Waterfall Way

Waterfall Way is one of New South Wales' most spectacular scenic drives, a 185-kilometer stretch of road that winds through lush rainforest, past thundering waterfalls, and over the Great Dividing Range. Starting from the coast at Coffs Harbour and heading inland to Armidale, this route offers a feast of natural wonders, quaint country towns, and world-class national parks. Whether you're a nature lover, a keen photographer, or simply seeking a road trip with breathtaking views, Waterfall Way delivers an unforgettable journey.

Highlights & What to See

• Dorrigo National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Gondwana Rainforest, with the Skywalk offering panoramic views over the canopy and the 100-meter Dangar Falls nearby.
• Ebor Falls: A stunning two-tiered waterfall plunging 100 meters into a deep gorge, with easy viewing platforms and picnic areas.
• Wollomombi Falls: One of the highest waterfalls in Australia, dropping over 220 meters; the lookout provides a dramatic perspective.
• New England National Park: Home to ancient Antarctic beech forests, the Point Lookout track rewards hikers with sweeping views of the escarpment.
• Bellingen: A charming artsy town with a vibrant market scene, excellent cafes, and the crystal-clear Bellinger River for swimming.
• Armidale: The endpoint of the drive, a historic city with fine colonial architecture, museums, and the New England Regional Art Museum.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan at least two to three days to fully appreciate Waterfall Way, allowing time for short walks, waterfall viewing, and exploring the towns. A classic itinerary is to drive from Coffs Harbour to Dorrigo (day one), continue to Armidale via Ebor and Wollomombi (day two), and use a third day for deeper hikes in New England National Park or a side trip to the Oxley Wild Rivers National Park. The drive itself is around three hours without stops, but the real joy is in the detours and spontaneous lookouts.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Coffs Harbour – coastal start point with beaches and the Big Banana
• Dorrigo – gateway to Dorrigo National Park and the historic Dorrigo Railway
• Bellingen – artsy river town with a vibrant food scene
• Oxley Wild Rivers National Park – rugged gorges and more waterfalls
• Guy Fawkes River National Park – remote wilderness and wild rivers

Please check official sources for current details.