Atherton

Destination overview

With its proximity to Cairns, a lot of people lump Atherton in with its coastal cousin, but we think that is downright delinquent. About 1.5-hours from Cairns, the Atherton Tablelands have a similar tropical charm but are higher in altitude and a few degrees cooler.

Ride Atherton Forest and Davies Creek

Starting right in town, the trails work their way up into the foothills, with everything from mellow, scenic greens, to loose and rocky dark blue and black trails up in the foothills, which pack a punch.

Davies Creek is about halfway as the crow flies between Cairns and Atherton. It’s a veritable labyrinth of singletrack, packed with fast-flowing turns, colossal granite slabs, and creek crossings galore.

Don’t forget your swimmers

Atherton is known for its swimming holes, and it would be remiss not to take a dip at Lake Eacham or Millaa Millaa Falls after a big day on the bike. And after you’ve towelled off, grab a bite to eat at one of the many historic pubs.

Each year the Reef to Reef passes through Atherton in August for a stage, and the Croc Trophy rolls through town in November.

There is a huge spread of things to do on and off the bike, and the weather is primo — especially during the colder months.