This hike includes a challenging off-trail section. Expect steep terrain, dense vegetation, and potential for route-finding difficulty. Only attempt this hike if you are experienced and comfortable with off-trail navigation.
The Horseshoe Falls hike in Great Otway National Park, Victoria, offers a rewarding 12km (round trip) Grade 4 challenge. Expect to spend roughly 4 hours enjoying this scenic route.
Unlike many waterfalls, Horseshoe Falls won't appear on Google Maps. Instead, rely on topographic maps to locate it. The falls are roughly east of Big Hill Campground and north of Big Hill Track, nestled along Reedy Creek. This description focuses on the route starting from Big Hill Campground via Big Hill Track. It's also possible to access the falls from points like Beach 333 or Big Hill Lookout.
The initial leg of your adventure begins at Lorne-Deans Marsh Road near Big Hill Campground and follows Big Hill Track. This 4WD track offers a reasonably easy stroll or gentle downhill practice for mountain bikers, through the towering forest.
Around the 5km mark, keep an eye out for subtle markers indicating the turnoff point. There are a couple of tracks flagged off Big Hill Track so ensure you are at the right one. Here, the relatively easy 4WD track gives way to a rugged and challenging off-trail section (justifying the Grade 4 rating). Be prepared for some challenging navigation through dense vegetation as you descend a particularly steep (45Ëš) incline towards Reedy Creek. Look closely for any faint footpaths and flagging tape to guide you and minimise environmental impact. Following any existing footpads helps adhere to Leave No Trace principles.
After completing the descent, you'll arrive at Reedy Creek, but keep in mind this is downstream from Horseshoe Falls. Locate the north bank of the creek and navigate through the lighter scrub. Follow the flow of the creek upstream for about five minutes. As you progress, keep an eye out for Horseshoe Falls. The lush ferns, moss-covered rocks, and minimal signs of visitors will create a sense of discovery upon arrival.
Horseshoe Falls offers a unique opportunity to walk behind the cascading water, but this path requires careful rock hopping. Proceed with caution if you choose to explore. Once you've reached the falls, find a comfortable spot to relax and enjoy your well-deserved lunch. Soak in the fresh air and appreciate the beauty of this hidden gem, hopefully free from mosquitos and leaches.
To complete this hike, retrace your steps back to Big Hill Campground near Lorne-Deans Marsh Road.
Big Hill Campground
Nestled amidst towering trees in a spacious, easily accessible clearing, Big Hill Campground is your gateway to adventure in the Great Otway National Park. Whether you're seeking thrills on mountain bike trails, exploring the wilderness in your four-wheel drive, or simply unwinding in a peaceful natural setting, Big Hill offers the perfect base camp. Keep your eyes peeled for the vibrant flash of King Parrots and Crimson Rosellas flitting through the trees, and with a bit of luck, you might even spot a koala.
The campground provides 13 campsites, each comfortably accommodating up to six guests. Sites 1-7 are ideal for tent campers, while sites 8-13 can handle camper trailers and caravans. Please note that all sites are unpowered. Basic amenities include non-flush toilets, shared campfire areas, and communal picnic tables. Remember to bring your own firewood to enjoy crackling campfires under the stars, and be sure to practice responsible fire safety to protect the surrounding environment.
Advanced bookings and payment are required throughout the year to secure your campsite at Big Hill Campground.
- Use a topographic map of the area for accurate navigation.
- Consider using a GPS device as a backup.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support.
- Pack plenty of water and snacks for the journey.
- Be aware of potential wildlife encounters, especially snakes during warmer months.
- Let someone know your planned route and estimated return time.
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Main image: Goin' Feral One Day At A Time
Total distance: 11410 m
Max elevation: 446 m
Min elevation: 189 m
Total climbing: 451 m
Total descent: -451 m
Every trail on this site has been personally mapped and refined to support Australia’s hiking community. While some info comes from land managers, each listing reflects significant personal work. Please don’t upload GPX files or content from this site to AllTrails or any other platform. This is a free community initiative—your respect helps keep it that way.
Closest towns to this walk: Apollo Bay, Beech Forest, Colac, Forrest, Lavers Hill, Lorne, Skenes Creek, Wye River
Getting to the trailhead in Great Otway National Park.
The trailhead for this hike, Big Hill Campground, is conveniently located near the intersection of Big Hill Track and Lorne-Deans Marsh Road in Benwerrin.
The Great Otway National Park stretches from Torquay, along the world-famous Great Ocean Road and up through the Otways hinterland. Discover windswept coastlines and breathtaking waterfalls in tall mountain forests, walk the iconic Great Ocean Walk, immerse yourself in the Otway Lightstation's history, or surf some of the best breaks in Australia. Enjoy the great outdoors and explore the wonders of the Great Otway National Park.
The Great Otway National Park is in southern Victoria, Australia. It covers rugged coastland, beaches and the mountains of the Otway Ranges. Waterfalls dot the park, including the 3 cascades of Triplet Falls. Boardwalks lead through temperate rainforest at Maits Rest. The 1848 Cape Otway Lightstation perches on cliffs overlooking Bass Strait. Great Ocean Walk leads through the park to the Twelve Apostles rock formations.
Looking for hikes and trails in Great Otway National Park or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.
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Grade 4 (Hard) -
Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the
AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.
Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
8 Reviews on “Horseshoe Falls Otways (12km)”
Walked this from the Big Hill Campground along Big Hill Track. This is a challenging hike with some off-trail sections, so be sure to wear proper footwear and be comfortable navigating with a map and compass. Coming from this direction there are a couple of tracks flagged Big Hill Track so make sure you’ve located the right one. There’s some flagging tape on the off trail section but it is still difficult to follow. I lost it, picked it up and lost it again only to find it again at the creek. If you can’t find the tape, make sure you are on the right spur and you can’t go wrong, just head down to Reedy Creek. Pretty falls and well worth the walk, noting there are easier waterfalls to access in the Otways.