Waterfalls in Queensland

Planning a waterfall trip in Queensland

Tropical North Queensland has the biggest falls. Wallaman Falls in Girringun National Park near Ingham is the tallest permanent single-drop waterfall in Australia, at 268 metres. On the Atherton Tablelands, the waterfall circuit near Millaa Millaa links several falls on one loop road, and Josephine Falls sits below Mount Bartle Frere in Wooroonooran National Park.

In the south-east, the Gold Coast hinterland is the easy day trip from Brisbane. Springbrook National Park has Purling Brook Falls, Twin Falls and the Natural Bridge, a waterfall that pours through the roof of a cave. Lamington National Park has dozens more on longer rainforest walks. The Sunshine Coast hinterland has Kondalilla Falls near Montville, and Queen Mary Falls near Killarney is a short drive from Warwick.

The wet season runs roughly from December to April and brings the biggest flows, especially in the north. It also brings road closures, flooded crossings and dangerous currents, so a fall in full flood is often one to watch from the lookout. Winter is drier and cooler, which makes it good for the longer walks, but many smaller falls in the south-east slow to a trickle by spring.

Queensland doesn’t charge entry fees for its national parks. You need a camping permit to stay overnight, and a vehicle access permit for some beach and island areas such as K’gari. The access badge on each waterfall reflects the latest Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service alerts.

Swimming is one of the main draws, but treat every swimming hole with care. Never jump from rocks or the top of a fall, and stay out after heavy rain, when the water rises quickly. In the far north, check for crocodile warning signs before you swim in any creek near the coast or lowlands. Each waterfall page says whether swimming is allowed and when it is unsafe.