Federal Falls

Plunging 40 metres into a fern-clad amphitheatre, Federal Falls is one of the most photogenic waterfalls on the Mid North Coast. Tucked away in the Cottan-Bimbang National Park, this three-tiered cascade is at its roaring best after rain, when mist drifts across the mossy boulders and the surrounding rainforest feels prehistoric. It’s a serene stop for self-drivers exploring the hinterland behind Port Macquarie.

Highlights & What to See

• The main lookout – A short, wheelchair-accessible platform offers a direct face-on view of the falls. Arrive early in the morning to catch rainbows in the spray.
• The base pool – A steep but rewarding track (600 m, moderate) descends to the plunge pool. On hot days, brave the bracing water for a wild swim surrounded by ancient tree ferns.
• Picnic area – Several picnic tables and a grassy clearing near the carpark make this an ideal lunch spot. Keep an eye out for lyrebirds scratching in the leaf litter.
• Wildflowers in spring – From September to November, the forest floor is dotted with flannel flowers, boronias and orchids.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow 1–2 hours for a relaxed visit. The lookout and a short wander takes about 30 minutes; add another 45 minutes if you tackle the steep descent to the pool. Federal Falls works best as a morning or late-afternoon stop on a loop drive through the national park.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Ellenborough Falls – Australia’s second-highest single-drop waterfall, a 40-minute drive south on the same escarpment.
• Boorganna Nature Reserve – Ancient rainforest with a boardwalk to Rawson Falls, ideal for birdwatching and picnics.
• Port Macquarie – The coastal hub offers great cafés, the Koala Hospital, and beautiful beaches – a 45-minute drive east.
• Wauchope – A charming country town with antique shops and the Timber Town heritage museum, en route from the coast.

Please check official sources for current details.