Trail summary
Hike overview
The strenuous hike to Red Cedar Falls is one of suspense, with glimpses of dramatic views and World Heritage-listed rainforest. The waterfall is the largest in Dorrigo National Park, accessible by Red Cedar Falls walking track. Setting out on the hike to witness the beauty of Red Cedar Falls is definitely one of the best and most rewarding things to do if you're visiting the Coffs Harbour area.
Starting at Never Never picnic area, follow Rosewood Creek walking track for 2km to the turn-off. Descending steeply for 1.2km, you'll see towering red cedars and bangalow palms. The water plunges over the escarpment creating a mighty roar and a fine spray of mist. The scene is breathtaking.
Find a place to picnic, or save your appetite for the picnic area with its wood barbecues. Enjoy some birdwatching or listen out for stuttering barred frogs. To return, retrace your steps, or swing right at the turn-off to complete the rest of Rosewood Creek walking track.
Take a virtual tour of Red Cedar Falls walking track captured with Google Street View Trekker.
Tips
Take care on the slippery rock surfaces near Red Cedar Falls.
This area has high rainfall, so make sure you're well-prepared for your visit.
There is limited mobile reception in this park.
Visit NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service for more information on this trail.
The longitude and latitude of the start and end points are approximately only and should not be used for navigation purposes. Please contact me if you know the correct coordinates.
Map and GPX file
Looks like I don’t have a GPX file for this trail yet. If you have one you’d be willing to share, please email it to me so we can help other hikers have a safer, easier time out there. I’ll double-check each file to make sure it aligns with official tracks and topo maps before adding it to this hike. Thanks so much for helping build an even better hiking resource.
Getting there
Closest towns to this walk: Dorrigo, Bellingen, Ebor, Guyra, Urunga
Red Cedar Falls walking track commences at Never Never picnic area. To get to Never Never picnic area precinct of Dorrigo National Park:Enter Dome Road from Waterfall Way (1km south of Dorrigo) and follow it for 2km to get to Dorrigo Rainforest Centre.Dome Road veers to the left at Dorrigo Rainforest Centre. Follow for 10km to Never Never picnic area at the end of Dome Road. Parking Parking is available at Never Never picnic area.
Photo gallery
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
Track grade
Grade 5 (Difficult) - Walks for the Most Experienced: Grade 5 represents the most challenging walking tracks on the AWTGS. These are only recommended for very experienced and fit walkers with specialised skills, including navigation and emergency first aid. Tracks are likely to be very rough, very steep, and unmarked. Walks may be more than 20 kilometers. These challenging walks demand a high level of fitness and experience to navigate difficult terrain, significant elevation changes, and potentially unformed paths.
About the region
Dorrigo National Park in the North Coast region
Dorrigo National Park is open daily (except Christmas Day) 9am to 4.30pm but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.
9am to 4.30pm daily. Closed Christmas Day.
Suggest an edit
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.
Similar trails nearby
Looking for things to do in Dorrigo National Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
Let someone know
Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.
Explore safe
Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe
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.