Waterfall Way

Waterfall Way is a stunning 185-kilometre scenic drive linking the lush hinterland of the New South Wales North Coast to the New England tablelands. This route winds through ancient rainforests, past cascading waterfalls, and over dramatic escarpments, offering a quintessential Australian nature experience. The road is sealed and suitable for all vehicles, but its twists and turns reward those who take their time. Along the way, you’ll encounter World Heritage-listed national parks, charming country towns, and some of the most photogenic waterfalls in the country.

Highlights & What to See

• Dangar Falls: A short walk leads to a wide, curtain-like cascade plunging into a swimming hole near Dorrigo — perfect for a refreshing dip on a warm day.
• Dorrigo National Park: Walk the Skywalk for a bird’s-eye view over the rainforest canopy, then descend onto the Wonga Walk to experience towering figs, glowworms, and the roar of Crystal Shower Falls.
• Ebor Falls: A dramatic two-tiered waterfall dropping into the Guy Fawkes River gorge; the upper falls are easily viewed from a lookout platform, while the lower falls require a short walk.
• New England National Park: At the highest point of the drive, this park offers alpine-like heathlands, walking trails, and the breathtaking Point Lookout with views over the vast wilderness.
• Bellingen: A vibrant artsy town with a thriving café scene, artisan galleries, and the weekly Bellingen Community Market — a great spot for a coffee break or lunch.
• Dorrigo: A historic timber town with a relaxed vibe, home to the Dorrigo Railway Museum and the famous Dorrigo Mountain Pass, which marks the start of the Way.
• Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for lyrebirds, pademelons, and even platypuses in the rivers and creeks along the route.

Suggested Time to Spend

To truly appreciate Waterfall Way, allocate at least a full day for the drive from Coffs Harbour to Armidale (or vice versa), including stops at the major waterfalls and short walks. For a more relaxed pace, consider overnighting in Dorrigo or Bellingen to break the journey. If you’re keen on longer hikes, budget two to three days, allowing time to explore the national parks and enjoy the local food scene in the towns.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Coffs Harbour: The coastal gateway to Waterfall Way, with beautiful beaches, the Big Banana, and the Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve.
• Armidale: The highland terminus of the drive, known for its New England Regional Art Museum, historic buildings, and nearby gorges.
• Urunga: A coastal town at the southern end of the Waterfall Way, featuring a picturesque boardwalk over the lagoon and ocean swimming.
• Grafton: Famous for its jacaranda-lined streets and the historic Grafton Bridge, about an hour east of the Way’s midpoint.
• Nymboida River: A popular spot for canoeing and kayaking, located near the junction of the Waterfall Way and the Gwydir Highway.

Please check official sources for current details.