Trail Fast Facts
Waterfall walk is a 7.2km, grade 5 hike in Willi Willi National Park, New South Wales. This hike typically takes 4 hours to complete.
Hike Overview
On Waterfall walk you'll pass a magnificent strangler fig, through sub-tropical and warm temperate rainforest, to a sparkling waterfall and plunge pool where you can cool off with a refreshing swim after your walk.
Glossy green palms, brightly coloured fungi and delicate orchids line your path, and there are informative signs for those interested in the history of the area. Swimming is encouraged during your visit - the fertile rainforest ensures a warm, humid climate throughout the year, and the waterfall pool is an idyllic place to cool off on a warm day.
This medium difficulty walk leaves from Wilson River picnic area, where comfortable amenities include a shelter shed with large picnic tables for a relaxing barbecue. Easier trails like the scenic Botanic walk and Palm Grove walk also begin from here for those looking for a more casual post-picnic stroll.
Tips
There is limited mobile reception in this park
Remember to take your binoculars if you want to birdwatch
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
Waterfall walk is in the Wilson River precinct of Willi Willi National Park. To get there:From Wauchope:Take the Beechwood Road to BeechwoodThen turn onto Bellangary RoadTurn onto Hastings Forest WayTurn into Wilson River Road to reach the picnic areaFrom Kempsey:Take the Armidale Road from West KempseyAfter 35km turn onto Carrai Road at Toorooka near WillawarrinTurn onto Coachwood Road at Kookaburra Road quality Check the weather before you set out as the road to Wilson River picnic area can become boggy when it rains. Parking Parking is available at Wilson River 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.
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 Willi Willi 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 will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? 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
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.
Weather
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.