Deep Creek Waterfall from Tapanappa Lookout is an 8km, grade 4 hike located in Deep Creek National Park, South Australia. The hike should take around 3 hours to complete.
Hike overview
Embark on a captivating 8km (grade 4) adventure to Deep Creek Waterfall in Deep Creek Conservation Park, South Australia. This roughly 3-hour journey through a well-graded trail rewards you with a hidden waterfall and a permanent waterhole nestled within a lush valley.
The trail begins at the car park at Tapanappa Lookout, leading you on a scenic descent into the valley. Immerse yourself in the cool, moist forest as you navigate the gullies along the well-maintained path.
While Deep Creek Waterfall's grandeur is most prominent in winter and after heavy rains, the permanent waterhole at its base offers a refreshing sight year-round. During wetter seasons, imagine the cascading waters creating a picture-perfect natural haven.
This hike is ideal for experienced hikers seeking a moderate challenge and a chance to commune with nature. The combination of the scenic descent, the refreshing waterhole, and the potential to witness the cascading waterfall makes this a rewarding adventure.
Route and GPX file
Max elevation: 211 m
Min elevation: 108 m
Total climbing: 334 m
Total descent: -334 m
Tips
- Due to the 8km distance and grade 4 rating, be prepared for a moderately challenging hike.
- Wear comfortable shoes with good tread for uneven terrain.
- Pack plenty of water, especially during warmer weather.
Trail location
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Gallery
Image: Walking SA
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About the region
Deep Creek NationÂal Park is the largest porÂtion of remainÂing natÂurÂal vegÂeÂtaÂtion on the Fleurieu PeninÂsuÂla and is home to an array of native wildlife such as westÂern grey kanÂgaÂroos, short beaked echidÂnas and 100 species of birds that can be heard and seen while walkÂing in the park. Whales can be seen cruisÂing the coast durÂing their annuÂal migraÂtion which takes place from June to October.
LocatÂed withÂin 100 km of AdeÂlaide, this park is a perÂfect desÂtiÂnaÂtion for a day trip or weekÂend getÂaway. Five campÂgrounds are dotÂted throughÂout the park with four of them accesÂsiÂble by 2WD vehiÂcles. The othÂer campÂground is ​‘hike-in’ only and sitÂuÂatÂed on the HeyÂsen trail, makÂing it an ideÂal enviÂronÂment for a famÂiÂly adventure.
The 15 walkÂing trails in the park proÂvide specÂtacÂuÂlar scenery of BackÂstairs PasÂsage, KanÂgaÂroo Island and the rugged Deep Creek ValÂley. The walks range from easy to very difÂfiÂcult so accomÂmoÂdatÂing for all ages and abilÂiÂties. The walkÂing trail netÂwork in Deep Creek NationÂal Park includes secÂtions of the famous HeyÂsen Trail.
Explore nearÂby Talisker ConÂserÂvaÂtion Park and disÂcovÂer the herÂitage-listÂed ruins of a silÂver and lead mine from 1860s or visÂit Encounter Marine Park which offers some of AusÂtraliÂa’s best-preÂserved ocean wilderness.
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Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Let someone know
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
Gear to consider
My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
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Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.