Hidden at the back of a local suburb is one of the best hidden waterfall gems near Cairns; Here’s the complete guide to visiting Isabella Falls Cairns, just 20-minutes from the CBD.
Isabella Falls has long been a local secret known to few as an excellent waterfall and swimming hole located just a short hop from Cairns.
Isabella Falls might not be as impressive as other Cairns waterfalls like Nandroya Falls or Barron Falls. However, the fact that you’ll most likely have it all to yourself is a big perk for those looking to get off the beaten track.
There’s also a steep rope climb to reach the upper waterfall level, making it a great micro-adventure close to town.
Where is Isabella Falls?
Isabella Falls is located at the back of Edmonton, approximately 19 km or 20-25 minutes drive from Cairns.
I've pinned the exact location of the waterfall on the map below to make it easy for you to find.
Directions to Isabella Falls from Cairns
From Cairns, go south on the Bruce Highway A1, following signs for Edmonton. Your first right will be onto Mill Road, which you will need to follow through the two roundabouts before turning left onto Walker Road. Follow this road around the bend until it merges onto Rainforest Road and then Waterfall Cl.
Park anywhere on Waterfall Cl. You'll find the trailhead to Isabella Falls on the right side of the cul de sac, indicated by a signpost reading "Pathway".
If you don't have your own vehicle, this one will be a little tough to reach. I'd recommend renting a cheap car in Cairns or join in on a full-day waterfall tour instead.
RELATED: Crystal Cascades Cairns – Swimming Hole and Waterfall Guide
Isabella Falls Track and the Waterfall Levels
The track is a clear, worn track that follows the creek flow from the upper levels of the waterfall. Expect roughly 20 minutes of walking and root scrambling to reach the top level.
There are several levels at Isabella Falls, each offering a relatively small waterfall and shallow pools for swimming.
The first swimming hole is just under a metre deep, but is a great spot to hang out and shower under the refreshing flow of the waterfall.
Just around the corner is a second cascading waterfall that trickles down a vertical wall. There isn't a deep swimming hole here so I'd recommend climbing the eroding hillside to the left which leads to the upper level of Isabella Falls.
This track is very steep and involves a bit of root scrambling. Some local legends have secured some ropes to help you on the way up to the waterfall.
Be careful if you're bringing kids, this section is steep and it looks like the outer sections has been collapsing for some time.
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RELATED: Stoney Creek Falls Cairns – Waterfall and Swimming Hole
Upper Waterfall Level
The upper level of Isabella Falls Cairns is a three-level cascading waterfall that I'd say is close to 50 metres in height. The flow was gentle when I visited, but I could imagine that this waterfall would pump after a heavy downpour, making the climb really dangerous.
Once you reach the upper level, you can hang out and enjoy the view underneath the waterfall, or climb up the right side to find a shallow pool in the middle section.
The top section is more exposed due to being above most of the treecover below.
Cairns Accommodation Guide – Where to Stay
Visiting Cairns? The best places to stay are near the Cairns Esplanade or on the sunny Northern Beaches. Below are the top 4 options for varying budgets.
Alternatively, check out my Port Douglas accommodation guide for more ideas on where to stay in Far North Queensland.
1. Crystalbrook Riley Luxury
If luxury and location are what you're after, you can't beat this 5-star resort right in the heart of Cairns Esplanade.
2. Fitzroy Island Resort Mid-Range
Sleep out on one of the picturesque Great Barrier Reef Islands! Staying at Fitzroy often works out cheaper than staying in town & means you get more time to explore the reef, beaches, and rainforest walking trails.
3. Gilligan's Backpackers Budget
The best backpacker option for a great vibe in Cairns. Great place to meet like-minded travelers & features a pool, air-con rooms, a huge shared kitchen, & a great common area.
4. Pepper's Beach Club Palm Cove
Stay at the best beach resort in the heart of Palm Cove on Cairns's Northern Beaches!
More Cairns Waterfall Guides
I hope that you found this guide to visiting Isabella Falls Cairns useful. For more, check out this comprehensive Cairns waterfall guide.
You'll also find more Cairns waterfall blogs in the list below. Enjoy!
Adam
Wednesday 17th of May 2023
Is this walk dog-friendly?
Miranda
Tuesday 12th of May 2020
i grew up in cairns and never knew about this waterfall! great guide thanks