Behana Gorge
Behana Gorge Road, Aloomba, Queensland, 4860
Within Northern Queensland’s Wooroonooran National Park, Behana Gorge is a fun place to hike and swim in the refreshing Clamshell Falls. It’s popular with in-the-know locals but is less visited by tourists. So pack your walking shoes, a bathing suit, and plenty of water, and discover the delights of Behana Gorge.
The basics
Behana Creek flows through the granite Behana Gorge, creating the tumbling Clamshell Falls and clear swimming holes beneath them. It’s a steep, moderately challenging hike to the falls along a sealed path that runs alongside the creek, surrounded by rainforest. You might get hot and sticky on the 45-minute, 2-mile (3.3-kilometer) one-way walk, but the waterfalls are a perfect place to cool off.
These waterfalls aren’t that well-known among travelers, especially compared to other attractions around Cairns, and most people visit independently. You can also take tubing tours through the Behana Gorge, in the Little Mulgrave River, downstream from Behana Creek.
Things to know before you go
There aren’t any facilities at the falls, including toilets, so bring water, snacks, and sunscreen.
It’s free to visit the gorge and the waterfalls.
Take care when there’s been a lot of rain as the rocks around the swimming hole may be slippery.
There’s no risk of saltwater crocodiles in this freshwater area.
How to get there
Behana Gorge is a 30-minute drive south of Cairns. You’ll need your own vehicle. Travel south until you reach Gordonvale, then follow the Bruce Highway until the turnoff onto the smaller Behana Gorge Road. Drive until you reach the parking lot for the start of the walk.
When to get there
The best time to hike to the falls is early morning or late afternoon when the sun isn’t so strong. The gorge is always open, but camping isn’t allowed here. The best season to visit Northern Queensland is the dry season, from May to October, when the weather is usually most comfortable for outdoor activities. The falls will be lower when it hasn’t rained much, though.
Swim at the Babinda Boulders
Behana Gorge and Clamshell Falls are in the northern part of the Wooroonooran National Park, and there are many other lovely falls and swimming holes throughout the park. The Babinda Boulders are further south and easily accessible from the Bruce Highway. Massive granite boulders encircle a cool, clear swimming hole on the Babinda River, with picnic spots and two free campsites.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!