Explore Clamshell Falls, a high, multi-layered waterfall found at the end of the Behana Gorge Track in Wooroonooran National Park, close to Innisfail and Cairns.
Are you looking for a simple rainforest walk that offers lots of chances to swim in fresh water and ends with a waterfall near Cairns?
Then continue reading…
With so many waterfalls in Cairns, Behana Gorge is a perfect choice for beginners. It’s a great spot to explore, swim, and relax while enjoying the peaceful rainforests of Tropical Far North Queensland.
Where Is Clamshell Falls?
Clamshell Falls is in the Behana Gorge, which is part of Wooroonooran National Park. It’s about an half hour drive south of Cairns.
Wooroonooran National Park is quite big, but the gorge is near the northern end, close to Gordonvale and just off the freeway. This makes it easy to reach from Cairns.
How To Reach The Behana Gorge Waterfall Walking Track
To reach the Behana Gorge walking track to Clamshell Falls, you’ll need your own car or transport. The easiest way is to use Google Maps for directions before you leave. Since phone reception can be poor near the gorge, make sure to have your directions saved.
Drive south from Cairns on the Bruce Highway for just over 35 kilometers. After passing the noticeable Walsh’s Pyramid near Gordonvale, look for a sign to turn right onto Behana Gorge Road.
Continue on Behana Gorge Road for about 5 kilometers, all the way to the end. You’ll know you’ve arrived at the Behana Gorge walking track when you see a large clearing with a car park, water service fences, and a big pipe.
How To Hike Behana Gorge Waterfall Track
Hike Distance: 6.6 km
Time Needed: 1.5 to 2 hours
Elevation Change: 220 meters (varied)
Difficulty Level: Easy
When you get to the car park, you’ll find the Behana Gorge trailhead to Clamshell Falls behind a steel gate next to some fenced-off council property. The path is around 3 km long and follows a water pipe on a smooth, paved track.
Although it’s more of a road than a bushwalking trail, the lush rainforest and beautiful views of the rushing gorge below make for a pleasant hike.
Navigating to Clamshell Falls is straightforward. Just follow the paved path along the pipe as it gently climbs up the Behana Gorge. The trail ends at Clamshell Falls.
Along the way, you can take a refreshing dip in the calm forest waterholes by the creek. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, like the rare southern cassowary, which can be found in the nearby Wooroonooran National Park.
What You’ll Find at Clamshell Falls
When you get to the end of the Behana Gorge walking track, you’ll see a small sign and a big fence blocking the path. This marks the start of the Cairns Behana Gorge water catchment area.
To reach Clamshell Falls, walk back a few hundred meters on the path. You’ll find a well-trodden trail that takes you down to the rocks by the creek.
Clamshell Falls is a group of waterfalls that flow down the steep upper part of the gorge. The water comes from a creek that starts on the western side of Mount Bellenden Ker, which is Queensland’s second-highest mountain after Mount Bartle Frere.
Can You Swim At Clamshell Falls
The best place to swim at Behana Gorge is the big, deep natural pool right below the main waterfall at Clamshell Falls.
It’s deep enough for a refreshing swim on a hot summer day, especially after hiking up.
