The Crystal Cascades to Copperlode Dam walk is one of my favourite Cairns hikes as it allows you to explore two popular locations in Cairns in one single walk. 

The walk starts at Crystals Cascades which is a popular swimming spot for locals and visitors. It boasts the swift-flowing Freshwater Creek which travels up a densely rainforest valley. Numerous tributary streams tumble down the valley walls, feeding a chain of rock pools and interconnecting rapids in Freshwater Creek.  

Following a steep walk, you reach Copperlode Dam which was created in 1976 (to create Lake Morris) to provide Cairns’ residents with a reliable water supply. The views from Copperlode Dam and across Lake Morris are quite lovely, especially in the early morning light. 

What to Expect?

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The walk heads through a variety of environments:

• rainforest with vines and ferns,
• granite outcrops,
• eucalypt woodland and
• flowing streams.  

Plus it has views to the coast at a few points.

A wide variety of important wildlife can be seen here including several threatened species.

This is a steep climb for fit walkers. It takes over an hour to get to Copperlode Dam, a little longer if you need to stop to catch your breath. 

Highlights

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• Beautiful views of Copperlode Dam and Lake Morris
• A lovely walk through rainforest, granite outcrops, eucalypt woodland and flowing streams
• A chance to spot wildlife along the way

This hike is best for

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• Fit, experienced walkers
• Hikers looking for a longer walking track in Cairns
• Enjoying spectacular views of Lake Morris and the surrounding landscape
• Learning about the history of Copperlode Dam and the area

Best Time to Visit

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The Crystal Cascades to Copperlode Dam walking track is open year round so you can visit anytime of the year. However, it does get hot in summer, especially during the daytime.

The best time to tackle this track is either in the mornings or during the cooler months from May to September.

Guide to the Crystal Cascades to Copperlode Dam Walk

Distance – 6.6km return
Time – 3 hours return
Elevation – 490m
Grade – Moderate
Track – Out & Back
Location – Dinden National Park
Start/Finish – Crystal Cascades car park

Gradient – Very steep
Quality of path – Formed track, some obstacles
Quality of markings – Sign posted
Steps – No steps
Experienced required – Bushwalking experience recommended

Crystal Cascades to Copperlode Dam Walk Map

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Parking Available

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Parking is available at the entrance to Crystal Cascades. Take a left turn off Redlynch Intake Road and park in the Crystal Cascades parking lot.

Directions for Crystal Cascades to Copperlode Dam Walk

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The rough unmanaged track that climbs from Crystal Cascades to Copperlode Dam starts just before the second picnic shelter, 150m in from the entrance gate. The entrance to the track is on the left. Look for the sign that says ‘Lake Morris – Copperlode Dam Track’. 

The track, which weaves up a steep spur through dense rainforest and wait-a-while, is marked with flagging tape. For the first few hundred metres it is rough, ill-defined, and laced with slippery-matted roots, but the forest gradually opens up as you climb. 

After about 30 minutes of steep climbing, you arrive at a clearing with a view of the coast near Yorkeys Knob. It’s the only view you’ll get until you reach Lake Morris and Copperlode Dam. 

From here on, the trail passes through open eucalypt forest, but after a short downhill section it enters complex notophyll vine forest. This section is not as steep as the spur track.

There is a locked yellow metal gate across the end of the trail before you reach Lake Morris Road. 

Along the bitumen-sealed road

Turn right and continue along Lake Morris Road, passing a telecommunications tower on the right. This is a gravel road so stick to the left side of the road and watch for cars and bicycles. 

If you stick to the left side of the road, it will take you to Lake Morris and Copperlode Dam. Walk over the bridge and head down the stairs to get to the Copperlode Dam spillway, the furthest you can go. 

From here you can head up to the Visitor’s Information Centre, which has a sheltered observation deck where you can enjoy the view. There’s also a playground, barbecues and tables to sit down and enjoy a break. 

The return trip

Take the same road back down to Crystal Cascades. 

When you get back, you can take a dip in one of the rock pools to cool down from the heat of the day. The cool water is refreshing and a welcome respite after the steep walk.

In Conclusion

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If you would like to explore Cairns and its attractions then add the Crystal Cascades to Copperlode Dam walk to your itinerary. You will not be disappointed. Your efforts taking on this challenging hike will be rewarded with amazing views of the Copperlode Dam and Lake Morris area. Plus, you can cool down with a refreshing swim at the end of the walk. Bonus! 

If you’re looking for more hiking trails around Cairns, check out my post 20 Best Cairns Hikes with Spectacular Views.

I love to hear from my readers. Have you completed the Crystal Cascades to Copperlode Dam walk? Please let me know if you liked this hike or not. Leave your comments below.