The Best Waterfalls in Victoria to Explore This Winter
Spend a rainy day or four exploring some of the best waterfalls in Victoria.
When TLC said don't go chasing waterfalls they clearly hadn't seen the ones in Victoria. From the iconic Steavensons and MacKenzie Falls, to the lesser-known La La and Wannon Falls, we've rounded up the best waterfalls in Victoria that you need to chase this winter. Because when it rains, the waterfalls pour!
What are you waiting for? Strap on your hiking boots, pack some water and get ready to explore!
Best Waterfalls in Victoria: Great Ocean Road & The Otways
Beauchamp Falls
Meander through a magnificent Mountain Ash, Myrtle Beech, Blackwood and thick fern forest to arrive at the spectacle that is Beauchamp Falls. One of the best waterfalls in Victoria, its dramatic beauty is felt as soon as you see it crash over a ledge into the large pool below. One of several waterfalls in the Great Otway National Park, this 20-metre waterfall is the ultimate reward after a somewhat strenuous walk.
Aire Valley Road, Beech Forrest
Hopetoun Falls
If you're looking for picturesque waterfalls in Victoria, you don't need to look further than Hopetoun Falls. If you're up for it, follow the stairs, through the ferns, down to the viewing platform below for the most impressive view of the waterfall.
Soak up the spray as the falls plummet 30 metres into the Aire River. Surrounded by the glades of tree ferns, this serene experience feels almost prehistoric in its beauty.
Aire Valley Road, Beech Forest
Sheaok Falls
Strike out on the Sheoak Falls Walk, as it weaves its way from the coastal woodland at the mouth of the Sheoak Creek through wet forest to the hidden cascades of Sheoak Falls. This is one of the most popular waterfalls near Lorne and is a perfect stop on your drive along the Great Ocean Road.
A place of real tranquility and natural beauty, the waters of Sheoak Creek cascade like shimmering beams of light down a sheer rock face into a pool surrounded by trees.
It's a short walk from the carpark to the falls (although there are plenty of steps), so if you're partial to the idea of a longer stroll, continue up the trail to see Swallow Cave. It's quite the climb, but you'll also see some alternative views of the falls along the way, making it completely worth it. One of the best waterfalls in Victoria for the endless peaceful feel it evokes.
Great Ocean Road, Lorne
Erskine Falls
Only a short drive from the Great Ocean Road is Erskine Falls. Wander through the lush rainforest to discover the falls, then climb down the stairs to see the waterfall from its second lookout. If you're feeling adventurous, continue the walk down the river for 7.5 kilometres to take in even more of the stunning surrounding scenery.
Great Otway National Park
Triplet Falls
Triplet Falls is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Victoria. Another one found along the Great Otway Park, it offers a ambient and beautiful one hour loop walk through ancient rainforest.
View the lower cascades as you follow raised walkways through the forest of Mountain Ash and Myrtle Beech to the main falls. As you finally step out from the forest, you'll begin to hear the roar of Triplet Falls. Here, a series of elevated viewing platforms provide you with spectacular views of the three cascades. Distinct, impressive and utterly transfixing, these are the falls to fall head over heels for.
Phillips Track, Wyelangta
Phantom Falls
Discover the delights of Phantom Falls. This picturesque, 15 metre tall waterfall is another Otway National Park treasure, reachable via a popular, 90-minute return rainforest hiking track. From Lorne, drive 10 minutes up Allenvale Road until you reach the Allenvale Mill Picnic Grounds. After starting the track you’ll cross the St George River and skirt around the edge of a private orchard.
Continue on the track along the river’s edge until it turns into a vehicle track above the rocky bed of the St George River (here you’ll find some steep sections with loose gravel) passing stunning Australian Bushlands. Soon enough, you’ll arrive at the top of Phantom Falls, where you can descend down the stairs to the large pool at the base.
For more experienced hikers, consider taking a more arduous journey to Cora Lynn Cascades or continue on to The Canyon and Sheoak Picnic Area for a relaxing lunch in pristine surrounds.
Allenvale Road, Henderson Track, Lorne
Best Waterfalls in Victoria: Grampians
MacKenzie Falls
One of the most iconic waterfalls in Victoria, MacKenzie Falls is a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. Take in the view from above at the viewing platform or, if you're looking for something a little more challenging, strap on your walking shoes and hike the steep track to the base. Once you're down make sure to reward yourself and cool off with a dip in the falls.
Grampians National Park
Fish Falls
The Grampians offer some of the best waterfalls in Victoria worth exploring this summer - and Fish Falls, as it cascades 60 metres over terraced rocks into a pool below, might just be our low-key favourite.
Easily accessible from the popular Zumsteins Picnic Area via the Mackenzie River Walk, the lead up to the falls is a moderate 4.6 kilometre return trip that follows the river upstream.
Pack a picnic and rest your tired feet in the pool at the base of the falls, or climb the steps to the top. Adventurers, continue on the track to the more famous MacKenzie Falls.
