Hike at a Glance
Max elevation: 179m
Min elevation: 110m
Total Ascent: 156m
Hike overview
Witness the grandeur of Tolmer Falls, considered one of Litchfield National Park's most spectacular waterfalls. Cascading over two escarpments into a deep plunge pool, the falls offer a breathtaking sight. Open year-round, Tolmer Falls is a popular destination for visitors. While camping is not permitted, the surrounding area provides habitat for rare Ghost Bats and Orange Horseshoe Bats.
An off-the-beaten-path adventure awaits experienced hikers on the 8.3km Tolmer Falls to Lost City hike. This challenging route traverses the park's upper tableland terrain, offering a unique perspective of the landscape. Due to the distance (almost 9km round trip) and lack of shade, an early start is crucial to avoid the afternoon heat. Remember to bring plenty of water, as none is available at The Lost City itself.
The reward for this challenging hike is reaching The Lost City – a collection of towering sandstone formations that resemble ancient ruins. These formations were created by the erosion of softer sandstone, leaving behind the impressive rock structures we see today. The Lost City was once a landmark along an old wagon road used by pioneers, with the last section of the current access road following the original route. However, this 4WD track is typically closed until June or July, making the Tolmer Falls hike an alternative way to access The Lost City during the wet season.
Track grade
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.
Practical information
- Only for experienced bush walkers.
- Take water, Good hat, PLB or EPIRB, Sunglasses [the start of the walk is directly into the rising sun], compass & copy of
- Australian Topographical Chart 5071 'Reynolds River'
- Note LOST CITY is incorrectly positioned - correct position is FL881380 which is approx 700 mts west of where it is shown.
Walk map and GPX file
Max elevation: 179 m
Min elevation: 110 m
Total climbing: 156 m
Total descent: -171 m
GPX files, maps and content are copyright Trail Hiking Australia. Not to be copied, redistributed or uploaded to other platforms including AllTrails.
Explore safely
Planning this hike? Most incidents develop before you even start. Safe outcomes depend on how navigation, hydration, environment, load and judgement work together. Small oversights can compound quickly in Australian conditions. See how it happens in the Hiking Safety Systems Foundations. Then use the Hiking Safety Systems, planning calculators, and make sure a trusted contact has your trip plan before heading out.
Leave a trip plan
Before you go, complete a trip intentions form and share it with a trusted contact. Agree on a Late-Back Time and ask them to call 000 (Police) if you have not checked in. A clear trip plan is one of the simplest and most effective safety steps you can take.
Planning checklists
Download the hiking preparation and safety checklists before leaving home to help you think through your plans. They help ensure important considerations are not overlooked and support safer decision-making on the trail.
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Litchfield National Park.
Drive to Tolmer Falls in Litchfield National Park, Northern Territory. Follow the marked trail East to Tolmer Creek then South along the creek & cross when the creek turns West. There is a bench on the other side & the hike starts from here.
There is no marked trail & no phone reception.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Accommodation nearby
Find accommodation close to the trailhead including hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Use the interactive map to explore available options in nearby towns.
Nearby towns: Adelaide River, Batchelor, Berry Springs, Darwin, Howard Springs, Humpty Doo, Katherine, Pine Creek, Rum Jungle, Wangi Falls
About the region
Litchfield National Park: A Natural Wonder of the Northern Territory. Litchfield National Park, encompassing roughly 1,500 square kilometres, is a jewel of the Northern Territory. This ancient landscape, shaped by water over millennia, boasts a captivating array of natural wonders. Cascading waterfalls tumble from the sandstone plateau of the Tabletop Range, forming crystal-clear pools ideal for swimming.
The park is significant to the Koongurrukun, Mak Mak Marranunggu, Werat, and Warray Aboriginal people, with their ancestral stories woven into the very fabric of the landscape. Visitors can explore shady monsoon forest walking trails, marvel at the unique magnetic termite mounds, or be awestruck by the weathered sandstone pillars of the Lost City.
A Haven for Adventure
Litchfield National Park offers endless opportunities for exploration. Whether you seek refreshment beneath cascading waterfalls, marvel at fascinating termite mounds, discover hidden waterholes, or challenge yourself on hiking trails, this park caters to all interests. Camping is the primary accommodation option within the park boundaries, but various lodges and resorts are located nearby for those seeking different comforts. Even a well-planned day trip can allow visitors to experience the park's highlights.
History and Accessibility
The park's name honours Frederick Henry Litchfield, a member of the Finniss Expedition, the first European encounter with this region. Extensive mining for tin and copper dominated the area from the late 1800s until the mid-20th century. Declared a national park in 1986, Litchfield has become a haven for nature lovers.
While a sealed road connects the park's major attractions, a four-wheel drive vehicle is necessary to access The Lost City, Homestead, Central Valley, and the Reynolds River Track. During the dry season, this track allows experienced drivers to reach the Daly River Road. Renting a vehicle? Confirm if it's permitted on unsealed roads.
Accessibility is twofold. The park can be reached via the southern entrance near Batchelor or the northern entrance along Peninsula Way, forming the Litchfield Loop. This loop integrates the park with the Cox Peninsula, creating a more extensive sightseeing experience.
A Local Favourite
Litchfield National Park's pristine swimming holes and scenic walking tracks make it a cherished destination for Darwin residents. Basic amenities like meals and refreshments are available near Wangi Falls, while various accommodation options cater to different budgets and preferences, including campsites, cabins, and caravan parks within or near the park, and lodging options in the nearby township of Batchelor.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Litchfield National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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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.




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