Little Crystal Creek Falls - Trip Report
Enjoying an easy ridgeline descent, a scenic waterfall swim, deep water soloing, and a steep but straightforward climb back out.
Date: Saturday 21 May 2022
Leader: Luen
Participants: 7
A small group headed out for an enjoyable half-day walk to Lower Little Crystal Creek Falls in Paluma Range National Park. The route was straightforward, with an easy descent down the ridgeline into the valley, although it was still steep enough to keep everyone awake early in the morning.
We arrived next to the mini-canyon perched atop the monolithic granite rock. We peered into the slot, over to the falls, and pool at the base. We then bushwalked around cliff to the base of the falls.
Once near the creek, we made our way down the final scramble into the creekbed, where someone had installed a rope to help with the steep section. From there, it was a short and scenic scramble to the falls, where we had a chance to relax, enjoy morning tea and the beautiful setting, and take in the large pool below the waterfall. We all had a bit of a swim.
Tareq & Luen added a bit of extra action to the morning with some deep water soloing at the falls, which gave the rest of us some entertainment while we rested. After spending some time by the water, we headed back out via the steep ridgeline climb. While still a solid workout on the return, the route is becoming somewhat of a formed track now, which makes the navigation straightforward.
Overall, it was an easy, enjoyable, and rewarding walk to one of the Paluma Range's beautiful hidden spots - a great half-day adventure with a mix of steep terrain, a refreshing waterfall, and a bit of fun on the rocks. We were back home by lunchtime and we had the rest of the weekend to do as we pleased.
- Luen
