Crater Lakes

Lake Eacham and Lake Barrine are volcanic crater lakes formed by a single giant explosion. Surrounded by lush rainforests, the lakes are in an area of outstanding natural beauty and are now protected as part of the Crater Lakes National Park.

Lake Eacham is ideal for swimming, canoeing, bushwalking, and bird watching. No motorised boats are allowed on the lake. It is 60 metres deep, and features a pontoon great for diving into the deep water. A large grassy area is perfect for picnics and sunbathing. Barbeque facilities are also available.

Surrounding the lake is a 4-km water track, which begins and ends at the car park. The circuit walk provides an opportunity to experience the Tablelands rainforest and see some wildlife such as the musky rat-kangaroo, and more than 100 bird species. This walk is suitable for all ages because it is flat and paved the entire length.

Wet Tropics Volunteers often provide guided walks and set up displays, including bird watching information.

Lake Barrine is the place to go for a Devonshire tea or a light meal at the historic teahouse. Formed by the same volcanic processes as Lake Eacham, Lake Barrine is surrounded by rainforest right down to the waters edge, where much of it is reflected in the secluded bays.

Many of Far North Queensland's timbers can be seen around Lake Barrine, including the giant Kauri Pines. The wildlife likely to be spotted includes Eastern Water Dragons, and Amethyst Pythons sunning themselves on logs.

The teahouse offers regular guided boat tours of the lake 4 times daily. It is a great opportunity to see turtles, eels and waterbirds. There is also a 100m walk to two giant kauri trees or a longer circuit walk around the lake (5km, 1.5 hours).

Extensive environmental displays and general visitor information can be found at the Lake Barrine Teahouse. Accommodation in this area is very popular with birdwatchers and after-dark wildlife spotlighters.