Nandroya Falls, Cairns
Nandroya Falls is situated in the heart of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area in Far North Queensland. While it's not as well known compared to other surrounding waterfalls, its lush rainforest and stunning cascades still offer a unique and immersive experience for those looking to connect with the beauty of the Australian wilderness! This article is your guide to visiting Nandroya Falls off the regular beaten path.
Where Is Nandroya Falls Located?
Nandroya Falls is located in Wooroonooran National Park in the Atherton Tablelands approximately 117km southwest of Cairns, or roughly a 1.5 hour drive. The walking track to Nandroya Falls provides a beautiful tropical setting, showcasing the rich biodiversity of the region.
How To Get To Nandroya Falls From Cairns?
The easiest way to get to Nandroya Falls is by car. Depending on where you are coming from, there are two routes you can take from Cairns. Option one takes you along the Bruce Highway (A1), turning right onto the Palmerston Highway at Innisfail. The second option travels up the Gillies Range, through the Atherton Tablelands and past Millaa Millaa Falls.
The Nandroya Falls Circuit Track starts from the Henrietta Creek camping car park, located just off the Palmerston highway. Follow the signs across the footbridge to the trailhead leading to the falls.
How Long Is The Walk to Nandroya Falls?
Depending on which walking track you choose, will determine how long the walk to Nandroya Falls will take. After parking your car at Henrietta Creek camping area, make your way across the footbridge and over the creek. This will bring you to the trailhead entrance which fork's in the path.
To the left, you’ll find the shorter route. The track is around 1.7km to Nandroya Falls and travels past the 10 metre tall Silver Creek Falls. The track to the right is approximately 3km one way, following the Douglas Creek. Both trails will meet to bring you to the refreshing waters edge of Nandroya Falls.
This walk can be done as a full circuit hike, returning by the alternate route. Allow yourself about 2-3 hours for a round trip to give yourself enough time to meander, swim and just be present in this magical realm of nature.
Is Nandroya Falls Easily Accessible?
Nandroya Falls is considered to be a Grade 3 walking track. This moderately challenging walk caters to various fitness levels, but it's important to note that there are no wheelchair-accessible facilities such as paved pathways available here. Winding its way through lush vegetation, the well-kept hiking trails provide the opportunity to spot indigenous flora and fauna, starting and ending at Henrietta Creek camping car park, which conveniently has public bathrooms.
What Is The Height Of Nandroya Falls?
Nandroya Falls boasts an impressive drop of about 50 metres (164 feet). The cascading curtain of water produces a refreshing mist, offering a reprieve from the warm, tropical North Queensland climate and adds to the enchantment of the surrounding woodland.
Can You Swim At Nandroya Falls?
The short answer is yes, you can swim at Nandroya Falls! Thankfully, you won’t find any crocodiles in the freshwater lagoon encircling the falls, but as with all natural water holes, caution should be exercised for potential hazards. Water conditions can vary, especially after periods of heavy rains such as those during the wet season and submerged rocks may be slippery underfoot. Always assess the conditions before jumping in and pay attention to any notices from local park authorities.
Seasonal Closures And Opening Times
Nandroya Falls is usually operational all day and year round. However, during the rainy months between October and May, the walking track may be closed due to flooding creeks. Additionally, temporary access to the falls and hiking trails can be closed due to maintenance of the trails, and management control of invasive flora and fauna. Check the Queensland Parks and Forests alerts for the most up to date information on access, closures and conditions.
Other Activities Near Nandroya Falls
From classical gems like Millaa Millaa, Josephine Falls and Babinda Boulders to elevated platforms at Mamu Tropical Skywalk, here is an overview of other popular attractions situated within the vicinity of Nandroya Falls in the Palmerston and Atherton Tablelands region.
Explore the Atherton Tablelands on one of these tours!
Wallicher Falls and Tchupala Falls
Wallicher and Tchupala Falls form a small collection of waterfalls in the Palmerston region of Wooroonooran National Park. Both are easily accessible via the Wallacha Falls and Tchupala Falls Parking Area just off the Palmerston Highway. A brief stroll to the left of the trailhead will take you upstream along the picturesque Henrietta Creek to Wallicher Falls. Following the trail to the right will take you to the cascading Tchupala Falls.
Millaa Millaa Falls
Located a short drive along the Palmerston Highway near the country town of Millaa Millaa, Millaa Millaa Falls is considered to be one of the most popular waterfalls attractions of Far North Queensland and for good reason! With a quick walk from the carpark, the falls are easy to reach. There are plenty of day tours that will visit this stunning attraction. But if you have your own car, be sure to arrive early so you can enjoy this spot before the crowds begin to arrive!
Mamu Tropical Skywalk
If you’re seeking a different perspective of the rainforest, the Mamu Tropical Skywalk offers an array of elevated walkways through the forest canopy, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Situated just a 5 minute drive down Palmerston Highway from Nandroya Falls, this eco-tourism attraction has a 2.5 km return walk to see all it's features. 1.5 hours is recommended to allow for rest stops and time to simply be present and enjoy the scenery. Although, if you’re short on time, you can choose to visit just a part of the walk and still get to appreciate the region’s rich biodiversity!
Ellinjaa Falls and Zillie Falls
Just a 20 minute drive from Nandroya Falls, both Ellinjaa and Zillie Falls are accessible by short walks of about 200m or so from the main road, located off the Palmerston Highway. Follow the signs to these falls that captivate visitors with their powerful cascades, encrusted with lush tropical jungle. they both provide a picturesque natural escape to cool off and take a dip in.
Is Nandroya Falls Worth Visiting?
Nandroya Falls is a hidden gem off the beaten path that not many know about. It offers a magical escape into the heart of the Tablelands, providing a perfect blend of moderate hiking trails and tranquility, away from the masses drawn to more readily accessible waterfalls. The awe-inspiring beauty of the cascades, coupled with the greenery, makes Nandroya Falls worth visiting for anyone wanting to explore the natural beauty of Tropical North Queensland.
Check out our most popular waterfall day tours from Cairns! Or live chat with our travel experts if you have any questions about travel in Cairns and the Atherton Tablelands.
