Ranging from the abundant Kimberley to the nearby Darling Scarp, WA has so much to offer when it comes to waterfalls. Explore nearby waterfalls over the summer, and escape to WA’s north west during the peak season in the middle of the year to witness some of WA’s most picturesque natural wonders. We’ve rounded up some of the best of the best, so pack your bathers and dive in!
Lesmurdie Falls – Lesmurdie
One of Perth’s most accessible wonders, Lesmurdie Falls is overflowing over the colder months, but still makes for a stunning day trip and hike in early summer. Take the 2km circuit hike from the top of the Darling Scarp to the bottom while getting up close and personal with native flora along the way. Make sure to take sandwiches and snacks for a picnic at the base. Try visiting on a clear day to get a full scope of the plains along Perth’s coastline – you can even get a peek at Rottnest Island from up there!
Serpentine Falls – Serpentine
An absolute must for any Perth resident, Serpentine Falls is just an hour’s drive south of the Perth CBD. Get your hiking boots on and follow the 6km Baldwins Bluff hike to get the most amazing views across the valley. Or, if you prefer to relax, soak in the sunshine on the rock ledges or unwind under the flowing waterfall.
Fern Pool – Karijini
Nestled almost 1400km up North in Dales Gorge, Fern Pool is a spectacular oasis that glistens with turquoise water. Stay at the Dales campground for close proximity to where Fern Pool hides. From there, begin the walk trail, where you should follow signage until you reach the hidden sanctuary. While you are there, you can complete the trail and visit Fortescue Falls and Circular Pool for some of the Karijini National Park’s other nature hotspots.
Emma Gorge – El Questro Wilderness Park
If you’re chasing the ultimate remote Kimberley region experience, make sure you don’t miss the serene surroundings of Emma Gorge, located 100m south-west of Kununurra. Note that the gorge is only accessible from April to October. Prep yourself in the morning for the hour-long scenic walk to witness this spectacular 65m waterfall. Make sure to reward yourself with a swim in the cooling fresh water surrounded by cliffs and beautiful greenery. If you’re lucky, you might even come across the small thermal spring hidden amongst the rocks!
Horizontal Falls – Kimberley
Witness a completely unique phenomenon right here in WA. Horizontal Falls is the only place in the world where massive tidal movements cause the water to fall sideways. Dubbed “Australia’s most unusual natural wonder”, Sir David Attenborough gives his tick of approval. As the waterfall is not accessible from vehicle, make the most of this unique experience and opt to see the wonder via helicopter, seaplane or boat, available from Broome or Derby. Keep in mind that drastic tidal changes and unpredictable water mean the falls aren’t approachable between October through March.
Mitchell Falls – Kununurra
If you’re one for adventure, grab your best hiking shoes and travel the Punamii-Uunpuu Trail, a 8.6km round-trip walk to the stunning four-tiered Mitchell Falls. Along the way, stop and swim at mini-waterfalls, Little Mertens Falls and Mertens Gorge, as well as visiting ancient Aboriginal rock art sites. The trail takes you right up close to witness the magical emerald waters of Mitchell Falls, but note that there is no swimming – unless you want an intimate meeting with the resident salt-water crocodiles! Access to the falls is limited from September to May due to heavy rainfall and flooded, remote 4×4 tracks. Have the ultimate experience and witness the falls in style with a scenic helicopter ride, available all year around. Don’t forget your camera!
Manning Gorge – Kimberley
Get your toes – or entire body – wet while crossing 100m across Manning River, and complete a 3km hike to reach Manning Gorge. Make sure to take a hat and lots of water as a lot of the trail is unshaded. The gorge itself has several pools and you will be met with spectacular views at the top of the waterfall. If you look hard enough, you might even find some examples of Bradshaw and Wandjina rock art.
