Alright here it is, the most underrated waterfall in Tropical North Queensland. When visiting this part of Queensland, waterfall tours are a popular excursion which is why I was shocked when I made it to the top of Windin Falls I couldn’t believe how little I had heard of it, it was STUNNING. I happened to stumble upon the Windin Falls hike on a random blog post but my friends from the area didn’t suggest it when I asked what waterfalls we should check out and you don’t see photos of it all over the internet. That might be what makes it even more awesome. Read on for how to get to Windin Falls 😉
First of all, this experience is a MUST. It’s not on the guided waterfall tours (always a plus) and you have to hike a little to get there, but it is so worth. The view is insane, the water is crystal clear and you overlook the World Heritage Wet Tropics rainforest. Does it get better than that?
Yes. Right before the falls go over the edge, a shallow pool has been created where it is safe to sit and hang out- as long as there wasn’t a recent rainstorm. The water is freezing but its a really exhilarating feeling to jump in. (I highly recommend it). Also there were only 6 other people there when we were there, so that’s always a win.
I also highly recommend you read instructions on how to get to the Windin Falls hike. Preferably mine here (😉) but any will do. There are no signs whatsoever to get to these falls and you want to know which ways to turn!
How to get there
To start, it must be mentioned, you will need a car to experience this waterfall. It is not included on any tours and no public transit will get you out here. There are plenty of options for car rentals in Cairns – I recommend Jucy or Mini Car Rentals.
Alright, lets be honest we are all using Google Maps (or some kind of maps app these days) to get where we want to go. So you can put Windin Falls in Google Maps but the directions are not accurate as they show that you can drive straight to the Falls.
I recommend putting Lamins Hill Lookout into your maps app. The directions to get here are different depending on where you’re coming from. Once there, keep following Old Cairns Track until you hit the fork in the road. When this happens you want to go LEFT and continue down Old Cairns Track.
Drive for about 2.5 miles until you see a couple pull offs where it is obvious cars have been parking. This road is rocky and heads into the forest so just be sure to drive slow 🙂
We were told there would be a sign for the Falls at the car park area but it seems that sign has met its fate. See photo below for what to look for. If you go early, you will likely be the first people there.
If you drive past the car park, you will hit a fork in the road with two gates and you’ll know you’ve gone too far. After you park, gather your things, and walk a few minutes to the gates. You will want to go over the metal gate to the RIGHT and begin your hike.
From here, walk about 40 minutes (depending on your pace) until the path forks again and you see a sign for “Falls”. You can walk straight for the longer route or veer off to the right for a shorter – but steeper – hike down to the falls.
Walk for about 15 minutes and you will hear the water babbling on your right. Get excited, YOU’RE ALMOST THERE! Keep walking and you will see the water.
When to hike to Windin Falls
Quick answer: May- October
The best time of year to visit Tropical North Queensland is during the spring and winter months, or dry season, from May-October – remember you’re in the Southern Hemisphere so the seasons might be opposite of what you’re used to depending on where you’re from. The climate is tropical meaning it is warm year round but gets super hot and wet during summer.
In North Queensland summer is referred to as the wet season, with heavy rainfall most days January-March. The season has become increasingly less predictable so its best to avoid November-April to ensure you can still experience everything the region has to offer.
We hiked to Windin Falls the first week of September, which is a great time to visit the area as the weather is absolutely PERFECT. Every day is sunny and about 75°F. Every once in a while you will catch a rogue rainstorm which makes the Windin Falls hike VERY muddy for a few days after so I do not recommend visiting after heavy rain. Plus it makes the falls very powerful and dangerous to get into.
What to bring
- Sunscreen – Although most of the Windin Falls hike is covered, I recommend sunscreen if you plan to hang out at the falls for a while.
- LOTS of water – There is no water along the path and its quite a long walk. We only brought 2 bottles and it was not enough. So be better than us 😉
- Snacks or lunch – If you plan to hang out, I recommend bringing some snacks or lunch as it might be a while before you eat. I would say it takes at least an hour each way to hike plus it likely has taken an hour or so to drive from your original location.
- Hiking Boots – The path is uneven, with some steep areas and sometimes mud so I recommend boots for this one.
- Bathing suit – Be sure to wear a bathing suit underneath if you want to go for a dip! The water is absolutely freezing though- just a heads up.
- Camera – And of course, don’t forget a camera! You will want to take pictures to remember this place.
Where to stay near Windin Falls
Cairns
Cairns is the biggest “city” near Windin Falls. It has lots of accommodation options from Airbnbs to hotels and hostels. While you’re there, here are some ideas for what the eat, drink and do around town.
Camping near Windin Falls
The closest campground to Windin Falls is the Quinola Lakes Campground suitable for campervans and motorhomes.
The other option is Junction Campground at the end of Bartle Frere Camping Trail and is best suited for avid hikers/campers. The campsite is at the end of a hiking trail, meaning you will have to carry all of your equipment and there are no facilities in the area.
Airbnb in the Tablelands
I highly recommend spending more time in the Tablelands if you can! This was my favorite place to explore during my time living in Cairns – rolling hills and unique farmland with a tropical twist. Here are a few Airbnb recommendations:
The Lake Shack – A stylish stay for a little peace and quiet in nearby Yungaburra.
Rocky Top Retreat – A beautiful space with an outdoor tub and insane view in Peeramon.
Riverside Retreat – A simple, charming guest suite in Malanda with a small river out back that doesn’t break the bank.
If you want to explore more of the Tablelands, meet the people and learn about the culture of the area, check out this guided food tour. The host is super fun and it was one of my favorite Atherton Tableland experiences!
Are there other waterfalls worth exploring near Windin Falls?
YES! In fact, the area is famous for them. Check out my guide to waterfalls you can’t miss in Tropical North Queensland.
Love ya,
Hannah
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