Swim in Masons Gorge

MY TRIP TO FAR NORTH QUEENSLAND
Follow Kate as she dives, climbs, eats and sunbakes her way through lush Far North Queensland.

Masson's Gorge is a swimming hole which is frequented by locals during the summer, when the beaches are infested with stingers. With no other options in Cape Tribulation, this is the only place you can cool down. Our hotel pool did not do much to cool us down as the sun was heating the water and it was almost warmer to stay out of the water.

Masson's Gorge is beautifully picturesque, surrounded by rainforest and nature. To get there, drive to the Masons Store and follow the signs to the gorge. It's approximately a 5 minute walk - but depending on how game you are to walk (or slide) down the hill (I would say the it's close to 90 degrees) in your thongs, then this walk can be halved. Our walk through the rainforest was a bit dangerous. There are some vines which have thorns and it seem to have attached them to us which was painful but look out and try to not touch anything you haven't seen before, as it could be dangerous.

This was a relatively busy spot when we went, there were about 10 people in the gorge, which was quite long, but shallow except for one spot. There's not really a place to lie down and relax since it is rocky along the bank, but if you take the time to clear yourself a spot, you can have a comfortable lay down. Once in the water, it was just what we needed. It was so cool and quiet and relaxing. There were small fish in the water and we saw a snake in the tree, which one of the locals informed, was a carpet snake.

Travel Notes

GETTING THERE
Masons Gorge Location
3hours drive north of Cairns airport

ACCOMMODATION
Fern Tree voyagers resort - http://www.ferntreelodge.com.au
Phone Voyages Central Reservations: 1300 134 044 (within Australia).
Outside of Australia, call +61 2 8296 8010.
Standard room from AUD108per night