Crystal Cascades, Waterfall in Far North Queensland, Australia

Crystal Cascades is a series of waterfalls and natural pools strung along Freshwater Creek near Cairns. Water flows through dense tropical growth and forms several swimming spots where the creek spills across rocks at different heights.

The upper section of Freshwater Creek retained its natural form during European settlement and preserves the original landscape of Far North Queensland. These waterfalls were never altered for dams or power generation.

Crystal Cascades takes its name from the clear water of Freshwater Creek, and the pools are a long-standing local swimming spot in Redlynch Valley. Picnic shelters with electric barbeques and a toilet block stand near the main waterhole, where visitors gather on warm days. The cliff section called "No Fear" is the highest perch used for jumps into the deep pool beside it.

Access is via a concrete walking track from the car park at the end of the road in upper Redlynch Valley, west of Cairns. The track is easy and leads to the cascades and waterholes. Facilities at the site include picnic shelters with electric barbeques and a toilet block. Swimming is restricted in some sections near the falls.

The largest waterhole sits next to a vertical cliff where a specific jumping point known as 'No Fear' marks the highest permitted diving location. This jump is a landmark for brave visitors exploring the cool waters.