Crater Lakes National Park Tropical North Queensland

Paddling on Lake Barrine. Photo credit: Michael Petersen © Queensland Government

Photo credit: Darren Jew ©Tourism and Events Qld

Take your canoe and kayak for a majestic paddle along the edge of the lake. Photo credit: © Tourism Tropical North Qld

Walking tracks through the rainforest provide secluded forest-fringed views of the lake. Photo credit: © Queensland Government

Lake Barrine day-use area

A picturesque crater lake surrounded by cool rainforest. Giant bull kauri pines and privately-owned teahouse and boat cruises make Lake Barrine a popular stop for visitors.

Accessible by

  • Conventional vehicle

Attraction facilities

  • Lookout (natural and constructed)
  • Picnic tables (some sheltered)
  • Toilets (flush)
  • Wheelchair access (may require assistance)

With its clear crater lake surrounded by lush world heritage rainforest, Lake Barrine day-use area is a beautiful rest stop while exploring the Atherton and Evelyn Tablelands.

Enjoy a picnic at one of the picnic tables provided or alternatively, the privately-owned Lake Barrine Teahouse offers meals and drinks as well as guided boat cruises. Visitors are responsible for their own rubbish and rubbish bins are not provided. Take your rubbish with you when you leave.

A short stroll from the day-use area you will find the magnificent towering twin kauris. If you’re feeling adventurous, continue along the 5km Lake Barrine circuit track, which offers secluded forest-fringed views of the lake and excellent opportunities for viewing wildlife.

Take your canoe and kayak for a majestic paddle along the edge of the lake. You can swim at Lake Barrine, but care must be taken when boat cruises are running. Duck lice may irritate the skin of swimmers at certain times of the year.

Lake Barrine has an abundance of wildlife and several bird and mammal species are endemic to the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. More than 130 bird species have been recorded in and around the lake. With its shallow edges with reeds, water lilies and fallen trees, the aquatic environment of Lake Barrine is more favourable for waterbirds than that of Lake Eacham.

Remember, feeding the wildlife is prohibited and everything within Crater Lakes National Park is protected.

Getting there and getting around

Lake Barrine day-use area is in the Lake Barrine section of Crater Lakes National Park, about 60km drive up the Gillies Range from Cairns.

Access roads are sealed and suitable for conventional vehicles.

  • From Cairns, drive approximately 60km up Gillies Range Road, turn left on Lake Barrine Access Road and into the Lake Barrine car park.
  • Alternatively, drive approximately 8km from Yungaburra township along the Gillies Range Road and turn right into Lake Barrine Access Road.
  • The day-use area is two sections, near the top car park as well as near the twin kauris walk trailhead.

Wheelchair access

The privately-owned teahouse has ramps and wheelchair-accessible toilets.

Before you visit

Opening hours

Lake Barrine day-use area is open 24 hours a day.

Check park alerts for the latest information on access, closures and conditions.

Visiting safely

For more safety information see Visiting Crater Lakes safely.