Edith Falls

Edith Falls, part of the Litchfield National Park, is a stunning series of cascading waterfalls and plunge pools surrounded by rugged sandstone escarpments and monsoon vine forest. Located about 60 kilometres north of Katherine, this serene oasis offers a refreshing escape from the outback heat and a chance to experience the Top End's dramatic wet-season waterfalls at their most powerful.

Highlights & What to See

• Plunge into the Lower Pool: The main swimming hole at the base of the falls is perfect for a cool dip, with a sandy beach and shady pandanus palms. The waterfall cascades over a 10-metre drop into a deep, clear pool.
• Hike to the Upper Pool: A 2.6-kilometre loop trail leads to a series of smaller pools and cascades, offering quieter swimming spots and panoramic views of the escarpment. Best visited early morning to avoid crowds.
• Sweetwater Pool Lookout: A short detour off the main trail rewards you with a bird's-eye view of the falls and the surrounding savannah woodlands.
• Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for wallabies, goannas, and a variety of birdlife, including rainbow bee-eaters and red-tailed black cockatoos.
• Picnic by the Creek: Shaded picnic tables near the lower pool make for a perfect lunch spot, with the sound of rushing water as your soundtrack.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 2–3 hours at Edith Falls, which is enough time to swim in the lower pool, walk the loop trail to the upper pools, and enjoy a picnic. If you plan to hike the longer 5.5-kilometre Edith Falls–Jatbula Trail section (a full-day walk), allocate at least 4–5 hours. The falls are accessible year-round, but the best swimming conditions are during the dry season (May to October), when the water is clear and the weather is mild.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk National Park): Just 30 minutes south, this iconic gorge system offers canoeing, boat cruises, and hiking trails through ancient sandstone cliffs.
• Litchfield National Park: Head north to explore Florence Falls, Wangi Falls, and the magnetic termite mounds, all within a 90-minute drive.
• Douglas Hot Springs: A natural thermal spring and swimming hole about 40 kilometres west, ideal for a relaxing soak after a day of hiking.
• Katherine Town: The nearest service centre, with supermarkets, fuel, and accommodation options, plus the Katherine Museum and the historic Springvale Homestead.
• Cutta Cutta Caves Nature Park: A limestone cave system with guided tours, located 30 kilometres south of Katherine.

Please check official sources for current details.