google Maps pin "Yungaburra Platypus Viewing Platform".
Tip: If you don't spot any from the platform, walk around to the trail on the right, which leads under the bridge and continues on a short loop alongside Peterson Creek. You'll often see them hiding here. GPS Coordinates: 17°16'31.4"S 145°34'45.4"E.
10. Wooroonooran National Park
The Daintree is by far the most well-known rainforest region in Far North Queensland. But, what if I told you that there is a National Park even more breathtaking and with many more waterfalls and hiking trails?
After spending a very long time photographing and documenting outdoor adventures in the Tropical North, The Wooroonooran National Park has earned its spot as my personal favourite! It's even home to Queensland's highest mountain; Mount Bartle Frere.
For those looking for things to do around the Tablelands, check out these awesome hikes and waterfalls in this park:
- Nandroya Falls
- Crawford's Lookout
- Wallicher and Tchupala Falls
- The Mamu Tropical Skywalk
- Windin Falls (above)
- West Mulgrave Falls (only for the well-prepared)
Visitors can access this park from Innisfail or from the Atherton Tablelands.
11. Malanda
Malanda is a small, rural town in the Atherton Tablelands that is very scenic and features its very own waterfall and swimming hole. Additionally, this township is synonymous with milk and cheese, since the popular brand Malanda Milk is sold in many parts of Australia.
If you're on a road trip and looking for things to do in the Atherton Tablelands, stop by Malanda to cool off at the local waterfall/swimming hole.
12. Paronella Park
Paronella Park is an Atherton Tablelands tourist attraction that's really been doing the rounds on social media lately.
Book: Paronella Park Admission Ticket
This park features castles, tunnels, bridges and fountains surrounded by 7500 trees in a prized tropical garden. There's also a waterfall here that's definitely worth checking out.
13. Millstream Falls
At the far end of the Atherton Tablelands lies the township of Ravenshoe. This region is the highest town in Queensland by altitude and is set within a unique landscape featuring two impressive waterfalls.
Big Millstream and Little Millstream Falls, as they're called, are two separate waterfalls on the same watercourse. Little Millstream is better for swimming but I'd definitely recommend adding both of these falls to your own list of things to do in the Atherton Tablelands!
14. Chillagoe Caves
Chillagoe - Mungana Caves National Park is the furthers west region that can be considered part of the Atherton Tablelands. This area has a dramatic volcanic history and remnants of this are everywhere.
Visiting the Chillagoe caves and lava tunnels is a deep dive into a land before time. Here, you'll discover dramatic outback landscapes, ancient coral reefs, caves and unique Australian wildlife.
The drive out to Chillagoe is quite long. If you find yourself in Cairns and you're looking for unique things to do in the Atherton Tablelands, consider an organised trip to Chillagoe.
15. Kahlpahlim Rock Hike (Lamb's Head)
For those seeking a bit more adventure in their trip to the Atherton Tablelands, head out to Mareeba for an epic hike up to Kahlpahlim Rock, or Lamb's Head.
This hike begins just past Davies Creek Falls (return here to cool off after), in the Davies Creek National Park.
Expect around 4-5 hours to complete this 18 kilometre hike and be rewarded with some of the best views available in the Tablelands. If you're up for it, leave early and try to make it up there for sunrise!
16. Turtle Rock Hike
The Turtle Rock hike is another worthwhile walk in the Tablelands. This one is a little tamer than the Kahlpahlim Rock trail, which might be better suited for those on a tight schedule.
Visitors will find Turtle Rock in the neighbouring Dindin National Park at the end of a much shorter 1.5-2 hour walk.
Hikers can also walk this one in a circuit loop, which is refreshing as you don't need to double up on your tracks!
17. Tully River White Water Rafting
If you're visiting Cairns already, then you'll know that the white water rafting trip down the Barron River is one of the best tours you can book!
However, you might not know that the Tully River rafting trip is actually much more epic! The rapids on the Tully River are more impressive and it's certainly worth the short drive down from the Tablelands.
$5 OFF: Tully River Whitewater Rafting when you use code: OLLY5
18. Granite Gorge (Rock Wallabies)
Granite Gorge is a beautiful camping spot in the Atherton Tablelands. If you're exploring the region by camper or tent, definitely check this place out.
However, with that said, I'd recommend checking out Granite Gorge even if you're not staying the night!
This awesome place features a beautiful gorge with freshwater swimming spots and abundant wildlife! One of the highlights is meeting the rock wallabies, who are super friendly!
19. Rainforest Wildlife Spotting by Night (and Day)
The Wet Tropics region is full of unique and amazing native wildlife. While you'll most likely spot kangaroos, lizards, and possums durign the day, there are many creatures you can only see during the night.
That's why this nocturnal wildlife spotting tour is rated as one of the top things to do in the Tablelands for nautre lovers. This is led by an expert guide to help you find the elusive platypus and Lumholtz tree kangaroo in their natural habitats.
20. The Hypipamee Crater
One of the more unique places in the Atherton Tablelands is the Hypipamee Crater walk near Ravenshoe.