Zumsteins Picnic Area, Mt Victory Road, Zumsteins
Wannon Falls
There ain't no waterfall quite like a punchbowl waterfall, and Wannon Falls is something of a distinct beauty in that regard.
Located in the Southern Grampians, just 20 kilometres west of Hamilton, it presents a spectacular display of water flowing down the falls into a deep plunge pool below. Wannon Falls was crafted by basalt lava flow that surged upstream to the Wannon River.
That's right. The water, which cascades over a 30-metre vertical precipice into a deep plunge pool below, is actually flowing over hardened basalt lava. It's a stunning display, and one of the more unique waterfalls in Victoria to have your natural wonders bucket list this year.
Sitchu Tip: Both waterfalls are at their biggest and best after a winter or spring rainfall.
Glenelg Highway, Wannon
Best Waterfalls in Victoria: Gippsland
Toorongo Falls
Keen to brave a bracing dip in a swimming hole above a set of waterfalls this summer? Toorongo Falls is the place to do it! In fact, Toorongo Falls may just be heaven on earth, with its sumptuous views of the water cascading over the tiered rocks below. Fill your lungs with earthy-forest goodness as you hike to the top of the falls on the 2.2km Toorongo & Amphitheatre Falls Loop.
After taking in the magnificent scenery, carry on walking to Amphitheatre Falls to complete your waterfall tour. This is where you'll be able to slip into the water to escape the heat of a summers day.
There are photo opportunities all along the river, with moss-covered rocks and tree ferns offering a vibrant, magical background. The most magical part? The serenade of the flowing water all the way from the car park to the top of the falls.
Toorongo Falls Reserve, Noojee
Agnes Falls
Hidden away within the green, rolling hills of the Strzelecki Ranges, the meandering Agnes River cascades from a 59 metre height over rocks into a deep picturesque gorge. Come with a picnic and prepare to fall in love with birdwatching at Agnes Falls, surrounded by a protected pocket of old forest and native bushland.
Listen to the rush of the nearby falls as you lay out a blanket under the tall eucalypts, and listen to the birdsong of Grey Fantails, Crimson Rosellas and Kookaburras. You might even spot a possum or wallaby.
A real patch of serenity near the Gippsland coastline, this a essential scenic stop on a day trip exploring the region's southernmost surrounds.
Sitchu Tip: The falls are even more spectacular in wet seasons and after heavy rain.
125 Agnes Falls Road, Hazel Park
Morwell River Falls
Get off the beaten track and swing past enchanting countryside and forested gullies to find the pretty and peaceful Morwell River Falls. Flowing through the valleys of the Strzelecki Ranges for more than 40 kilometres, the Morwell River comes to a set of waterfalls that lie in its upper reaches, near the township of Boolarra. The first is framed by an overhanging tree branch and swing; then moving downstream, the water cascades over two more consecutive drops. It's a real adventure to get there too, driving over gentle gravel past lush surrounds to find a picnic area where the walking track down to the falls begins. A remote little aquatic wonder worth the journey, this is one of our favourite waterfalls in Victoria.
Morwell River Road, Grand Ridge
Best Waterfalls in Victoria: Goldfields & Central Victoria
Trentham Falls
One of the most impressive waterfalls in Victoria is Trentham Falls. The water cascades over 32 metres before reaching the river below and is carried over ancient basalt columns. Whilst you can't access the waterfall from the top, the viewing area is only a short walk from the carpark. The falls are located just over an hour out of Melbourne and make a great scenic spot for a packed picnic lunch.
Trentham Scenic Reserve Road, Trentham
The Blowhole
This waterfall has been carved into the side of the hill on Sailors Creek. Located just outside of Hepburn Springs, these falls will delight nature and history buffs alike. Constructed in the 1870's, the tunnel was designed to help miners in their search for gold. Nowadays it's a popular spot in the Hepburn Springs area for visitors who come to discover the history of the region.
Hepburn Regional Park, Blowhole Road, Hepburn Springs
Best Waterfalls in Victoria: Melbourne. Dandenong Ranges, Yarra Valley & Bellarine Peninsula
Dights Falls
Established in 1895 to give the workers at the Melbourne Flour Milling Company water, Dights Falls is where the saltwater from the surrounding ocean joins with the water from the Yarra River. These are the closest falls to the Inner City and are popular with cyclists who cycle the Yarra Trail that passes through the falls.
142 Trenerry Crescent, Abbotsford
Wombelano Falls
Wander through tall eucalypt forest and lush gullies to the perfectly framed Wombelano Falls. Enjoy beautiful views from the lookout and spy the falls as they cascade 90 metres down into the gully below.
This is a real hidden gem tucked away in the gullies of Kinglake National Park. Its picturesque beauty makes it one of the must-see waterfalls near Melbourne.
You'll also find a little hum of peace within the serenity of nature on the pleasant bushwalk to and from the falls. The 1.5km circuit weaves through scenic forest rich with ferns and towering trees.
