Photo: Bjenks / CC BY-SA 3.0
Thundering into a fern-filled gorge in Morton National Park, Fitzroy Falls is one of the NSW Southern Highlands’ most dramatic waterfall experiences. The 81-metre drop is best appreciated from the network of lookouts and walking tracks that hug the escarpment edge, offering sweeping views across the wild Yarrunga Valley. This is a place where the raw power of water meets the serenity of ancient bushland – and where you can feel the spray on your face while wallabies graze nearby.
Highlights & What to See
- The Main Lookout: A short wheelchair-accessible boardwalk leads to the main viewing platform, where the full force of Fitzroy Falls is on display – especially after rain when the flow is thunderous.
- West Rim Walk: This 3 km return track follows the escarpment edge past several lesser-known lookouts (Jersey, Twin Falls) and offers superb birdwatching – keep an eye out for lyrebirds and wedge-tailed eagles.
- East Rim Walk: A more secluded 4 km return trail that winds through eucalypt forest to Renown Lookout, with uninterrupted views of the valley and, on clear days, all the way to the coast.
- Picnic Area & Visitor Centre: The well-maintained picnic grounds and café make for a relaxed stop, while the visitor centre provides excellent interpretive displays on the area’s geology and Aboriginal heritage.
Suggested Time to Spend
Give yourself at least 1–2 hours to take in the main lookout and one of the rim walks. If you want to do both the West and East Rim walks, allow 3–4 hours, including a picnic break. The falls are at their most spectacular after heavy rain, but the walks are enjoyable year-round – spring brings wildflowers, and autumn offers crisp, clear skies.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Morton National Park: Extend your day with a walk to the Belmore Falls or a drive through the park’s scenic forest roads.
- Bowral: The charming Southern Highlands town is a 20-minute drive away, perfect for lunch at a heritage café or browsing antique shops.
- Kangaroo Valley: Just 30 minutes south, this picturesque valley offers river paddling, historic Hampden Bridge, and the popular Kangaroo Valley village.
- Fitzroy Falls Reservoir: A tranquil spot for a short walk or birdwatching, located just before the falls entry gate.
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
- Morton National Park — Baltimike / CC BY 2.0
- Bowral — Maksym Kozlenko / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Kangaroo Valley — user:Grahamec / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Fitzroy Falls Reservoir — Bjenks / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Southern Highlands — Photohome_UK / CC BY 2.0
- Berrima — Maksym Kozlenko / CC BY-SA 3.0