This crater is a huge, volcanic sinkhole filled up with water. The water colour is very green from the algae growth, which makes for excellent photography opportunities.
There's also a great waterfall along this track called Dinner Falls– definitely add it to your list!
21. Cannabullen Falls
Cannabullen Falls is one of my favourite waterfalls in Far North Queensland and one that is bound to blow you away! Determined hikers will find this megalithic cascade deep in the Tully Gorge National Park.
This one is definitely a bit off the beaten path, but an awesome trip for those keen on adventure!
22. Tully Gorge
The Tully Gorge was once a tourism highlight for the Tropical North. However, since they dammed the water upstream, the once magnificent waterfall has now been reduced to a mere trickle.
However, don't let that dissuade you from making a trip out here. The Tully Gorge Lookout is one of the most incredible viewpoints in Australia, especially if you get out here early! It's a destination that many overlook these days, so do something unique on your trip to the Atherton Tablelands!
23. Innot Hot Springs
Yep, the Tablelands really has it all. While hot springs probably won't excite you too much in the hot season, they are a hit in the dry, where temperatures are much lower than in Cairns.
The Innot Hot Springs is a free activity in the Atherton Tablelands and you'll find it near Ravenshoe. These warm pools are deep enough to sit and bathe in, and can get very hot!
24. Lake Tinaroo
Another great place to visit in the Tablelands for a day of swimming, kayaking, and cooling down is Lake Tinaroo. This lake is much bigger than the nearby crater lakes and is a popular spot for activities like sailing, skiing, swimming, fishing, red clawing and bird watching.
If you've come up to the Tablelands for fishing, then Lake Tinaroo is a good option. Many people come up here year-round to chase the famous sportsfish; barramundi. However, you'll need a permit, which you can buy from the Lake Tinaroo Village.
25. Spot Tree Kangaroos
If you're a wildlife enthusiast and wondering what to do in the Tablelands, you'll want to add spotting a tree kangaroo to your list.
Tree Kangaroos are not another drop bear, they're a real animal! They look like small kangaroos but hang around in the canopy of the tropical rainforests. And, one of the best places to spot them in Australia is the Atherton Tablelands. You'll get a chance to see them in several national parks throughout the region.
However, thse guys are the most illusive animal! I've hiked all over the region and have yet to spot one. However, sometimes even first-time visitors to the Tablelands get to spot one! I'm always keeping my eye out.
26. Barron Falls
Barron Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in Far North Queensland and is located near Kuranda. Din Din Falls is its indigenous name, and it's a majestic 250 meters of cascading water forcing its way down the deep Barron Gorge.
This waterfall is easy to get to and is one of the most popular waterfalls in the Wet Tropics Area. The water force will vary depending on the season. However, to see this waterfall in full force, you’ll need to visit in the wet season.
More Things to Do in the Tablelands
Is this list of 26 not enough for you? Here are a few more activities and highlights you might want to check out.
- Atherton Forest Mountain Bike Park
- The Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail
- Evelyn Tableland
- The Mareeba Wetlands
- Stop by the Mt Uncle Distillery
How to Get to the Atherton Tablelands in Queensland
While many travellers overlook the Atherton Tablelands when exploring Cairns– the truth is that they usually end up visiting. That's because many of the best outdoor attractions, rainforests, and waterfalls in Far North Queensland are found here, with tours and buses running from Cairns daily.
The Atherton Tablelands region of Queensland spans a vast 65,000 square kilometres, stretching from Tully to Kuranda in the North and all the way to Chillagoe in the West.
The Tablelands Region is a large plateau rising 700 metres above sea level from Cairns. If you're wondering how to get from Cairns to the Atherton Tablelands, there are three main routes to get here if driving yourself.
The most popular is via the Kennedy Highway north of Cairns. This begins climbing the steep MacAlister range from Smithfield (Kuranda Range Road) and passes Kuranda on the way.
The other two options include climbing the Gillies Range Road (steep and winding), south of Cairns and the Palmerston Highway from Innisfail.
Car Rentals in Far North Queensland
Cairns is one of the most popular travel destinations in Australia and car rentals quickly book out!
I've missed out on cars before & recommend booking well in advance. I always use DiscoverCars as they compare the widest range of rentals across dealerships in the Far North.
Best Atherton Tablelands Organised Trip From Cairns
If you find yourself in Cairns without a car and you're itching to tick off some of the epic things to do see in the Atherton Tablelands, then your best bet is to book an organised tour.
Luckily, since there are so many attractions and highlights in the Tablelands, you will find many tours.
By far, the most bang-for-buck trip is the Waterfall, Rainforest and Wildlife Trip by Cairns Adventure Group. This costs less than $130 and you get a lot for your money including:
- Hotel pickup/drop off
- Millaa Millaa Falls
- Mount Hypipamee
- Curtain Fig Tree
- Platypus Spotting in Yungaburra
- Swim in Lake Eacham
- Morning & Afternoon Tea
- Lunch at Malanda Pub
About the Atherton Tablelands
The region considered to be the Atherton and Evylyn Tableland are named after the town of Atherton, but is often just referred to as "The Tablelands" by locals. The name Atherton stems from a remarkable early settler known as John Atherton. He was an explorer by heart and is famous for overlanding sheep from New South Wales to Rockhampton in North Queensland.
