Viewpoints in Cairns Region

Scenic Viewpoints

This collection features scenic vantage points across Far North Queensland, ranging from the coastal platforms of Palm Cove to the elevated ridges of the Macalister and Gillies Ranges. It includes historical infrastructure like the Kuranda Scenic Railway and natural formations at Babinda Boulders, where granite outcrops shape the tropical landscape. Key lookouts such as Henry Ross and Wright’s provide perspectives of the Barron Gorge National Park, the Coral Sea, and the surrounding agricultural valleys.

Scenic Viewpoints — Map

Photnart / CC BY-SA 3.0

A

Kuranda Scenic Railway

The Kuranda Scenic Railway is a tourist railway service that operates along the heritage-listed Cairns-to-Kuranda railway line.

B

Boulders Lookout

Overlooks the granite rock formations and rushing waters of Babinda Creek within the Wooroonooran National Park.

C

Boulder Lookout

Elevated vantage point overlooking the granite boulders of Babinda Creek.

D

Creek View

Observation point facing the main watercourse of Babinda Creek.

E

Top Pool

Viewpoint overlooking the upper swimming hole area at the Babinda Boulders.

F

Bottom Pool

Vantage point situated near the lower sections of the Babinda Boulders water system.

G

Devils Pool Lookout

Overlooks a deep natural pool and series of rapids where Babinda Creek flows through a narrow granite gap.

H

Creek 13/10

Offers views of the steep-sided gorge carved by Babinda Creek downstream from the main boulders area.

I

Keaneys Falls Lookout

Viewpoint facing a seasonal waterfall located within the Wooroonooran National Park.

J

Gillies Lookout

Situated on the Gillies Range Road, overlooking the Goldsborough Valley and the Pyramid Mountain.

K

Summit 269 M

Peak elevation point offering views of the Cairns coastline.

L

Henry Ross Lookout

Roadside stop on the Kuranda Range offering panoramic views of Cairns, the Northern Beaches, and the Coral Sea.

M

Heales Lookout

Located on the Gillies Range Road, providing views across the Mulgrave Valley towards the Bellenden Ker Range.

N

Toby's lookout

Vantage point located along the Smithfield Conservation Park trails, overlooking the northern suburbs of Cairns.

O

Wright's Lookout

Offers views of the Barron Gorge, the Cairns coastline, and the hydro-electric power station from within Barron Gorge National Park.

P

Forwards Lookout

Forested vantage point overlooking the Barron Gorge and the Kuranda Scenic Railway tracks.

Q

Glacier Rock Lookout

Reached via the Douglas Track, this granite outcrop provides 360-degree views of the Barron Gorge and Cairns.

R

Palm Cove Jetty Lookout

Coastal platform at the end of the jetty offering views of Double Island, Haycock Island, and the Coral Sea.

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