Local Guide
Local Guide
Clamshell Falls (otherwise known as Behana Gorge Falls) is a cascade waterfall located in Wooroonooran, approximately 1 hour drive south of Cairns.
You will need your own vehicle to access Clamshell Falls. It is a fresh water catchment and there is no risk of meeting wild saltwater crocodiles here.
Follow the Bruce Highway (A1) southbound from Cairns. Shortly after Gordonvale, you will turn right onto Behana Gorge Road. Travel in the shadow of Walsh’s Pyramid for a short distance and keep driving to the end of Behana Gorge road. You will cross over small railway tracks a couple of times so slow down at the crossings. Then, you’ll reach a small clearing car park beside some fenced council water property.
From the car park, the track is sealed the entire route following the length of the catchment water pipe. The Behana Gorge Water Catchment comes under the remit of Cairns Regional Council and provides fresh water to the wider Cairns area. The track undulates, following the curves of the land. We would advise a moderate level of fitness for this hike. It is a 3.3km walk from the carpark to the top of the falls and the last kilometre is quite steep. The route is mostly shaded by the rainforest. It is recommended that you visit early-mid morning to avoid walking the track in the middle of the day.
The track follows the length of the creek. About two thirds of the way is when you’ll start to hear the rushing and roaring water. You may spot a small fenced lookout from where you can view the falls. The track is not fenced so take care not to venture too close to the edge. Keep small children close and dogs on a leash.
When you reach the edge of the track, you’ll find another small signpost and fence that blocks the path. Close to the top of the track, look for a worn trail that will lead you down to the smooth boulders at the edge of the main pool. There is minimal scrambling to reach the water’s edge. This main swimming hole at the bottom of the top waterfall is quite deep and undeniably refreshing on a cool day. Be extra cautious and assess the water currents after heavy downpour as swimming may not be safe.
There is another smaller natural swimming hole a few boulders down from the main pool. This one is shallower and we would consider it safer.
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We acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Australians and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we live, learn and work.
