Are There Any Waterfall Hikes Near Melbourne?

Yes! Melbourne is surrounded by beautiful waterfalls, forest trails, and scenic walking tracks that make excellent day trips for nature lovers. From short walks to cascading falls to longer hikes through the Dandenong Ranges and the Yarra Valley, there are plenty of places to explore within a few hours of the city.

The best time to visit is generally after rainfall, when waterfalls are flowing strongly. However, tracks can become slippery, and water levels vary with the season, so check local park alerts before setting out.

Here are six of the best waterfall hikes near Melbourne.

1. Olinda Falls — Best for a Short Forest Walk

Dandenong Ranges · Around 1 hour from Melbourne CBD

Olinda Falls is an excellent choice if you want to enjoy a waterfall without committing to a long hike. The trail passes through a forest of tall mountain ash trees before reaching viewing platforms overlooking the falls.

There are upper and lower viewpoints, so you can enjoy different perspectives of the cascading water. The walk is especially attractive after rainfall, when Olinda Creek is flowing well.

• Walk: Approximately 350 metres to the upper viewing platform, with a further 500 metres to the lower falls.

• Best for: Beginners, families, and short nature walks.

• Facilities: Picnic tables, toilets, and drinking water.

• Tip: Wear shoes with good grip, as the track can be slippery after rain.

Parks Victoria recommends Olinda Falls as one of the waterfall walks close to Melbourne.

2. Sherbrooke Falls — Best for a Rainforest Atmosphere

Sherbrooke · Around 1 hour from Melbourne CBD

Sherbrooke Falls is a lovely destination for people who enjoy walking through lush forest. The trail winds beneath towering mountain ash trees and tree ferns, creating a cool, green environment that feels far removed from the city.

The waterfall is relatively modest, but the forest scenery makes the walk worthwhile. Visit after a good spell of rain for the best chance of seeing a stronger flow.

• Walk: A short forest walk from the Sherbrooke or O'Donohue picnic areas; longer loop routes are also possible.

• Best for: Nature photography, birdwatching, and peaceful walks.

• Difficulty: Easy to moderate, depending on the route.

• Tip: Watch for muddy sections and stay on marked tracks.

Parks Victoria notes that the falls are particularly impressive after rain.

3. Masons Falls — Best for a Scenic Day Hike

Kinglake National Park · About 1–1.5 hours from Melbourne CBD

Masons Falls is a wonderful option if you want to combine a waterfall visit with a forest adventure. Located in Kinglake National Park, the area features tall eucalyptus trees, scenic viewpoints, and walking tracks through native bushland.

Start at Masons Falls Picnic Area and follow the signed walking route toward the waterfall lookout. You can enjoy a picnic before or after your walk, making this a good destination for a full day outdoors.

• Walk: Short walks are available from the picnic area to the lookout.

• Best for: Nature lovers, families, and photographers.

• Facilities: Picnic tables and free gas barbecues at the picnic area.

• Tip: Check park alerts before leaving, especially after storms or during fire season.

Parks Victoria recommends Masons Falls as a waterfall destination around 65 km north of Melbourne.

4. Steavenson Falls — Best for an Impressive Waterfall

Marysville · Around 2 hours from Melbourne CBD

Steavenson Falls is one of Victoria's most impressive waterfalls, dropping approximately 84 metres through a forested valley. It's a rewarding destination if you want a spectacular waterfall without undertaking a strenuous hike to reach the main viewing area.

A well-formed walking track leads from the car park to views near the base of the falls. More energetic visitors can climb stone steps toward an upper viewing platform.

• Walk: Approximately 700 metres return to the main viewing area.

• Best for: Scenic photography, families, and day trips.

• Difficulty: Easy for the main track; more challenging if climbing to the upper viewpoint.

• Tip: Allow extra time to explore Marysville's cafés and nearby forest attractions.

The official Victorian walking guide describes the main track as a flat, well-formed walk with occasional steps. A parking fee may apply.

5. Erskine Falls — Best for a Longer Nature Adventure

Erskine Falls is a beautiful waterfall tucked into the rainforest of Great Otway National Park, near the coastal town of Lorne. Water cascades into a fern-lined valley, creating one of the region's most photogenic natural settings.

You can admire the falls from the upper lookout or take the steps down toward the base for a closer view. The descent and return climb are more demanding than the short lookout walks near Melbourne, so wear suitable footwear and allow plenty of time.

• Walk: Short lookout access, with a steeper stairway route to the base.

• Best for: Hikers, photographers, and rainforest scenery.

• Difficulty: Moderate for the return trip to the base.

• Tip: Combine the visit with nearby coastal walks or other waterfalls around Lorne.

Erskine Falls is included in Parks Victoria's recommended Great Ocean Road waterfall itinerary.

6. La La Falls — Best for a Woodland Hike

Warburton · Around 1.5 hours from Melbourne CBD

La La Falls is a rewarding destination for walkers who want a little more exercise. The trail passes through native forest before reaching a picturesque waterfall surrounded by greenery and rocky outcrops.

The walk includes uphill sections, so it is more suitable for people comfortable with a moderate hike. Visit after rainfall for a better chance of seeing the waterfall flowing strongly.

• Walk: Roughly 3.2 km return, depending on the route and starting point.

• Best for: Woodland scenery, couples, and active day-trippers.

• Difficulty: Moderate.

• Tip: Carry water and allow time for the uphill return journey.

Which waterfall hike should you choose?

Drive times are estimates and vary with traffic and the starting point.

Tips for waterfall hiking near Melbourne

• Visit after rain: Waterfalls are often strongest in winter and spring, although flows vary.

• Check track conditions: Trails may close after storms, fallen trees, or other hazards.

• Wear grippy footwear: Rocks, stairs, and muddy paths can be slippery.

• Bring water and snacks: Especially for longer walks and uphill returns.

• Stay behind barriers: Never climb onto wet rocks or enter plunge pools; strong currents and submerged hazards can be dangerous.