Lake Eacham

About this place

Lake Eacham, originally Yidyam or Wiinggina, is a lake of volcanic origin on the Atherton Tableland of Queensland, about 16 km in a straight line east of the town of Atherton. It lies within the World Heritage-listed Wet Tropics of Queensland, in Crater Lakes National Park. The lake formed more than 9,130 years ago when magma rose from deep in the earth and heated the groundwater; the steam was trapped underground until huge explosions released it, splitting the ground and burning the trees, after which groundwater filled the crater and the forest grew back. No streams flow in or out, so its level can change by up to 4 m between seasons. The local Ngadjon-jii people tell a story of its origin that parallels what scientists describe. The clear blue water is ringed on every side by dense rainforest mirrored on its calm surface, and a walking track of about 3 km circles the lake among giant trees and vines. Many birds and reptiles live in the forest, including the orange-footed scrubfowl, and people swim from a small jetty on the shore. Visiting is free, swimming is allowed in the clear water, and there is a car park and picnic area. Bring insect repellent; the dry season from May to October is best for walking.