Leliyn Edith Falls

Leliyn (Edith Falls) is a stunning series of cascades and plunge pools set in the ancient sandstone escarpment of Nitmiluk National Park, about 45 minutes north of Katherine. The falls are fed by Edith Creek and offer a refreshing, emerald-green swimming hole that’s perfect for a dip after a bushwalk. The area is rich in Jawoyn Aboriginal culture, with rock art sites nearby, and the surrounding savannah woodlands are home to diverse birdlife and wildlife. It’s a quieter, more intimate alternative to the better-known Katherine Gorge, making it a must-visit for travellers seeking uncrowded natural beauty on a Top End road trip.

Highlights & What to See

• Swim at the Main Plunge Pool – The large, deep pool beneath the upper falls is ideal for swimming; the water is usually calm and clear, with a sandy bottom and a small beach.
• Walk to the Upper Pools – The 1.6 km Leliyn Trail (return) leads to a series of smaller, quieter pools with views over the escarpment and the chance to see black-footed rock-wallabies.
• Short Walk to the Waterfall Viewpoint – An easy 200 m path from the car park gives a panoramic view of the falls and the entire pool area.
• Spot Wildlife – Keep an eye out for freshwater crocodiles (harmless), bird species such as rainbow bee-eaters, and wallabies in the early morning or late afternoon.
• Learn about Jawoyn Culture – Interpretive signs explain the significance of the area to the traditional owners, and you may see ancient rock art on the escarpment walls.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 2–3 hours at Leliyn, which allows for a swim, the short walk to the viewpoint, and a picnic lunch. If you want to do the full Leliyn Trail to the upper pools, budget 3–4 hours. The site is best visited in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds, especially from May to September. It’s an easy half-day trip from Katherine, or a relaxing stop on the way to or from Kakadu National Park.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge – Just 30 km south, this iconic system of 13 gorges offers boat cruises, canoeing, and scenic walks.
• Katherine – The nearest town, with supplies, accommodation, and the Katherine Outback Experience show.
• Cutta Cutta Caves Nature Park – A limestone cave system with guided tours, about 30 km south of Katherine.
• Katherine Hot Springs – Natural thermal springs along the Katherine River, perfect for a relaxing soak.
• Douglas Hot Springs Nature Park – A remote hot spring and camping area about 90 km west of Katherine.
• Manton Dam Recreation Area – A popular spot for water sports and birdwatching, 80 km north of Katherine.

Please check official sources for current details.