Never mind sticking to the rivers and lakes you’re used to; chasing waterfalls is always a stellar adventure. Water might be a scarce resource in many parts of Australia, but the island continent still manages to hide a cache of waterfalls that will pique your imagination, soothe your soul and jazz up your Instagram feed. Australia’s waterfalls all have their own special magic, and each one of them is worth the trip.
Seeing all of them would take a lifetime, however, so to make things easier we’ve picked out a few of the best that you should add to your bucket list. Go with the flow (of water, in this case), hire a car and chase these spectacular cascades.
1. Natural Bridge, Springbrook National Park
This waterfall is definitely regal enough to warrant its Queensland location. A picturesque spot, the Natural Bridge is a rock formation found in the Springbrook National Park, less than an hour’s drive from Surfer’s Paradise. A peaceful path meanders through subtropical forest, leading you to a cave carved out of basalt by water. A heavenly waterfall cascades down into the centre of the cave, where glow-worms and bats reside.
Feb 8, 2017 at 4:12pm PST
2. Crystal Shower Falls, Dorrigo National Park
Only an hour from Coffs Harbour, Dorrigo National Park is the answer for anyone who has been hearing the call of nature. There’s plenty to see in the park, but the highlight is the Crystal Shower Falls. Set amongst glorious rainforests, the Crystal Shower Falls are reached by a short walk. The tumble of water is spectacular in itself, but what makes this waterfall stand out is the track that takes you into a cavern behind the falls. From this rocky vantage point, you can look out through the waterfall to admire the surrounding scenery.
3. Mackenzie Falls, Grampian National Park
One of the standout natural attractions in Victoria, Mackenzie Falls are just under 300 kilometres from Melbourne. You’ll have to work to get to this waterfall, slogging up a steep trail, but it’s worth every minute (and all the complaints)! Mackenzie Falls plunge straight over mighty cliffs, driving rainbows up from the pool below. Despite the sheer force of the water pounding down, this is a peaceful setting where you can happily sit awhile and enjoy the natural surrounds.
Feb 1, 2017 at 5:32pm PST
4. Ebor Falls, Guy Fawkes River National Park
Situated in Guy Fawkes River National Park, Ebor Falls might not feature fireworks but it certainly puts on a good show. Ebor Falls make up part of the Waterfall Way between Coffs Harbour and Armidale. Amongst all of the waterfalls on this route, Ebor stands out for its height (more than 100 metres) and dramatic two-tiered structure. A walking track links the upper and lower falls, getting you close to the action via viewing platforms. Being near the main road, Ebor Falls make a great stop in any road trip, so you can relax and enjoy convenient picnic areas with scenic views.
Feb 7, 2017 at 2:04pm PST
5. Wallaman Falls, Girringun National Park
Australia’s highest single-drop waterfall, Wallaman Falls is 268 metres high. The sheer height of the waterfall alone makes it worth visiting, but adding to its wonder is its location. Wallaman Falls is set in the UNESCO World Heritage Wet Tropics Area, where some of the world’s oldest rainforest can be found. The biodiversity in the area is mind-boggling, with a unique array of flora and fauna. As well as rainbows, you might even get to see cassowaries or platypus!
There is something about waterfalls that is both awe-inspiring and calming. If you need to escape city life for a while and reconnect with nature, book a car and make the trip to one of these stunning cascades.