Clamshell Falls

Wander * Explore * Discover
Dec 5, 2021
2 min read

Updated: 3 days ago

Clamshell Falls

Clamshell Falls, located near Cairns in North Queensland, is a beautiful hidden gem nestled in Behana Gorge. Accessible via a long walking track, the falls cascade into natural rock pools that are perfect for a refreshing dip on a warm day. Surrounded by rocky cliffs, towering trees and lush ferns, Clamshell Falls offers a peaceful and scenic escape for families, hikers, and nature lovers looking to explore Cairns’ stunning wet tropics.

Clamshell Falls is a series of multi-tiered cascading waterfalls that flow down the steep upper reaches of the Gorge. The water flows from the western slopes of Mount Bellenden Ker, Queensland's second-tallest mountain.

It is located 32 kilometres South of Cairns in the beautiful Behana Gorge.

Behana Gorge is part of the Cairns Regional Council catchment, which supplies Cairns with fresh water from the rainforest. With pristine swimming holes, breathtaking views, and stunning cascades that flow down into the deep granite gorge, Behana Gorge is a spectacular sight all year round.

To enjoy this stunning waterfall, you need to walk up the sealed walking path, which is 3.2 kilometres long (one way) and meanders along next to the water pipe. It is pretty steep in some places with a continual uphill gradient. Take plenty of water, especially if it is a warm day. The good news is it's a nice, easy stroll back down to the carpark

When you reach Clamshell Falls, a fence blocks the path near the top of the track. As you look over the edge, you will see a well-worn path towards the swimming hole. Climb down the rocky path to the freshwater swimming hole, which is quite deep and very refreshing on a hot day.