Lake Eacham, Cairns Travel Guide

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Swim in crystal-clear waters, hike through lush rainforest, and discover the tranquility of this volcanic crater lake in the Atherton Tablelands.

Lake Eacham, a stunning volcanic crater lake on the Atherton Tablelands, offers crystal-clear waters for swimming, surrounded by lush rainforest. Formed over 9,000 years ago by volcanic activity, it's now a haven for wildlife and a popular spot for recreation.

A brief summary to Lake Eacham

Lake Eacham, Queensland, AU

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Lake Eacham.

Take a refreshing swim in the lake's clear, cool waters. The temperature is pleasant year-round due to the tropical climate.
Walk the 3km circuit track around the lake for stunning views and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Pack a picnic and enjoy the BBQ facilities available at the lake.
Visit the Rainforest Display Centre at the TREAT Visitor Centre on McLeish Road to learn more about the area.

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Explore Lake Eacham on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Lake Eacham, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

From Cairns, drive approximately 68km up the Gillies Range Road. Turn left onto Lake Barrine Road, then left again onto Lakes Drive. There are multiple parking areas available in the day-use area. Parking is free. The drive takes approximately 1 hour and 3 minutes.
Public Transport

From Cairns, take the 150 bus towards Atherton. Alight at Dempsey Street near Hooper Close and take a taxi to Lake Eacham. The bus journey takes approximately 1 hour and 31 minutes and costs between $110 - $140. The taxi from Dempsey Street to Lake Eacham will cost approximately $80 - $100.

Discover more about Lake Eacham

Lake Eacham (Yidyam) is a serene, clear blue lake nestled within a volcanic crater on the Atherton Tablelands of Queensland, Australia. This natural oasis, part of the Wet Tropics of Queensland World Heritage Site, is a popular destination for swimming, picnics, and enjoying the surrounding rainforest.The lake was formed approximately 9,130 to 12,000 years ago by volcanic activity. Molten magma rose from the Earth's mantle, heating the groundwater and causing massive explosions that created the crater. Over time, groundwater filled the crater, forming the lake we see today. The lake reaches depths of up to 65 meters.Lake Eacham is home to diverse flora and fauna. The surrounding rainforest is habitat for over 180 species of birds, turtles, fish, and even the occasional shy platypus. A 3-kilometer walking track encircles the lake, offering scenic views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.In 1888, the area's natural beauty was recognized, and the lake and surrounding shoreline were proclaimed a scenic reserve. In 1934, it was declared a national park, and later, in 1994, Lake Eacham National Park was merged with Lake Barrine National Park to form Crater Lakes National Park.