Waterfall Way

Waterfall Way is one of New South Wales' most scenic drives, winding through lush rainforest, past thundering cascades, and into the cool highlands of the Great Dividing Range. This 185-kilometer route from Coffs Harbour to Armidale offers a stunning cross-section of Australia's diverse landscapes, from coastal hinterland to ancient volcanic plateaus. It's a paradise for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers, with countless waterfalls, national parks, and charming country towns along the way.

Highlights & What to See

• Dorrigo National Park & Dorrigo Rainforest Centre – Walk the Skywalk for canopy-level views, then descend to Crystal Shower Falls for a behind-the-waterfall experience.
• Dangar Falls – A short walk from Dorrigo township leads to this wide, powerful cascade plunging into a deep pool.
• Ebor Falls – A dramatic two-tiered waterfall on the Guy Fawkes River, with lookout platforms offering sweeping views over the gorge.
• Wollomombi Falls – One of Australia's highest waterfalls, plunging over 220 metres into a rugged gorge; the lookout is a short walk from the carpark.
• New England National Park – Hike to Point Lookout for panoramic views across the escarpment and, on clear days, to the coast.
• Bellingen – A vibrant artsy town with a lively market scene, great cafés, and the crystal-clear Bellinger River for swimming.
• Thunderbolts Way – A scenic detour through historic gold-mining country, linking Waterfall Way to the New England Highway.

Suggested Time to Spend

To fully appreciate Waterfall Way, plan at least two days – one to travel from Coffs Harbour to Dorrigo and explore Dorrigo National Park, and a second to continue east to Armidale, stopping at Ebor and Wollomombi falls. If you're short on time, a day trip from Coffs Harbour to Dorrigo and back covers the highlights. For hikers, add an extra day to tackle trails in New England National Park.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Coffs Harbour – The coastal starting point of Waterfall Way, with beaches, the Big Banana, and the Solitary Islands Coastal Walk.
• Armidale – The inland terminus, a university town with excellent museums, art galleries, and nearby national parks like Oxley Wild Rivers.
• Port Macquarie – A coastal base with a historic convict settlement, the Koala Hospital, and beautiful beaches; about an hour's drive from the Waterfall Way turn-off.
• Dorrigo National Park – A must-stop for its rainforest walks and the iconic Skywalk.
• Guy Fawkes River National Park – Offers rugged wilderness, wild rivers, and remote camping for experienced bushwalkers.

Please check official sources for current details.