Lake Eacham is a gorgeous segment of paradise in the middle of the Atherton Tablelands region.
Surrounded by a tropical oasis of lush greenery, Lake Eacham is a deep crater lake which tempts visitors with a refreshing cool dip on a hot day.
The lake is a whopping 66 metres deep and its circumference expands around 66 hectares, so you’ll have plenty of space for a swim!
70km away from Cairns, Lake Eacham is just an hour away – so it’s the perfect spot for your day trip away from Cairns.
A Crater Lake
Visiting the serene lake nowadays, it’s hard to imagine that this lake ever had such a violent past.
This lake was formed from volcanic activity 12000 years ago: Hot magma accumulated underground and it caused explosions that blew up through the ground. These explosions caused large cracks. Gradually, throughout hundreds of years, the crater became a vessel which collected a huge mass of water.
Trees have continued growing around the area, fringing the perimeter of the lake.
A natural oasis
An aquatic gemstone of the Atherton Tablelands region, Lake Eachham is popular for its tropical tranquillity and abundance of space for a good swim. Visitors are a bit limited to swimming in Far North Queensland, due to the danger of crocs and stingers that are sharing the ocean. The limitations on ocean swimming only make this swim spot even more special!
The lake is full of unique wildlife, from exotic birds to colourful butterflies. Check out the path that surrounds the perimeter of the lake, to soak up the tropical surroundings. There is a 3km trail path that surrounds the lake and you’ll be able to experience the tropical beauty of the area.
Can I swim in Lake Eacham?
Absolutely! There are plenty of places you can dip into the water at Lake Eacham. There is a main ramp by the picnic area where you can dump your stuff and take a dip into the lake. It gets busy during tourist season and weekends can get pretty packed too. But on a quiet period, you might end up having the whole place to yourself!
Other activities at Lake Eacham could include:
- Hiking the trail around the lake
- Kayaking
- Paddleboarding
- Floating on a floatation device
The freshwater croc of Lake Eacham
There are lots of crocodiles near Cairns…But is there a Lake Eacham croc? Yes, there is – but don’t be alarmed! He’s harmless and very shy.
Unlike saltwater crocodiles, freshwater crocs are not aggressive unless provoked. They’re also a lot smaller than saltwater crocs.
This croc is harmless unless provoked! This freshie tends to stay away from swimmers, as it’s very shy and only feasts on fish.
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.