Atherton Tablelands: Waterfalls, Rainforest & Scenic Highlands

Atherton Tablelands

  • A Waterfall Lover’s Paradise. The Atherton Tablelands is home to the famous Waterfall Circuit, featuring Millaa Millaa Falls, Zillie Falls, and Ellinjaa Falls.  It is perfect for swimming, photography, and rainforest adventures.

  • Cooler Climate & Scenic Countryside. Located at a higher altitude, the Tablelands offer a refreshing escape from the coastal heat, with rolling green hills, lush rainforest, and picturesque farmlands.

  • Lake Eacham and Lake Barrine are stunning Volcanic Crater Lakes. These crystal-clear, rainforest-fringed lakes are ideal for swimming, kayaking, and spotting turtles. Scenic walking tracks and tea houses offer delicious Devonshire tea.

  • Amazing Wildlife Encounters. The region is a haven for unique Australian wildlife, including the elusive platypus, tree kangaroos, rock wallabies, and various tropical bird species.

  • Historic Villages & Local Markets.  Visit charming Yungaburra and Herberton, where you’ll find vintage architecture, weekend markets, and fascinating historical attractions like the Herberton Historic Village.

  • Delicious Local Produce & Coffee Plantations. The fertile soil of the Tablelands produces some of Queensland’s best coffee, tropical fruits, dairy products, and handmade chocolates, and plenty of farm-to-table experiences exist.

  • Adventure & Outdoor Activities.  From hiking through lush rainforests and hot air ballooning over the countryside to exploring underground wonders at the Chillagoe Caves, the Atherton Tablelands is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Discover the Atherton Tablelands

The stunning  Atherton Tablelands is a region in Far North Queensland, Australia. It is located in the Atherton Shire and covers an area of approximately 4,000 square kilometres.

This region is has rich volcanic soil, which supports a diverse range of agriculture, including dairy, tea, coffee, and tropical fruits.

The Atherton Tablelands also contains several national parks and scenic waterfalls, making it a popular tourist destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Where are the Atherton Tablelands

The Atherton Tablelands is located in Far North Queensland, Australia. Atherton Tablelands are in the Atherton Shire, a local government area in the northern part of the state. The region covers an area of approximately 4,000 square kilometres and is located about 100 kilometres southwest of Cairns.

Things to do in the Atherton Tablelands

The Atherton Tablelands offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy:

  1. National Parks: Home to several national parks, including Wooroonooran National Park, known for its scenic waterfalls and diverse range of wildlife.
  2. Scenic drives: The scenic drive through the tablelands is a popular activity, with several scenic routes offering breathtaking views of the rolling hills and lush countryside.
  3. Agriculture and food tours. This region has fertile volcanic soil and many farms producing tropical fruits, dairy products, coffee, and tea. Visitors can take tours to visit these farms and taste the local produce.
  4. Outdoor activities: The Atherton Tablelands is a popular destination for hiking, camping, fishing, and birdwatching.
  5. Heritage and cultural attractions: The city has a rich cultural heritage, with several historic buildings, museums, and cultural centres to explore.
  6. Spa and wellness experiences: natural hot springs make it a popular destination for spa and wellness experiences.

Day tours of the Atherton Tablelands

Several day tours are available to the Atherton Tablelands, allowing visitors to experience what the region offers. Some popular day tours include:

  1. Scenic drive tours: These tours take visitors on a scenic drive through the rolling hills and lush countryside of the Atherton Tablelands.  Popular attractions such as scenic waterfalls, national parks, and local farms.
  2. Nature and wildlife tours focus on the region’s diverse flora and fauna. Visitors will enjoy national parks, guided walks, and wildlife viewing.
  3. Agriculture and food tours: Visit local farms, learn about the region’s dairy, coffee, and tropical fruit industries, and sample the local produce.
  4. Cultural and heritage tours: These tours explore the local history and culture of the Atherton Tablelands, visiting historic buildings, cultural centres, and museums.
  5. Spa and wellness tours: These tours take advantage of the region’s natural hot springs, offering visitors a chance to relax and rejuvenate in calming and scenic surroundings.

These are just a few examples of the many-day tours available to the Atherton Tablelands. Visitors can choose from various tours to suit their interests, and many tours can be customized to meet their specific needs.

Waterfalls in the Atherton Tablelands

The Atherton Tablelands is home to several beautiful waterfalls and popular tourist attractions in the region. Some of the most well-known waterfalls in the Atherton Tablelands include:

  1. Millaa Millaa Falls: This picturesque waterfall is located in the heart of the rainforest and is one of the most photographed waterfalls in Australia.
  2. Zillie Falls: This waterfall is in the Wooroonooran National Park, surrounded by lush rainforest and scenic hiking trails.
  3. Elinjaa Falls: This waterfall is located near the town of Atherton and is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and scenic picnic areas.
  4. Dinner Falls: This waterfall is located in the Wooroonooran National Park and is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking.
  5. Malanda Falls: This waterfall is located near Malanda and is a popular spot for picnicking, swimming, and viewing wildlife.

