
There’s a reason the road connecting Coffs Harbour and Armidale is called the Waterfall Way. The picturesque drive is flanked by some of Australia’s most stunning waterfalls, the heritage-listed Gondwana rainforest, and lush river valleys. While the entire road trip can be completed in just 2.5 hours, nature lovers will be well served by making a beeline to the Dorrigo National Park. This is where the real adventure begins for waterfall lovers with some of the state’s finest peppered around the park. Add in atmospheric rainforest walks, towering trees, and turquoise swimming holes and you’ve got yourself an impossibly pristine getaway. Even better — you can stay overnight just steps from these magnificent natural wonders. Here are all the must-see waterfalls you should have on your radar at Dorrigo National Park.
Red Cedar Falls

Red Cedar Falls is the largest waterfall at Dorrigo National Park and an absolute showstopper. It’s not easy to get to but those who make the effort will be handsomely rewarded with a spectacular view of the falls, a gorgeous pool at the base, and lush green vegetation surrounding the area. The Red Cedar Falls walking track is a strenuous 8km trail, with a steep descent of about 1.2km and plenty of slippery surfaces. It demands a certain level of fitness so visitors are advised to come well prepared. Find more information about the track on NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.
Distance: 8km return
Time: 3.5 hours
Dangar Falls

If you haven’t been to Dangar Falls, chances are you’ve seen it pop up on social media feeds. The popular waterfall is one of the most picturesque in NSW set against a backdrop of lush forests and picture-perfect views and an inviting swimming hole that is practically begging to be dipped into. Unlike the Red Cedar Falls, the walk here is short and easy but still packed with beautiful forest vistas and lookouts. There’s also a staircase at the bottom of the falls making it easily accessible. The short and sweet walking track is a memorable experience that takes visitors right to the heart of beautiful rainforests.
Distance: 0.6km return
Time: 30 minutes
Crystal Shower Falls

Crystal Shower Falls is perhaps the most well-known in the area and for good reason — it’s among the few cascades you can actually walk behind. And those who’ve done it will tell you the best views are from behind the falls. The waterfall is part of the almost mystical Wonga Walk Circuit, a subtropical rainforest walk with 600-year-old trees and enchanting views. Once there, you can gaze through the veil at the waterfall from a rocky cavern as long as you wish but remember, the small swimming hole here is too shallow and not safe to swim in. The hike is easy-to-moderate with a paved trail that is mostly, with an uphill climb on the way back.
Distance: 3.2km return
Time: 1.5 hours
Tristana Falls
If you continue walking on from the Crystal Shower Falls, you’ll find yourself at Tristana Falls the most underrated waterfall and perhaps least visited of them all at Dorrigo but well worth a visit. Also part of the Wonga Walk, there is a footbridge here which provides dramatic views of the tall waterfall. The entire loop walk is about 6km and starts at the Dorrigo Rainforest Centre.
Distance: 4.4km return
Time: 2 hours
Where to camp

For the best views and easy access to the waterfalls, book a stay at Dangar Falls Lodge which offers guests full amenities and a cosy campground, just a short stroll from Dangar Falls. Its best asset is the location and it allows visitors a chance to fully immerse themselves in the area’s natural bounty. The caravan and camping area is dog friendly and you can make bookings for small crowds or larger groups of up to 13 people. If you’re not a fan of camping, we recommend staying in the beautiful, hippie town of Bellingen which is just a 25-minute drive from the national park. Find more accommodation options around Dorrigo here.
How to get to Dorrigo National Park
Dorrigo National Park is about a 6-hour drive from Sydney and just an hour from Coffs Harbour. Public transport is not easily available in these parts and driving is the most convenient way to get there. The park is open daily, except Christmas Day or during bad weather, with a small donation fee of $2.