Leliyn (Edith Falls)

Leliyn (Edith Falls) is a stunning series of cascades and plunge pools on the western edge of Nitmiluk National Park, about 60 km north of Katherine. Unlike its famous neighbour Katherine Gorge, Edith Falls offers a more intimate, easily accessible swimming experience in a dramatic sandstone escarpment setting. The water is cool, clear, and inviting – perfect for a refreshing dip after a drive through the outback.

Highlights & What to See

• Upper Pool & Main Falls: A short 20-minute walk from the carpark leads to the main swimming hole, a large, deep pool fed by a curtain of water cascading over a rock ledge. It’s safe for swimming year-round (though check for croc warnings) and has shaded picnic areas.
• Sweetwater Pool: For a more secluded experience, take the longer 2.6 km Leliyn Trail that follows the escarpment edge to Sweetwater Pool, a quieter, emerald-green plunge pool with fewer crowds – allow 1.5 hours return.
• Leliyn Trail (loop): This 5.5 km loop (about 2 hours) circles above the falls, offering panoramic views of the surrounding bushland and the escarpment. It connects the main pool, Sweetwater Pool, and a lookout over the valley.
• Birdwatching & Wildlife: Keep an eye out for rainbow bee-eaters, red-tailed black cockatoos, and wallabies near the water’s edge, especially in the early morning.
• Picnic at the Falls: The main pool area has tables and gas barbecues – pack a lunch and make a day of it. The sound of falling water and the cool breeze make it an ideal spot to relax.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 2–4 hours at Edith Falls, which is enough for a swim at the main pool and a short walk. If you want to do the full Leliyn Trail loop and swim at Sweetwater Pool, budget a half-day (4–5 hours). It works well as a morning or afternoon stop en route between Katherine and the northern parts of the Stuart Highway, or as a day trip from Katherine.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge: The main attraction of the park, with boat cruises, canoeing, and walks – about 30 km east of Edith Falls.
• Katherine: A handy base with accommodation, supermarkets, and the famous Katherine Hot Springs for a post-hike soak.
• Cutta Cutta Caves Nature Park: A 27 km drive east of Katherine; explore limestone caves with guided tours and see rare orange horseshoe bats.
• Mataranka Thermal Pool: About 105 km south of Katherine, these crystal-clear thermal springs are perfect for a relaxing swim – combine with Edith Falls for a day of water adventures.
• Litchfield National Park: Further north (approx. 3 hours drive), famous for its waterfalls and plunge pools – a great addition to a longer Top End itinerary.

Please check official sources for current details.