While many road trips in NSW are centred around the coast, there are plenty of diverse landscapes waiting to be explored inland. From vibrant, changing leaves in high-altitude towns to long, winding trails that lead past stunning natural wonders, there is something inherently thrilling about being off the beaten path. So why not try a route that is a little less travelled than the others?
Winding past waterfalls, national parks, rainforests and even a famous ‘big thing’, the Waterfall Way is one of our favourite road trips all year round, but there’s something extra special about it as winter sets in. The route is often cloaked in moody, atmospheric fog, waterfalls surge after seasonal rains, and the rainforests are vibrant, green, and a joy to drive through. Fill the tank and hit the road — here’s everything you need to know about the picturesque, under-the-radar road trip.
Waterfall Way Road Trip, NSW
Connecting the cities of Coffs Harbour and Armidale, this scenic 185km drive is packed with natural beauty at every turn. You can comfortably complete it in just 2.5 to 3 hours, but the dramatic waterfalls, ancient forests, deep gorges and sprawling national parks are well worth a stopover. There are five standout stops on the drive, and we encourage you to get out of the car to make the most of them. Planning the full road trip can be intimidating, so to help you get started, here are the highlights of the spectacular Waterfall Way road trip.
Coffs Harbour
The drive kicks off on the Coffs Coast, and if you’re road tripping between May and November, you’re in luck. This is prime time for spotting majestic humpback whales on their migration. You can also swing by the Big Banana Fun Park for some off-season fun without the crowds, sip delicious local coffee (Coffs Harbour was recently recognised as having the best in Australia), and of course, snap a selfie with the iconic Big Banana.
Bellingen
Winding past the Bongil Bongil National Park, home to one of NSW’s largest populations of koalas, a 30-minute drive south will bring you to Bellingen, a bohemian town enveloped in nature. Think of it as a free-spirited alternative to Byron Bay, but with far fewer crowds. While its natural swimming holes are legendary, cooler temps might steer you toward its funky cafés, independent boutiques, or the lively Bellingen Community Markets for a taste of local life. If you’re tempted to stay longer, check out our full guide to Bellingen.
Dorrigo National Park
Keep heading west on the Waterfall Way and you’ll reach Dorrigo National Park, where the road winds through dense, World Heritage-listed rainforest. It’s part of the most diverse stretch of rainforest on Earth, and a quieter spot compared to other parks in the region. Stay a while and soak in the beauty of some of the most spectacular waterfalls you’ll see anywhere in NSW — from the postcard-perfect Dangar Falls to the lesser-known Tristana Falls. Chase more waterfalls here.
Dorrigo
Perched in the Northern Tablelands, the small town of Dorrigo is almost entirely wrapped in national parks, making it a perfect base for nature lovers. Don’t miss the Dorrigo Rainforest Centre and Skywalk for an unforgettable aerial view over the forest canopy. The temperature drop adds to the appeal with crisp air and quiet trails, which are best explored without dealing with the summer heat. Get your fill of nature here, then it’s on to the next oasis.
Armidale
Capping off the drive is Wollomombi Falls, located about 40km east of Armidale and ranked among the highest waterfalls in the country. From there, your final stop is Armidale itself: Australia’s highest city and a true autumn and winter wonderland. Its leafy streets are sprinkled with grand heritage buildings, historic churches, famous breweries, and cosy cafés that are perfect for a warm drink and a bite after the drive. Want to stick around a little longer? Check out our full guide to Armidale.
Plan your full drive, discover more stops, and find accommodation options along the way here.
Key details
Where: Waterfall Way drive
Distance: 185km
Total time: 2.5 to 3 hours with no stops on the way
Grade: Easy
Best time to go
The Waterfall Way is beautiful year-round, but late autumn and winter are perfect for cooler temperatures, lush green scenery, and fewer crowds fighting for parking. Plus, you can also take advantage of cheaper accommodation. If you’re coming from Sydney, it’s about a 5.5-hour drive to Coffs Harbour, where the road trip begins.