These are just a few examples of the many beautiful waterfalls in the Atherton Tablelands. Visitors can easily explore these waterfalls and many others by car or by taking a guided tour of the region.

Places to visit in the Atherton Tablelands

Atherton

Atherton is a town in the Atherton Tablelands region of Far North Queensland, Australia. It is the largest town in the Atherton Shire and is the regional centre for agriculture, tourism, and commerce.

Lush rainforest, rolling hills, and fertile farmland surround this region. It is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching. The town is also home to several cultural attractions.  The Atherton Heritage and Cultural Centre showcases the region’s history and culture. Visitors to Atherton can enjoy a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants and take tours of the local dairy and tropical fruit farms to sample the local produce.

Yungaburra

Yungaburra is a small town located in the Atherton Tablelands region of Far North Queensland, Australia. Known for its historic charm, Yungaburra is a popular tourist destination for its heritage architecture, cultural attractions, and scenic beauty.

Yungaburra is also a popular base for exploring the nearby national parks and scenic drives in the Atherton Tablelands. The town has a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the local Culture and cuisine. Visitors to Yungaburra can also enjoy various outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Millaa Millaa

Millaa Millaa is a small town located in the Atherton Tablelands region of Far North Queensland, Australia. It is known for its stunning waterfalls and lush rainforest scenery, making it a popular tourist destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The town is also a great base for exploring the nearby national parks, including Wooroonooran National Park. Millaa Millaa is surrounded by fertile farmland, and visitors can take tours of the local dairy and tropical fruit farms to sample the local produce. The town has a small population and a relaxed, rural atmosphere, making it a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Malanda

Malanda is a small town located in the Atherton Tablelands region of Far North Queensland, Australia.  This region offers scenic beauty, a rich cultural heritage, and a thriving dairy industry. Stunning lush rainforests and rolling hills surround Malanda.  It is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching. The town also has several cultural attractions, including the Malanda Falls Environmental Park.  Visitors can enjoy popular spots for picnics and swimming. Visitors to Malanda can also take tours of the local dairy and tropical fruit farms to sample the local produce and enjoy the town’s relaxed, rural atmosphere.

Frequently asked questions

Where are the Atherton Tablelands located?
The Atherton Tablelands is a scenic highland region located about an hour’s drive from Cairns in Tropical North Queensland. Sitting at a higher altitude, it offers a cooler climate, stunning waterfalls, crater lakes, and rolling farmlands, making it a perfect day-trip destination from Cairns.

What are the must-see attractions in the Atherton Tablelands?
The Atherton Tablelands is packed with natural wonders and hidden gems! Some of the must-see highlights include: Millaa Millaa Falls – One of Australia’s most famous waterfalls Lake Eacham & Lake Barrine – Stunning volcanic crater lakes perfect for swimming The Waterfall Circuit – Featuring Zillie Falls, Ellinjaa Falls, and Millaa Millaa Falls Yungaburra – A charming historic village with a platypus-viewing area Curtain Fig Tree – A spectacular 500-year-old strangler fig Coffee & Dairy Farms.

Can you swim in the waterfalls and lakes in the Atherton Tablelands?
Yes! Many of the waterfalls and lakes in the Atherton Tablelands are perfect for swimming, kayaking, and relaxing. Lake Eacham and Lake Barrine are croc-free volcanic crater lakes with crystal-clear water, while Millaa Millaa Falls is a favourite swimming spot surrounded by lush rainforest. Always check for signs and local advice before swimming, especially after heavy rainfall.

Is the Atherton Tablelands good for wildlife spotting?
Absolutely! The Atherton Tablelands is a wildlife lover’s paradise. You can spot platypuses at Yungaburra, tree kangaroos in the rainforest, rock wallabies, and various colourful bird species.

How do I get to the Atherton Tablelands from Cairns?
The Atherton Tablelands is easily accessible by car from Cairns via the Gillies Range Road, Kennedy Highway, or Palmerston Highway. The drive takes about one to two hours, depending on your route and stops along the way. !

Discover the Magic of the Atherton Tablelands

The Atherton Tablelands is a region bursting with natural beauty, adventure, and unforgettable experiences. From stunning waterfalls and volcanic crater lakes to rolling green hills, charming villages, and incredible wildlife, there’s something for every traveller to enjoy. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls on the famous circuit, taking a refreshing dip in Lake Eacham, or sipping locally grown coffee in Yungaburra, visiting the Atherton Tablelands is the perfect way to experience the diverse landscapes of Tropical North Queensland.

With easy access from Cairns, you can explore this breathtaking region in a day tour or take your time on a longer stay. However you choose to visit, one thing is certain—the Atherton Tablelands will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

Start planning your Atherton Tablelands adventure today!

For a more comprehensive guide to the Atherton Tablelands, see visitathertontablelands.com

Places to See