Lake Eacham: Volcanic Lake in the Tropical Rainforest

Crater lake in the tropical rainforest

Lake Eacham is a closed, water-filled volcanic crater, isolated from all other waterways. Lush tropical rainforest surrounds the lake; Lake Eacham is also part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. As a DIWA wetland, it is nationally significant. Lake Eacham was declared a national park in 1934. Its volcanic formation, rainforest landscape and classification as a wetland come together here, while its national park status adds a historical dimension to these natural features.

Activities at the lake

You can swim or snorkel along the shores of Lake Eacham. Non-motorised boats such as canoes, kayaks and paddleboards are welcome; a boat ramp is available at the lake. You can choose between activities in the water and using one of these boats. The Lake Eacham circuit track is open 24 hours a day. Check current park alerts before setting out if you plan to take this track.

A short, self-guided 700-metre walk starts at the picnic area. Along with water activities, you can add a short walk to your visit.

The Lake Eacham day-use area has picnic tables, shelters, toilets and barbecue facilities. Two viewing platforms offer uninterrupted views of the lake and its inhabitants. The platforms give you a different perspective from spending time right by the water.

Getting there and accessibility

Lake Eacham is about 68 kilometres from Cairns; the drive via the Gillies Highway takes a little over an hour. The access roads are sealed and suitable for conventional vehicles. Use the drive time as a rough guide and take current road conditions into account when travelling.

With assistance, the toilets and some paths and boardwalks at Lake Eacham are wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is important for your visit, check current conditions in advance.

Display Centre and Nursery

The Rainforest Display Centre on McLeish Road in Lake Eacham provides information about tropical rainforest and the Traditional Owners’ land management before clearing. It is open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 am to 1 pm, except on public holidays. The QPWS Rainforest Restoration Nursery is on the same road in Lake Eacham; it is open Fridays from 7 am to 12 pm, except on Good Friday and during Christmas week.

The regular opening hours of both places overlap on Fridays from 9 am to 12 pm. If you plan to visit both, note the respective exceptions and check the hours before travelling. On Fridays, the nursery opens two hours earlier.

Discover more destinations: Coomera, Tummaville, Goomeri, Imbil, Longreach, Purga, Zilzie, Black Mountain

For the main travel overview: Queensland.