Soaking Up the Views at Crawford’s Lookout

Soaking Up the Views at Crawford’s Lookout

Written by: Cameron Ward

Published: 08/28/2017

Reading time: 2 mins

Set in the highland region of northern Australia on the outskirts of Cairns, the Atherton Tablelands unfold in a diverse mixture of landscapes.

Here, you can see a collection of rainforests and wetlands home to native bird species and fascinating wildlife, like tree kangaroos and cute wallabies.

The region is home to the famous Waterfalls Circuit, which is a 17km long driving loop that takes in several picturesque waterfalls in the region.

As well as waterfalls and an eclectic collection of scenery, the Atherton Tablelands is also home to some stunning viewpoints. Crawfords Lookout is one of the best vantage points in the area.

It looks out over the point where the Colo River and the Capertree Rivers meet, spreading from east to west across the pretty scenery of the Wollemi National Park.

When you get to the lookout point, you can pull over and soak in the breath-taking panoramas. Position yourself so you can see between the trees, looking right down onto the Johnstone River.

Getting to Crawfords Lookout

Getting to Crawfords Lookout is an experience in itself. Set in the heart of the tablelands, you pass beautiful scenery as you venture towards this excellent viewpoint.

To get there, you need to drive north for around 17 kilometres after the Ampol service station at Colo Heights. On the way, you’ll pass the well signposted Grassy Hill Fire Trail. Continue on until you spot the Culoul Range Fire Trail, which appears on the left. Turn into the fire trail and follow the road as it sweeps through the landscape for 13 kilometres until you get to the designated parking area. There, you can park your car and easily walk to the lookout point. Don’t forget your camera to capture the mesmerising views!

Exploring the Atherton Tablelands and everything they have to offer is a pivotal part of getting to know Cairns and its surrounding landscape. You get to experience some of the most diverse scenery in Australia. Explore rainforests and wetlands that rub shoulders with sprawling savannas. Plus, you’ll also get to learn about the fascinating history and wildlife that characterise the area.

When it comes to lookout points and enjoying the views, Crawfords Lookout is one of the best. Promising excellent panoramas over three pretty rivers, it’s the perfect place to soak up the scenery. Marvel at this ancient landscape, and breathe in the fresh air.

Cameron Ward
Cameron Ward
Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.