Little Crystal Creek by Townsville is very popular amongst locals to escape the summer heat.
The Little Crystal Creek Falls are beneath the heritage-listed stone arch bridge which was built in the early 1900s during the depression. It makes for beautiful viewing as you relax in the crystal clear freshwater.
How to get to Little Crystal Creek
Address: LOT 93 Mount Spec Rd, Crystal Creek QLD 4816, Australia
Little Crystal Creek is a 1 hour’s drive away from Townsville.
Drive on Bruce Highway for the majority of the journey until eventually turning off onto Barrett Road. The turning will be onto Mount Spec Road which is a winding road leading up to the creek on the side of the mountains.
Take care driving on this road as there are some blind spots. There’s always one person driving like an idiot, don’t let that be you.
However, you’re rewarded with a view that is quite nice featuring the lush greenery of the forest, as you gradually ascend up the mountain.
There is no fee to enter little crystal creek and there is plenty of free parking so don’t worry about that either.
The best time to visit
North Queensland is generally hot throughout the whole year with dry and wet months.
The best time to visit would be between May – September as the temperate is warm but dry, often with a slight breeze. Avoiding the months of October – April would be wise. It can have heavy downpour and be unbearably hot and humid.
We visited during late December and couldn’t get our clothes off soon enough to jump into the cold water. It didn’t ruin our trip but it would have been more enjoyable in cooler weather.
Where to stay near Little Crystal Creek
Since Little Crystal Creek is by Townsville it would be best to stay in Townsville.
We would recommend staying at Orchid Guest House which is run by an elderly local woman. She offers free washing and drying facilities and loads of maps and guides for the town.
It is cheap and cheerful offering rooms to share and private double rooms so don’t be expecting anything extravagant, it’s a place to rest your head at night and have a pleasant night’s sleep.
On the other hand, if you prefer something a bit more upmarket then have a gander at Hotel Grand Chancellor Townsville.
It has its own restaurant, a rooftop pool and is within Townsville business and shopping district.
Little Crystal Creek by Townsville is a great day out
Little Crystal Creek Falls is a good fun day out for everyone.
When you arrive at the parking area it is only a few minutes’ walk to the creek.
As you arrive at the creek you will immediately set your eyes upon the towering stone arch bridge. The bridge was built in the 1930s during the depression. It provides access to Paluma Range National Park via Mount Spec Road. It is so important it is heritage-listed. It’s very popular for locals and tourists to take a few snaps as it is so picturesque.
Viewing the bridge from the bottom makes for better viewing, as you’re swimming in the water.
It’s also fun at the falls as it’s safe to cliff jump into the water.
It doesn’t look too big of a jump as you see people jumping off but when you get up there for yourself it’s a different story.
There are many people here whether it’s solo people, couples or families. They each claim their own portion of the falls to relax and enjoy their time there.
Little Crystal Creek has 2 major portions on either side of the bridge. Make sure you check out both sides as they provide different opportunities to fling yourself off into the water.
You will only need 1-2 hours to enjoy yourself there but if you intend to stay longer pack yourself some snacks. There are barbecue facilities for you to enjoy if you want to sizzle something up.
If you feel like going on more adventures then there are many walking tracks to hike, as well as the Big Crystal Creek to visit an 18 min drive away.
If you are heading north as part of a road trip don’t miss Mission Beach if you are on your way to Cairns. Mission Beach is a laid back town offering beautiful tropical vibes and a popular destination to skydive on the beach.
TOP TIPS
- Pack some snacks and a towel to enjoy at the creek, BBQ facilities are also available
- The earlier the better – Don’t leave it too late in the day to visit as it’s a popular destination for locals and tourists so it may get busy
FAQ
Dogs are not allowed as Little Crystal Creek is within a National Park.
Little Crystal Creek is 74 km away from Townsville and will take approximately 1 hour to drive.
The creek is safe to swim in for everyone including children, as long as common-sense safety measures are adhered to.
