Ellinjaa Falls on the Waterfall Circuit Near Cairns! Complete Guide
If you’re planning a trip to Cairns and want to chase waterfalls in the lush Atherton Tablelands, Ellinjaa Falls is one you won’t want to miss. This beautiful cascade is part of the famous Waterfall Circuit, alongside Millaa Millaa and Zillie Falls, and offers a mix of scenic beauty and a refreshing swim at the base.
Many first-time visitors to the Tablelands wonder: how easy is it to find, how long is the walk, and can you actually swim here? Having explored the circuit myself, I can say Ellinjaa Falls is one of my favourite photogenic spots, framed by the rainforest.
It’s also one of the easier waterfalls to access, making it a great choice for anyone wanting a North Queensland nature experience. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about visiting Ellinjaa Falls, and tips to combine it with the rest of the Waterfall Circuit for the ultimate day trip from Cairns.
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How to get to Ellinjaa Falls on the Waterfall Circuit
Ellinjaa Falls is located at the northern end of the Atherton Tablelands in North Queensland.
The area is well worth a visit if you’re ever in the region to witness the beauty of the falls from Theresa Creek Road (please see directional map HERE) just around the corner from Millaa Millaa Falls.
However, I thought it was fantastic with the way the water was rushing down, wide over the rocks. It felt it made the falls really great for Photography and would be extra special in a low-light situation!
The easiest and most rewarding way to get there is by hiring a car or using your own vehicle. The Palmerston Highway is sealed and easily reachable from Innisfail, Cairns, or a short via off the main coastal road, the Bruce Highway.
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You can turn into Theresa Creek Road or follow the signs to the Waterfall Circuit, since it’s straight off the Palmerston Highway.
However, while you can find tours to the nearby Millaa Millaa Falls, the parking facilities are just not big enough here for tour buses to fit.
How long is the walk & Difficulty?
Ellinjaa Falls is less than 1 kilometre return to get down to the Falls and a rough duration of 30 minutes. Every twist and turn will bring something unique as you make your way, so don’t forget to take plenty of photos for memories that will last forever!
I didn’t find the Walking track that difficult, but there were some stairs and essentially downhill the whole way there. The track is nevertheless an easy walk on account of its unspoiled natural beauty and flat terrain.
Obviously, the return journey is uphill, which could be more taxing, but the splendid views will help lighten the mood and remind you why you came in the first place.
Just so you know, Matt and I completed the walk in thongs or flip-flops, but I’m not sure I would suggest this all the time. I found it slippery in the mud in some areas, and it wasn’t that easy walking over the rocks.
Getting closer to the falls requires walking through the rocky waterhole (which isn’t that deep) or slowly walking over the rocks around the edge.
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How big are the falls & Can you swim?
When you enter the Falls area, this will be about 20 metres away from the Falls itself, which is also an excellent spot for photos. The falls are about 10 metres high and might be shorter than others, but that didn’t take away from its beauty.
What impressed me about these falls was the width and how the water flow cascaded down the rocks. The sounds are so hypnotic and meditating, and the whole time you’re down there display a sense of relaxation.
Yes, it is possible to take a plunge in the waters, but don’t expect it to be deep. In fact, the water is incredibly shallow, with most areas being just above ankle depth.
I’m guessing this depends on how much rain has fallen in the last week too. Also remember that most of these waterfalls are shaded by forest trees. So, although you’re in North Queensland, any freshwater swimming holes will be on the cooler side, and I doubt you’ll be able to swim long.
Waterproof shoes could come in handy here, especially if you’re swimming. There are both smooth and sharp rocks around, making walking easier where you can’t see. Not only that, but it can be a bit slippery.
Note: If you visit in a quiet time, then you might be lucky enough to catch a platypus.
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Best time to Visit?
This area is best to visit during the summer season from December to March. This is when most rains fall, creating a more prominent-looking waterfall.
This is also the warmest time of year and makes for a more refreshing swim (since the waters will be on the crisp side).
FAQ’s – Common Questions?
Is it free to visit?
Yes, all the falls on the Waterfalls circuit (including Ellinjaa Falls) are Free to visit. In fact, there are plenty of waterfalls or waterholes near Cairns that are free and you can see more on that below!
Are there any bathrooms?
Sorry, but there are no Bathrooms at these Falls or in the car park before you walk down. The closest ones available would be at the bottom car park of Millaa Millaa Falls, which is a few kilometres down the road.
If you’re driving from Cairns and see all three waterfalls on the circuit, then I recommend stopping at Millaa Millaa Falls first for your bathroom break. After that, continue to Ellinjaa Falls and Zillie Falls.
➡ Compare prices for Tours to Millaa Millaa Falls & The Atherton Tablelands from Cairns, HERE with GYG, or HERE with Viator.
Other Things to do Nearby?
If you’re planning a 7-day Cairns itinerary, you’ll want to include natural highlights like Ellinjaa Falls and the Waterfall Circuit, but there’s so much more to see around the region. Here are some of the top places and experiences to add to your trip:
- Josephine Falls – A stunning tiered waterfall with a natural rock slide that’s perfect for cooling off in the tropical heat.
- Kuranda Village – Nestled in the rainforest, this charming village offers markets, wildlife encounters, and the famous Skyrail Rainforest Cableway.
- Cairns Botanic Gardens – Known for its tropical plants, walking trails, and peaceful atmosphere just minutes from the CBD.
- Cairns Aquarium – Home to over 16,000 marine and freshwater animals, making it a great all-weather activity.
- Palm Cove – A relaxed seaside village perfect for dining by the beach or enjoying sunrise strolls under the palm trees.
- Green Island – A coral cay on the Great Barrier Reef where you can snorkel, dive, or relax on beaches.
- Fitzroy Island – Another Great Barrier Reef island offering rainforest hikes, snorkelling at Nudey Beach, and turtle spotting.
- Daintree Rainforest & Cape Tribulation – Explore one of the world’s oldest rainforests where the reef meets the rainforest.
- Atherton Tablelands – Beyond the waterfalls, this region is known for its crater lakes, local produce, and amazing landscapes.
Wrap up & Read More!
A visit to Ellinjaa Falls is a must-do on the Waterfall Circuit near Cairns in Far North Queensland. With gorgeous scenery and interesting flora and fauna throughout the area, it’s no wonder many people return year after year.
I hope you found the information you were looking for, but, If you’re still researching, please check out my other Cairns Blogs for inspiration.
