Tap into the healing power of the earth at Innot Hot Springs, a small town west of Ravenshoe. Here are natural thermal springs where the underground water bubbles to the surface at a temperature of 71 - 78C.
Sandy alluvial sediments and fractured rocks of the Hodgkinson Formation combine underground with large faults extending tens of kilometres beneath the springs. Water filters down along the fractures until it comes in close proximity to the magma chamber where it becomes heated and expands.
The pressure created forces the water to the surface along the large fault line which lies beneath the township. The pressurised and heated water discharges to the surface at S17 39.938 E145 14.387.
Legend has it that Innot Hot Springs used to consist of a large pool of overflowing hot water. These hot springs of Nettle Creek have long been established as rejuvenating and healing. The 1891 Australian Medical Gazette claimed that the springs had gained a reputation for its curative properties in some illnesses. These included chronic rheumatism, gout, liver and kidney diseases.
Up until 1900, the mineral water was bottled and shipped overseas as a health treatment and medicine. Mules hauled the water in barrels over the Cardwell Range to Townsville where it was bottled at the Innot Cordial Factory. It was sold as “Innot Spa Water” to Europe until 1914 when WWI broke out.
The spring is still known and recommended by European travellers for its healing qualities. Draw its magic power from the waters of nearby public pools ($$) or simply dig your own hole in the river sand of the creek bed.
Be warned. Some sections of the creek are really HOT, as the name suggests, and could potentially burn your skin. There is an old timer tale that the early settlers used to chuck a chook in the hot water.... and 20 mins later dinner was served. So.... dip your toes until you find a spot that you are comfortable enough to lie in...and relax. We hope you enjoy your visit to this fascinating and ancient hot geological area.
You may log this Earthcache straight away but then please email your answers to the questions to the CO. We will contact you ONLY if your answers need extra work. Logs with no answers sent will be deleted. The answers can be found by observing the landscape and a little local reading in the area.
Q1. How far into the earth is the magma chamber?
Q2. What is the estimated rate of flow at the the hot spring discharge point?
Q3. Does the creek get hotter or cooler as you move towards the bridge?
Q4. How far from the discharge point was it comfortable for you to stand in the creek?