When you visit tropical Far North Queensland, you’ll almost certainly spend time in Cairns. For many visitors, the city is synonymous with turquoise waters and sunlit beaches. But locals know the real magic lies inland, in the lush Atherton Tablelands and the surrounding Cairns hinterland.
This region enjoys high rainfall and a warm tropical climate, creating a rich, green landscape threaded with rivers and creeks. While there are pockets of population, much of the hinterland remains unspoiled. It’s easy to reach, full of surprises, and offers scenery so beautiful that a single day trip might become the highlight of your stay in Cairns.
Walsh’s Pyramid – A View from the Top
Every year, locals put their fitness to the test in a race to the top of Walsh’s Pyramid — a striking, 3,000-foot mountain visible from the coastal plain. Even without competing, hiking the two-hour trail to the summit is a challenge worth accepting. The path is steep and demanding, but the panoramic view from the top makes every step worthwhile.
Lake Barrine – A Volcanic Gem
From Walsh’s Pyramid, follow the scenic Gillies Highway to Lake Barrine. This crater lake, formed by volcanic activity just 13,000 years ago, is still young enough to feature in Aboriginal Dreamtime stories. One tale speaks of two men who broke a sacred taboo, angering the Rainbow Serpent and creating this lake along with two others in the region.
Lake Barrine is a popular swimming spot. Floating on its calm surface, it’s easy to forget you’re in the middle of ancient volcanic country. A 4-mile walking track circles the lake, offering an easy stroll past towering rainforest trees — including the famous twin kauri pines, estimated to be 1,100 years old.
The Curtain Fig Tree – A Living Giant
Not far from Lake Barrine stands the Curtain Fig Tree, another Atherton Tablelands icon. This giant fig is over 800 years old, with aerial roots cascading like a natural curtain. It’s one of the most photographed trees in Australia and a must-visit for nature lovers.
Waterfall Circuit – Nature’s Photo Gallery
If you enjoy chasing waterfalls, the nearby Waterfall Circuit is paradise. Starting in the village of Millaa Millaa, the loop takes you to a series of spectacular cascades, including the famous Millaa Millaa Falls — a picture-perfect drop surrounded by lush ferns. Thanks to digital photography, you can capture as many angles as you like without worrying about running out of film.
Millaa Millaa also marks the southern entrance to the Atherton Tablelands and the starting point for the Misty Mountains Trails, an 80-mile network of rainforest walking tracks. Before you head out, stop at the Millaa Millaa Lookout for sweeping 180-degree views across the Tablelands to the coast near Innisfail.
Innot Hot Springs – A Rare Australian Experience
Continue about 35 miles inland to discover Innot Hot Springs. These naturally heated pools are a rarity in Australia, offering a relaxing soak in mineral-rich waters. Stay overnight in nearby accommodation or camp next to the springs to make the most of this rejuvenating stop.
Beyond the Beaches – The Real North Queensland
The Atherton Tablelands and Cairns hinterland offer a side of Far North Queensland that many visitors never see. From volcanic crater lakes and ancient rainforest giants to hidden waterfalls and natural hot springs, this is where the region’s true beauty shines.
If you’d prefer to escape the crowds, consider staying in a Cairns bed and breakfast. These smaller, locally run accommodations let you experience the warmth of Queensland hospitality while staying close to both the coast and the hinterland.
Step off the tourist trail and into the heart of the real north — you might just find it’s the part of your trip you remember most.