He was among one of the first Europeans to settle in the area in 1870.
However, indigenous populations have long used the rainforest-rich lands now known as the Atherton Tablelands. In fact, Australia recognises that over 12 different tribes of aboriginal people are indigenous to this region. The most common are known as the Mbabaram people.
National Parks in the Atherton Tablelands
As you'll notice, most people aren't looking for things to do in Atherton (the largest town). Instead, you'll want to head out to the national parks! Below are the best national parks in the Tablelands region.
- Kuranda National Park
- Davies Creek National Park
- Curtain Fig National Par
- Mt. Hypipamee National Park
- Millstream Falls National Park
- Wooroonooran National Park
- Dinden National Park
- Mount Lewis National Park
- Hastings Swamp National Park
- Danbulla National Park
Should I Stay in Cairns, Port Douglas Or the Tablelands?
A lot of people have asked me this and my immediate reaction is always to say all three! If you've got the time on your trip to Cairns, I'd dedicate at least 20% of that to spending it in the Tablelands Region since there are just so many things to do up here.
Read more:
Below you'll find my recommendations for places to stay in the Tablelands.
Where to Stay in the Atherton Tablelands
With all of the epic things to do in the Atherton Tablelands, you're probably a little overwhelmed! Don't worry, below I've got recommendations for the three best places to stay here to help you plan your visit.
1. Atherton Hinterland Motel Value
A convenient motel with clean rooms located just a 10-minute walk into Atherton town. Each room has a fridge, microwave, TV, and kitchenware
2. Chambers Wildlife Rainforest Lodges
Beautiful lodges set in the tropical rainforest near Lake Eacham. Features an on-site pool and great opportunities for wildlife spotting off the verandah!
3. Crater Lakes Rainforest Cottages Top Pick
The best-rated accommodation in the Tablelands based on customer reviews. Located in a superb location in the rainforest. Each cottage has a spa bath & private deck with BBQ.
How to Get Around in the Atherton Tablelands
The Atherton Tablelands is a big area to cover! Unless you've booked an organised tour, you'll struggle getting to all the sites and attractions by public transport.
That's why, the best way to get around is to have your own car. While you will find some car rental places up in Mareeba and Atherton, I recommend just booking one in Cairns for a few reasons.
Firstly, there is more variety in Cairns, which means you'll get a better price. Secondly, most visitors fly into Cairns, meaning it's more convenient to pick your car up from the airport. And, lastly, the drive up to the Atherton Tablelands is very scenic and realistically not very far at all!
Now, to help you book a car or camper, I've included some resources below.
- DiscoverCars– a rental car comparison site similar to Skyscanner. Great way to compare rates and availability across companies.
- Spaceships Vans: Budget, backpacker-style campers. There’s a depot in Hobart – the cheapest option.
- Jucy Vans – Another budget/backpacker option with a bit more variety to choose from. Also has cheap cars. You’ll have to pickup and drop off in Melbourne.
More Far North Queensland Adventure Destinations
I really hope this travel guide to the best things to do in the Atherton Tablelands, Queensland has been useful in helping you plan your trip to Far North Queensland.
As you might have guessed, I've spent a great deal of time photographing and documenting all the best adventures and attractions in this region. If you're up for more adventures like exploring the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef, you'll find everything you need to know in the posts below.
- 60+ Things to do in Cairns - my ultimate Cairns and FNQ travel resource covering the best activities, hidden gems, and unmissable experiences.
- Cairns Hiking Guide - a huge list of epic rainforest, waterfall, and lookout hikes in Cairns.
- Cairns Waterfalls - a huge list of epic waterfalls that I've visited in Cairns and the surrounding tropics.
- Cairns Islands - discover my favorite Great Barrier Reef islands near Cairns and Port Douglas.
- Cairns Tours - my roundup of the best tours you can book in Cairns and FNQ, from the Great Barrier Reef to the Daintree Rainforest.
- Cairns Packing List - tips on what to pack for a trip to Far North Queensland.
- Top Things to Do in Port Douglas - a comprehensive guide to the sleepy Far North Queensland town of Port Douglas.
- Epic 5-Day Cairns Itinerary - my suggested adventure itinerary if you only have 5 days to spend in Cairns.
- Cape Tribulation Travel Guide - discover where the rainforest meets the reef at one of my favourite places in Australia.
- Magnetic Island Travel Guide - your ultimate resource for visiting "Maggie" near Townsville.
- Accommodation Resources: Discover where to stay in Cairns, the best hotels in Port Douglas and my Cape Tribulation accommodation guide.
Leigh
Sunday 4th of September 2022
Curtain Fig and Cathedral Fig are two separate (though similar) trees. Cathedral Fig is located on Boar Pocket Rd, off the Gillies Highway near Lake Barrine. And Tully River Rafting is NOT part of the Tablelands.