A stunning area of mountainous rainforest just outside of Cairns, the Barron Gorge National Park is home to scenic native scrub, dramatic waterfalls and deep ravines – much of Australia’s beautiful bird species and other wildlife can be spotted here as well. Two relaxing yet encompassing ways to see this impressive national park are from high above on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, or directly through it on the tranquil Kuranda Scenic Railway.
The Atherton Tablelands stretch for as far as the eye can see from the vantage point of the Barron. Once inside the national park, visitors come face to face with the raging Barron River as it winds its way through the ranges, cascading over jagged rock formations and into valleys below, making for one of the most breathtaking waterfall settings in the Far North.
Postcard-perfect views from the beautiful Barron
This is one of the highest rainforest belts in Australia and the excellent views on offer from above the park are unbeatable. Well placed lookouts are scattered throughout the park, including on the Cableway and Scenic Railway. While camping isn’t allowed in the park, there is nearby accommodation in Cairns, Kuranda and Mareeba as well as campgrounds at Speewah Conservation Park along the National Park’s western edge.
Reaching the park is just a short trip from Cairns up the winding Kuranda Range. Arguably the best way to see the park is on a round-trip up to the Tablelands on the Skyrail and returning back to Cairns on the Kuranda Railway.
