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Ellinjaa Falls
Millaa Millaa, Far North Queensland

After a one hundred metre walk through a patch of rainforest, hop from rock to rock along the creekside path to this little, waist-deep pool at the base of Ellinjaa Falls.

Swimming at Ellinjaa Falls

Above: Ellinjaa Falls (Order this image)

Being in the wet tropics, the character of this swim can change dramatically. When it has been dry and the river is low, the falls are easy to reach and the water is clear, creating a delightful spot to frolick in the water as the waterfall trickles in at the top end.

However when it rains, as it does much of the time in this part of the world, the creek swells and the water becomes muddy, drowning out the pool and submerging the rocks that allow you to reach it without getting your feet wet. When it comes to swimming here, check the weather forecast, as timing is everything. If you time it right, the experience is rewarding in this pool wrapped in lush forest on three sides.

Swimming at Ellinjaa Falls

Above: The picnic area near the car park (Order this image)

There is also a small lawn area with a couple of picnic tables back at the car park. Note however that it is a one hundred metre walk from the car park to the falls, with one steep section. It is a moderately easy walk, with the path paved most of the way except for the last little stretch along the river bank up to the pool.

There is no space at the falls for a picnic, with just enough space to plonk your clothes on an elevated rock but not much else.

Other Information Before You Go:

Location:Opposite 1174 Theresa Creek Road, Millaa Millaa, 6 km (approx. 10 minute drive) north-east of Millaa Millaa and 60 km (approx. 1 hour drive) west of Innisfail.
Latitude:-17.493493 Longitude:145.655080
Getting there: From the Palmerston Hwy (route 25) 2 km east of Millaa Millaa, take the Theresa Creek Road circuit anti-clockwise for 4 km. The car park for the falls is on the right hand side when travelling in this direction. It is about a 100 metre walk to the falls along a sealed track except for the last 20 metres alongside the creek.

Facilities: Car park, rubbish bins, unsheltered picnic tables.
Entrance fee: None
Water temperature: Mild
Water clarity: Clear when dry, murky after rainfall
Under foot: Rock
Maximum water depth: Less than 1 metre
Minimum swimming proficiency required: Experienced swimmers when the river is flowing fast, due to the currents and poor visibility. Suitable for inexperienced swimmers under supervision under low flow conditions.
Prohibitions including whether you can bring your dog: No dogs, no camping
Sun shade: Shade available in and out of the water
Opening times: Always open
Wheelchair access: None
Managing authority: Tablelands Regional Council
Nearby attractions: Millaa Millaa Falls, also on Theresa Creek Road, 6 km to the west.

Before you head out, make sure to read the swimming safety information and check with the managing authority for any current change of conditions. Specific to this site, the managing authority advises to stay on the track and take care on uneven surfaces, which can be slippery when wet. The managing authority also advises to proceed with caution on the steep climb and descent.

Locality Map:

The marker indicates the approximate location of the car park at the start of the walk to the falls. If the map is not zoomed in locally, as can sometimes occur when loading, simply click or tap on "View Larger Map" below.
View Larger Map

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can kids swim at Ellinjaa Falls? There are a number of hazards that would make it dangerous for kids to swim here, notably the strong currents, slippery rocks, and variable water depth. If kids were to swim here, it would need to be under strict supervision in the shallows when the river is low.

Can my dog swim at Ellinjaa Falls? No, dogs are not permitted here.

Are there crocodiles at Ellinjaa Falls? Crocodiles travel far and wide in far north Queensland. None had been reported here to my knowledge at the time of my swim, but always keep a lookout and heed any warning signs on site.

Are there toilets at Ellinjaa Falls? No, there are no toilets here. There are public toilets in the town of Millaa Millaa and at Millaa Millaa Falls, both of which are 6-7 km away.

Can I have a picnic at Ellinjaa Falls? Yes, there is a picnic area next to the car park, with a couple of unsheltered picnic tables. It is a 100 metre walk from the picnic area to the falls.

If you have any other questions not answered above, leave a comment for me using the comment box below.

Comments:

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