Barron Gorge National Park is a must-see destination when visiting Cairns. The crowning jewel of the Park is Barron Gorge itself, a massive, spectacular waterfall that cascades down dark rocks, feeding into high rock pools (where locals love to swim) and tumbling into the river below.

Surrounded by the lush tropical rainforest for which Cairns is known, there are several great ways to experience Barron Falls.

First, take the Skyrail. The second station on this cable cart canopy journey from Smithfield to Kuranda is Barron Falls Station where you can get out and take a boardwalk through the rainforest to a spectacular lookout. The cable car itself also soars out into the open space above the gorge and you’ll get some spectacular photos from up there. too.

The other great way to see Barron Gorge is to take a ride on the Kuranda Railway. The tracks go right along the cliffs of the Gorge and the beautiful old steam train usually stops at a perfect bend, giving passengers an unparalleled view of the gorge below.

You can also self-drive to get there, or take transport to Kuranda and walk the 20-30 minutes it takes to get to the Gorge.

Learn from the Traditional Owners, the Djabugay Aboriginal People, discover their stories and their knowledge of the land. Discover the pioneers that first crossed the Gorge with wooden bridges and eventually with a giant cable car.

With a colourful history, beautiful surroundings, varied wildlife, stunning backdrops and a huge range of recreational opportunities, Barron Gorge National Park is one of Queensland’s most popular national parks.

Image Credit: Leo Casey

Located just a stone's throw from tropical Mackay, Keswick Island is nestled amongst the Great Barrier Reef’s stunning turquoise waters.

There’s much to uncover and plenty to see and do. It’s a whole world on natural experiences from tropical rainforests to the white sandy beaches that fringe them. Explore the delights of the vibrant coral reef and get close and personal with the marine life that calls this paradise home.

Staying there is a healthy part of the fun, with unspoilt wildernesses to explore combined with all the first-class amenities you’d expect from a five-star tourist destination. But Keswick is also a brilliant launching platform for a range of other great experiences on the Great Barrier Reef and around Mackay.

A new and wonderful addition to Mackay’s natural spaces, the Bluewater Trail in Mackay visits all of the important natural and recreational spaces in Mackay.

You’ll visit the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens, a fantastic recreational space in and of itself, with beautiful gardens and plenty of space.

The Bluewater trail then runs through the Sandfly Creek Environmental Walkway, a great walk and a great ride too. It then takes advantage of the Catherine Freeman Walk before passing the free three-tiered Bluewater Lagoon swimming facility, offering a chance to cool off with a dip into the waters.