Photo: Bjenks / CC BY-SA 3.0
Plummeting 81 metres into a forested gorge, Fitzroy Falls is one of the most spectacular waterfall viewing experiences in the Southern Highlands. The sheer volume of water, especially after rain, creates a mist that catches the light and paints rainbows across the escarpment. This is a place where you can feel the raw power of nature just metres from the lookout.
Highlights & What to See
- Fitzroy Falls Lookout: A wheelchair-accessible boardwalk leads to the main viewing platform, offering an unforgettable head-on view of the falls. The spray on your face and the thunderous roar are the real deal.
- Wilderlook Walk: A 1.5 km return walk along the escarpment edge reveals several smaller cascades and panoramic views over the Morton National Park. Keep an eye out for lyrebirds and wallabies.
- East Rim Walking Track: For a longer adventure, this 8 km return trail takes you deeper into the park, passing through ancient rainforest and past more waterfalls like Jersey Falls and Loddon Falls.
- Visitor Centre: A modern centre with exhibits on Aboriginal heritage, local wildlife, and the geology of the escarpment. The café here serves excellent coffee and pies with a view.
Suggested Time to Spend
Most visitors spend 1–2 hours at the falls, which allows time to take in the main lookout and do the short Wilderlook Walk. If you're keen on a longer hike, set aside at least half a day to explore the East Rim track. The site is a perfect stop on a self-drive itinerary through the Southern Highlands — arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Bowral: The charming town of Bowral is just 20 minutes away, known for its antique shops, the Bradman Museum, and the beautiful Corbett Gardens.
- Morton National Park: Beyond the falls, this vast park offers excellent bushwalking, birdwatching, and picnic spots. The Belmore Falls and Bundanoon are nearby highlights.
- Berrima: A historic village with well-preserved 19th-century buildings, boutique wineries, and the Berrima Courthouse. A lovely lunch stop.
- Kangaroo Valley: A scenic drive through the valley leads to the historic Hampden Bridge and the Kangaroo River, perfect for kayaking and swimming.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Bowral — Maksym Kozlenko / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Berrima — Maksym Kozlenko / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Kangaroo Valley — user:Grahamec / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Morton National Park — Baltimike / CC BY 2.0
- Bundanoon — Winston M. Yang Wyp / CC BY-SA 3.0