Cairns – Josephine Falls Distance: 74.6 km Driving time: about 1 hour Address: LOT 1 Josephine Falls Walk, Bartle Frere QLD 4861 Josephine Falls is located in Wooroonooran National Park near Cairns. It is a three-tier waterfall with a total drop of about 192 meters. It is a very popular swimming spot among locals in Cairns. The water flows gently over layered rock steps into a crystal-clear, emerald-green pool. The water is so clear you can see the bottom, making it perfect for swimming. One of its highlights is the natural rock slide, where you can sit on the smooth rock surface and slide down with the flowing water into the pool below. You can bring swimwear and enjoy playing in the water, or simply sit on the rocks by the river and spend a relaxed, peaceful time.
Josephine Falls
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Josephine Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Josephine Falls famous?
Josephine Falls is famous for its natural rock waterslide formed by smooth granite boulders, where visitors can slide down into the crystal-clear pools below. It's one of the most popular swimming spots in the Cairns region and is located within the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area.
Can you swim at Josephine Falls?
Yes — swimming is popular in the natural rock pools at the base of the falls. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Josephine Falls?
Dogs are not permitted in Wooroonooran National Park. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Josephine Falls free? Do you need a permit?
Free — no entry fee or permit required to visit Josephine Falls in Wooroonooran National Park. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Josephine Falls?
There is a free car park at Josephine Falls with limited spaces (can fill quickly on weekends and holidays). The walk from the car park to the falls is very short, approximately 200 meters. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Josephine Falls?
About 400 meters / 0.25 miles return (200 meters each way) from the car park on a well-formed path. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Josephine Falls hike difficulty
Easy — short, well-maintained track with some steps and minor elevation. Suitable for most fitness levels. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Josephine Falls?
May to September (dry season) for safer swimming conditions and clearer water, though the falls may have lower flow. Wet season (December–March) brings higher flow but can be unsafe due to strong currents and flooding. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Josephine Falls
From the car park, follow the short paved and stepped path downhill through rainforest to the base of the falls. The track leads directly to the swimming area and rock pools. The path can be slippery when wet, so take care on steps.
Josephine Falls official website
Attractions near Josephine Falls
- •Babinda Boulders — dramatic granite boulders and swimming hole, 20 minutes north
- •Bramston Beach — quiet coastal town with beach access, 15 minutes east
- •Eubenangee Swamp National Park — wetland boardwalk and birdwatching, nearby
- •Innisfail — historic town with Art Deco architecture, 30 minutes north
- •Mamu Tropical Skywalk — elevated rainforest canopy walkway in Wooroonooran NP
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
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