Bus
Driving
Clifton Beach to Atherton
Updated: 27 May 2026
The journey from Clifton Beach to Atherton takes you deep into the Atherton Tablelands, covering approximately 95 kilometers. You will drive via the Captain Cook Highway, through Kuranda, and continue along the Kennedy Highway. The trip typically takes 1 hour and 45 minutes, passing through lush rainforests and rolling agricultural hills. Atherton is the central hub of the Tablelands, offering a cooler climate and access to numerous natural wonders. This route is a classic Queensland highland drive.
Total Distance: 95 km driving distance and 60 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving is the fastest method, taking approximately 1 hour 45 minutes.
Cheapest Way
Driving your own vehicle is the most economical way to travel to Atherton.
Compare Clifton Beach to Atherton Routes
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Direct
|
Direct
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|
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 2 hours 30 minutes | 1 hour 45 minutes |
| Avg Price | 40-60 AUD | 30-40 AUD fuel |
| Operator | Trans North Bus | Private Vehicle |
| Route | Cairns to Atherton via Mareeba. | Captain Cook Highway to Kennedy Highway via Kuranda and Mareeba. |
| Tip | Book your seat in advance as services are limited. | The road is well-paved but winding through the range. |
Travel Tips
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ClothingBring a warm sweater as Atherton is much cooler than the coast.
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FuelFill up in Mareeba if you are low on fuel.
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Road SafetyBe aware of fog in the early morning on the Tablelands.
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Local MarketsVisit the Atherton markets for fresh local produce and crafts.
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ConnectivityMobile phone coverage is generally good in the town center.
Safety Tips
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DrivingTake regular breaks to avoid fatigue on the winding roads.
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WildlifeWatch for wallabies and cattle on rural roads.
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WeatherCheck for road closures during the wet season.
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EmergencyKeep a physical map in your car as GPS can be unreliable.
People Also Ask
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Is Atherton cold?It is significantly cooler than the coast, especially in winter.
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How long is the drive?The drive takes about 1 hour 45 minutes.
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Are there buses?Yes, Trans North provides bus services to Atherton.
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What is there to see?Crystal Caves and Hallorans Hill are top attractions.
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Is the road safe?Yes, the Kennedy Highway is a major, well-maintained road.
Quick Info
- From Clifton Beach, Queensland, Australia
- To Atherton, Queensland, Australia
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
May to September for cool, crisp highland air.
Things to Do in Atherton
1
Hallorans Hill Lookout
Enjoy panoramic views of the Atherton Tablelands. It is a perfect spot for sunset photography.
2
Crystal Caves
Explore a man-made cave filled with thousands of crystals and fossils. It is a unique geological attraction.
3
Atherton Forest Mountain Bike Park
Ride through extensive mountain bike trails suitable for all skill levels. The park is well-maintained.
4
Mount Hypipamee National Park
Walk to the crater and view the spectacular waterfall. The rainforest here is ancient and beautiful.
Tags
Clifton Beach to Atherton
Atherton Tablelands drive
Kennedy Highway route
Cairns to Atherton travel
Atherton transport
driving to Atherton
Queensland highlands
Tablelands road trip
Atherton attractions
