Here are our top choices for beautiful waterfall walks on the east coast. Park up and stretch those legs, take a refreshing dip, bring a picnic and soak up the tranquil surrounds.
Milla Milla Falls. Credit: TEQ
Russell Falls
Where: Mt Field National Park, Tasmania
Tasmania is home to over two hundred known waterfalls, but Russell Falls is perhaps the most iconic and frequently photographed. Located just over an hour from our Hobart branch, the waterfall’s white cascades flow down tiered rocks surrounded by lush forest. By night, the area becomes magical as glow worms illuminate the moss-covered rocks. A short ten-minute stroll leads you to the enchanting Horseshoe Falls, for those who want to see more.
Millaa Millaa Falls
Where: Atherton Tablelands, Queensland
Just over 1 1/2hrs from our Cairns Airport branch, Millaa Millaa Falls offers a stunning rainforest backdrop and a pristine waterhole at its base. After a refreshing dip, take a short drive to visit the nearby Zillie and Ellinjaa Falls. Keep an eye out for platypuses as you explore the tranquil pools!
Mackenzie Falls
Where: Grampians National Park, Victoria
One of Victoria’s largest waterfalls, Mackenzie Falls, located just over three hours from Melbourne, flows year-round and tumbles into a deep pool below. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from the lookout or take the trail down to the base for an up-close view of the dramatic cascade. For an immersive experience, you can book a tour with Ambush Tours to explore the falls and other key attractions in the Grampians.
Grampions National Park, Victoria. Credit: Visit Victoria
Wattamolla Falls
Where: Royal National Park, New South Wales
Located within the Royal National Park, Wattamolla Falls is a short 50-minute drive from our Sydney Airport branch. Its name, derived from the Aboriginal word for “place near running water,” perfectly describes the beautiful cascade flowing into a lagoon below. Visitors can swim in the calm waters of Wattamolla Lagoon, which are separated from the ocean waves by a sandy barrier, making it a safe spot for all ages.
Josephine Falls
Where: Near Cairns, Queensland Located 1 ¼ hrs from our Cairns branch and among the many scenic waterfalls in Tropical North Queensland, Josephine Falls is a standout. its unique granite boulder formations and striking turquoise waters make it a photographer’s dream. Known for its natural water slide, swimmers can glide over the smooth rocks between the pools. Be mindful of designated swimming areas and follow the safety guidelines to ensure a fun and safe visit
Josephine Falls, Cairns, Queensland. Credit: TEQ
Florence Falls
Where: Litchfield National Park, Northern Territory
One of the most serene spots in Litchfield National Park, Florence Falls is just 90 minutes from Darwin. The waterfall cascades into a beautiful plunge pool that is open for swimming most of the year. The surrounding trails provide excellent views from different angles, and a short hike will take you to Florence Creek for an alternative swimming experience.
Jim Jim Falls
Where: Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory
Nestled in Kakadu National Park, Jim Jim Falls is one of the most iconic waterfalls in the region, along with the nearby Twin Falls. During the wet season, you can marvel at the falls from the air with Kakadu Air tours. For a deeper exploration, book a multi-day tour with Kakadu Tours and Travel to experience all of Kakadu’s highlights, including Aboriginal rock art at Ubirr Rock.
Purling Brook Falls
Where: Springbrook National Park, Queensland
A little over an hour from our Gold Coast Airport branch, Purling Brook Falls in Springbrook National Park offers breathtaking views as the water plunges one hundred metres into the valley below. The lookout is easily accessible, or you can take a longer loop hike to reach the base of the falls for a full experience.
Ellenborough Falls
Where: Mid North Coast, New South Wales
One of the longest single-drop waterfalls in the Southern Hemisphere, Ellenborough Falls drops two hundred metres into the valley below. Located about an hour from Taree, visitors can view the falls from a lookout or take a steep trail down to the base to witness its full magnitude.
Crystal Shower Falls
Where: Dorrigo National Park, New South Wales
Located in Dorrigo National Park, a couple of hours from Coffs Harbour, Crystal Shower Falls is must-see. The highlight here is a trail that allows you to walk behind the waterfall for a unique view of the cascading water. It is a refreshing experience in the middle of a lush rainforest setting.
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Happy travels!