Captains Creek Road, Kinglake West
Olinda Falls
Olinda Falls in the Dandenong Ranges is a shorter but no less sweeter experience than most on this list. The walk to the viewing platform will only take 10-15 minutes and is shaded the whole way, which makes it the perfect waterfall to visit on a hot summers day.
Just beyond Mount Dandenong, Olinda Falls Picnic Area is your gateway to accessing the beautiful Olinda Falls. Enjoy a picnic in the peaceful surrounds and keep your eyes and ears peeled for lyrebirds; common throughout the park.
Olinda Falls Reserve, Dandenong Ranges
La La Falls
This tranquil walk through the rainforest near Warburton will lead you over enchanting stone arch bridges and past bubbling streams on your way to the main waterfall. So, if you're looking for an invite to explore one of the best waterfalls in Melbourne, this is it!
Irruka Road, Warburton
Steavenson Falls
The highest waterfalls in Victoria, Steavenson Falls are 84 metres high and a favourite of locals and visitors alike. We recommend setting out on the Tree Fern Gully Trail, which starts from the heart of the nearby town and goes for 3.4 kilometres to the base of the falls. Expect an awe-inspiring view upon arrival.
Falls Road, Marysville
Buckley Falls
Head to Buckley Falls Reserve this summer - this tranquil riverside nature reserve sits just outside of Geelong, has stunning waterfall views, and is an area of environmental, historical and cultural significance. It also features excellent walking and biking tracks, perfect for when you're finished taking in the beauty of the rock cascades that belong to Buckley Falls. The falls spill into the Bunyip Pool, a deep circular pool in the bend of the Barwon River. A low-key gem.
Highton, Victoria
Best Waterfalls in Victoria: North East Victoria & High Country
Snobs Creek Falls
With an amazing viewing platform fixed to the rock face jutting off the side of the falls and out in front of the rushing water, this is a destination not to be missed when it comes to chasing waterfalls in Victoria. Snobs Creek Falls has surprisingly good flow, played out as a series of small rock drops in quick succession, with a wide curtain of water falling into the pool at the top of the cascades. It's also abundantly surrounded by lush ferns, mosses and fungi indigenous to the moist eucalypt forest environment created by the falls itself.
From the carpark its an easy 150 metre walk to the platform, where you'll watch with awe the power of the water as it plummets 20 metres into the creek below.
Snobs Creek Falls Walk, Eildon, Victoria
Woolshed Falls & Beechworth Gorge Cascades
Beechworth is a historic gem, and sitting just outside it lies Chiltern-Mt Pilot National Park, where the flow of Woolshed Falls is a popular destination for both nature lovers and history buffs alike. The area was once the centre of one of the richest goldfield’s in Australia, where up to 8,000 prospectors camped along the banks of Spring Creek, in search of their fortune.
The falls are a ten minute drive north from Beechworth, where you can view the cascading falls, enjoy a leisurely picnic or take a self-guided walk around the alluvial gold workings. An observation deck provides views to falls and the valley below, which is particularly spectacular after heavy rainfalls.
Equally as enchanting are the closer to town Beechworth Cascades, which provide ample rockpools for dipping into on a hot day amongst the stunning scenery.
Woolshed Falls, Woolshed Falls Road, Beechworth
Beechworth Cascades, Gorge Road, Beechworth
Ladies Bath & Eurobin Falls
At Ladies Bath Falls, water cascades into a brilliantly clear pool of water, while at Upper and Lower Eurobin Falls, Crystal Creek flows spectacularly over a formidable granite ledge. With only a short walk to see all three, this is an excellent half-day trip if you are holidaying near Bright.
Although the waterfall doesn't look very big, this creek has formed the huge chasm you get to see at the top of Eurobin Falls. A beautiful spot for a picnic and, in the summer, to escape the heat of the Ovens and Buckland valleys. Just be careful when you are cooling off at Ladies Bath Falls; the rocks can be very slippery.
Mount Buffalo Road, Bright
Paradise Falls
This little slice is a little off the beaten track, but so worth it for its unique beauty. Buried deep in the King Valley, Paradise Falls is located in the Alpine National Park outside of Cheshunt in North East Victoria.
The last 11 kilometres to get to the falls is upon gravel, but it's in good condition so is accessible with 2WD. Pack a lunch and settle in to enjoy this peaceful park and falls, as it cascades an uninterrupted 31 metres from a conglomerate rock formation.
The walk to the viewing platform is a well made stepped track perfect for all ability levels, following the rock formation of the waterfall. True to its name...the place truly is paradise!
For the more adventurous, take the Falls Walking Track from the car park to Wobonga Plateau. It's a 7 kilometre return trip that will take you up to McMillan's Track Lookout. From here, absorb the breathtaking views of the Upper King River and Lake William Hovel, as well as the rolling hills stretching towards the peaks of Mount Stirling and Mount Buller.
Paradise Falls Road, Cheshunt
Has this round-up got you falling head-over-heels to see Victoria's best waterfalls? If you're interested in exploring more of regional Victoria check out our guide to the the must see wonders in Victoria and explore the best caravan parks in Victoria for weekend road tripping. Adventure awaits!