Barron Gorge National Park

Barron Gorge National Park, near the rainforest village of Kuranda in the hills above Cairns, is a spectacular slice of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. Its showpiece is the dramatic Barron Falls, plunging into the deep gorge below — especially thunderous in the wet season — set amid ancient, lush tropical rainforest.

The park is steeped in scenery and history: the famous Kuranda Scenic Railway and the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway both traverse the area, offering unforgettable ways to take in the gorge and falls, while lookouts and walking tracks provide closer views for those exploring on foot. It's one of the great natural drawcards of the Cairns region.

With a 4.7 rating from more than 3,800 reviews, it's a much-loved destination. The falls' flow varies dramatically with the season, and access, lookouts, track conditions and the rail and cableway services all have their own arrangements, so it's worth checking current park and operator information before you go — and taking water, sun protection and insect repellent for the rainforest setting.