Townsville Views and Waterfall Wonders
After weeks of smaller towns and quiet camps, Townsville was quite a shock to the system. Suddenly, we were in a proper city again. To get our bearings, we climbed Castle Hill, the giant pink granite monolith that sits right in the middle of town. The view from the top stretched over the city, Magnetic Island shimmering offshore, and the endless sweep of coastline. Beautiful, yes, but the bustle down below reminded us how much we loved the slower rhythm of our life.
Leaving the city behind, we found exactly what we were craving at Crystal Creek. Big Crystal Creek is one of those postcard-perfect swimming spots, tucked into the Paluma Range National Park. The water was calm and clear, shaded by gum trees, and perfect for a lazy dip. The sound of running water, birds calling in the background, and that fresh mountain air, it was everything Townsville wasn’t.
From there, we pushed deeper inland to Wallaman Falls, and it blew us away. Australia’s highest single-drop waterfall plunges nearly 270 metres into the gorge below, sending up clouds of mist that create rainbows in the sunlight. Standing at the lookout, we felt tiny against the vast landscape. The power and beauty of the falls were impossible to put into words, so we took plenty of photos!
Townsville might have felt a bit full-on, but the days that followed gave us a bit of balance. From city heights to creek swims and epic waterfalls, it was a leg of the trip that showed us both sides of North Queensland.
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Townsville & Surrounds
Townsville is a vibrant tropical city on Queensland’s northeast coast, blending urban energy with natural escapades at its fringes. Castle Hill is its iconic inland sentinel, defining the skyline. But the real magic lies in the surrounding country: rainforest, creeks, and waterfalls hidden just beyond the city’s edge.
Big Crystal Creek is one such gem, a shaded rainforest creek in the Paluma Range National Park, perfect for cooling off and reconnecting with nature.
Then there’s Wallaman Falls, part of Girringun National Park, the tallest single-drop waterfall in Australia. Its sheer vertical drop and misty power are unforgettable.
How to Get There
Townsville sits on Queensland’s north-east coast, about 1,350 kilometres north of Brisbane. The Bruce Highway runs right through town if you’re driving, with plenty of coastal stops along the way. For those flying, Townsville Airport has regular services from Brisbane, Cairns, and other major cities. Rail travellers can also roll in on the Spirit of Queensland train, which links Brisbane to Cairns with Townsville as a key stop.
Castle Hill: right in Townsville — walk or drive up, easy access from town.
Big Crystal Creek: a drive from Townsville toward the Paluma Range; roads are sealed though winding.
Wallaman Falls: accessed via inland roads through rainforest and bushland; some unsealed sections — check local conditions.
What to See & Do
Castle Hill lookout: panoramic views across city, coast, and islands
Walking tracks around Townsville: city walks, coastal paths, lookout points
Crystal Creek swimming & rainforest trails: shaded pools, quiet forest walks
Wallaman lookouts & trails: views over the gorge, forest walks, photography
Rainforest and bush scenery: lush flora, mist, birdlife
When to Visit
The dry season (May–September) is best for waterfall visits and forest walks. Roads are more reliable, creeks safer, and conditions more manageable. Rainy season may bring high flows, slippery trails, and some closures.
Final Thoughts
We loved how this stretch forced us to shift between two worlds. Townsville gave us skyline vistas and coastal energy; Crystal Creek offered hush and shade; Wallaman Falls stunned with raw force. Together, they opened our eyes to the layers of North Queensland you experience when you slow down.
Fast Facts
Location: Townsville, North Queensland
Distance from Cairns: 350 km south via Bruce Highway (A1)
Traditional Owners: Wulgurukaba and Bindal peoples
Access: Fully sealed highway, major regional hub suitable for all vehicles and motorhomes
Facilities: Caravan parks, hotels, cafes, museums, art galleries, Strand precinct, supermarkets, fuel
Walking Track: The Strand foreshore walk, Castle Hill track, and Magnetic Island trails via ferry
Dog Friendly: Allowed in designated areas along The Strand and some caravan parks; not permitted on Magnetic Island National Park trails
Best Time to Visit: May to October for warm, dry days and lower humidity
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