The Best Waterfalls in Victoria to Explore This Summer
Victoria, with its picturesque landscapes and breathtaking natural beauty, is home to some of the most stunning waterfalls in Australia. This summer, exploring these cascades can be a refreshing escape from the city life. Whether you’re looking for an easy hike or a more challenging adventure, there’s a waterfall in Victoria waiting to be discovered.
1. Erskine Falls – Nestled in the lush forests of the Great Otway National Park near Lorne, Erskine Falls plummets 30 meters into the fern-lined gully below. A short walk from the carpark brings you to an overlook, while adventurous visitors can take the steps down to the base for a more immersive experience.
2. MacKenzie Falls – One of the largest and most popular waterfalls in Victoria is MacKenzie Falls, located in the Grampians National Park. The falls flow year-round, making for a spectacular sight as water cascades over huge cliffs into a deep pool below. There are various viewing platforms and trails that suit all fitness levels, including a wheelchair-accessible path to a beautiful lookout point.
3. Trentham Falls – As one of the longest single-drop waterfalls in Victoria at 32 meters tall, Trentham Falls is just over an hour’s drive from Melbourne in the Wombat State Forest. The falls are easily accessible via a short walk and are best viewed after rain when they’re flowing at full strength.
4. Hopetoun Falls – Also in the Great Otway National Park, Hopetoun Falls offers a 30-meter drop into Aire River amidst ancient rainforests often shrouded with mist. An easy walk leads to an upper platform with great views, but descending to the base gives you that up-close feel of nature’s power.
5. Sherbrooke Falls – Located within Dandenong Ranges National Park, these falls are not as tall but are set within beautiful surroundings perfect for a family outing. An easy stroll through towering mountain ash trees and delicate ferns will lead you to this enchanting cascade.
6. Beauchamp Falls – This is another gem of the Great Otway National Park and requires a bit more effort to reach through dense rainforest terrain. Rewarding your efforts are views of water plunging into a serene pool where you can enjoy the sounds of nature undisturbed.
7. Silverband Falls – A unique feature within Grampians National Park is Silverband Falls, where water seems to disappear into a rocky base rather than pooling below. The gentle walk through native bushland makes it perfect for those seeking tranquility.
Each waterfall offers its unique charm and conjures an image of wild Victorian landscapes that promise adventure and relaxation alike. Remember to always respect nature’s beauty by staying on designated paths and taking rubbish with you. Whether it’s to witness roaring waters or seek out peaceful creek sounds hidden within fern-laden gullies, Victoria’s waterfalls provide cool havens during the warm summer months and never cease to amaze with their natural splendour.