Photo: Brian W. Schaller / FAL
Thundering into a dramatic gorge on the New England Tablelands, Wollomombi Falls is one of Australia's tallest waterfalls, plunging over 220 metres in a two-tiered cascade. Surrounded by eucalypt forests and rugged escarpments, this awe-inspiring natural wonder offers breathtaking views, excellent bushwalking, and a sense of raw, untamed beauty that rewards those who make the journey.
Highlights & What to See
- Wollomombi Falls Lookout: An easy 200-metre paved walk leads to the main lookout, where you can peer straight down into the gorge and watch the water plummet – particularly impressive after rain.
- Chandler River Gorge: The waterfall feeds into this deep, dramatic gorge; walk along the rim for panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness.
- Wollomombi Gorge Walk: A 4.5-km return trail that descends into the gorge via a series of steps and switchbacks, offering changing perspectives of the falls and river – moderate fitness required.
- Picnic & Camping Facilities: The area has picnic tables, barbecues, and a basic campground, making it a great spot for a leisurely lunch or overnight stay under the stars.
- Birdwatching & Wildlife: Keep an eye out for wedge-tailed eagles, peregrine falcons, and wallabies that inhabit the escarpment.
Suggested Time to Spend
Allow at least 1–2 hours to visit the main lookout and enjoy a picnic. If you plan to hike the Wollomombi Gorge Walk or explore nearby trails, set aside a half-day. The site is best visited in the morning when the light is good for photography and the crowds are thin. Combine with a visit to nearby Oxley Wild Rivers National Park for a full day of waterfall chasing.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Oxley Wild Rivers National Park – home to several other spectacular waterfalls including Apsley Falls and Tia Falls, all within a scenic drive.
- Armidale – a charming university city with historic buildings, galleries, and a vibrant café scene, about 40 minutes south.
- Waterfall Way – a stunning driving route that connects multiple waterfalls and national parks between Armidale and the coast.
- Dorrigo National Park – a World Heritage-listed rainforest with skywalks and waterfalls, about 1.5 hours east.
- New England National Park – offers dramatic escarpment views, walking trails, and the chance to see the lyrebird.
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
- Oxley Wild Rivers National Park — Cgoodwin / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Apsley Falls — Cgoodwin / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Armidale — Terry Cooke / CC BY 2.0
- Waterfall Way — Cgoodwin / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Dorrigo National Park — Cgoodwin / CC BY-SA 3.0
- New England National Park — Shiftchange ( talk ) / Public domain