News Chasing Waterfalls
Gippsland’s top 8 waterfalls that cascade, plunge, trickle and thunder.
The best time to see waterfalls is after high rainfall. Spring is often a good bet with wetter months, coupled with snow melting from the alpine regions. Here are Gippsland's top 8 waterfalls.
1. Toorongo & Amphitheatre Falls
CLAIM TO FAME: Two-for-one waterfalls
WHERE: Noojee, West Gippsland. Less than 2 hours’ drive east of Melbourne.
WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT: The stunning 2.2km walk through rainforest alongside a playful creek is worth a visit in its own right, but the loop also takes in 2 distinct waterfalls: Toorongo and Amphitheatre Falls. Toorongo cascades impressively over tiered rocks below and its smaller neighbour, Amphitheatre Falls, has a swimming hole at the top.
2. Agnes Falls
CLAIM TO FAME: Hidden in the forest above Wilsons Promontory coastline.
WHERE: Near Toora, South Gippsland, 2:40 hours’ drive southeast of Melbourne.
WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT: These falls are nothing but impressive at 59m high. It’s a short and easy 200m walk to the viewing platform from the car park, and the reserve is picnic-perfect.
3. Narracan Falls
CLAIM TO FAME: Short but thunderous
WHERE: Near Trafalgar, West Gippsland, 1:45 hours’ drive east of Melbourne.
WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT: This block waterfall, wider that it is long, fringes the beautiful Narracan Falls Streamside Reserve with a large grassy picnic area. You can swim in the pool below.
4. Morwell River Falls
CLAIM TO FAME: Off-the-beaten track
WHERE: Near Boolarra, Central Gippsland, 2:30 hours’ drive southeast of Melbourne.
WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT: A walking trail takes you past a series of stunning cascades in the upper reaches of the Morwell River, surrounded by an oasis of native bush. Discover a hidden gem.
5. Cyathea Falls
CLAIM TO FAME: Amongst one of Victoria’s last patches of cool temperate rainforest
WHERE: Tarra Bulga National Park, Central Gippsland, 2:20 hours’ drive southeast of Melbourne.
WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT: Located on the 1.4km Tarra Valley Rainforest Walk, the falls are not large but the scenic fern-laced surrounds compensate. There is a viewing platform to take in the falls and picnic areas.
6. Raymond Creek Falls
CLAIM TO FAME: A fearless 20m plunge
WHERE: Snowy River National Park, 5:30 hours’ drive east of Melbourne.
WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT: Wander through magnificent forests and remote wilderness on this short but sweet 1km hike, beginning from a scenic picnic area. The cascading water fearlessly dives 20 metres into the jagged rocks below and then flows into a deep, calm pool.
7. Basin Creek Falls
CLAIM TO FAME: Stunning views of the mighty Snowy River below
WHERE: Snowy River National Park, 4:35 hours’ drive east of Melbourne.
WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT: For epic views over the impressive Snowy River as it snakes its way through this stunning national park. Though the descent is steep, the trek through the lush, forested terrain is captivating. Near the base of the falls, there's a level, grassy area with picnic tables. The shallow pool at the base is perfect for a quick dip.
7. Little River Falls
CLAIM TO FAME: A plunge into Victoria’s deepest gorge
WHERE: Snowy River National Park, 5:30 hours’ drive east of Melbourne. (There are seasonal road closures in this area, but the falls can usually be accessed via Buchan - check prior to travelling.)
WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT: Start your visit at the Little River Falls Roadside for a scenic picnic area with BBQs and toilets. Take the short 400m walk down to see the falls on their downward journey into Victoria’s deepest gorge.
Published on under: Nature & Outdoor