Maddens Falls — Attraction in Wollongong City Council

A beautiful "off the main route" scenic spot. Please note that it's a little bit hard to find but Google Maps really help. However if you see the Apple Shack/Darkes Cider apple orchard on the right then you have arrived. As you will find the relatively limited space Maddens Falls car park almost immediately opposite.

As we are currently emerging from the Ice Age Lockdown (or more commonly known as COVID-19) it may have not be a indication of typical visitor numbers. However it was relatively quiet and peaceful, with only a small trickle of visitors sling in both directions.

The walk down the fire trail is a relatively easy grade for those with reasonable mobility. The fire trail leads to a constructed raised walkway that continues off right and leads you to the falls lookout.

The falls are definitely worth the effort and the constructed viewing platform provides a good view of the falls, flowing water, the drop below and the impressive rocks formations that can be seen below right of the viewing platform.

While the falls are the only major sight at this location, it is a very appealing location and a lovely walk through the natural bushland.

At the time we visited the Banksia (Bottlebrush) was in glorious and colourful bloom.

Following your trekking adventure, why not reward yourself with a visit to the Apple Shack/Darkes Cider apple orchard across the road. We did and it was well worth it, but due to the abovementioned restrictions no taste sampling was possible. Which was unfortunate as we were curious to try a number of...

Maddens Falls in Dharawal National Park is a wonderful mix of natural beauty and accessibility. The highlight is, of course, the waterfall itself — a wide, cascading drop that looks especially striking after rain, flowing into the lush valley below. The surrounding cliffs and bushland make it a very photogenic spot, with a real sense of tranquility.

One of the best things about Maddens Falls is how easy it is to reach. The walking track is short, flat, and well-maintained with a boardwalk, making it suitable for families, casual walkers, and even prams or wheelchairs. Along the way, you’ll pass through native bush filled with wildflowers in spring, and there’s a good chance of spotting birds or other wildlife.

The lookout platform at the end gives you a safe and clear view of the falls and the gorge beyond — perfect for photos or simply taking in the scenery. Because it’s relatively easy to access, it can get a little busy on weekends, but it’s far less crowded than some of the bigger national park attractions around Sydney and Wollongong.

Facilities are basic — there are no toilets or picnic areas right at the falls, so it’s worth planning ahead. The car park is small, so arriving early is a good idea.

Pros: • Stunning waterfall and valley views • Short, easy, family-friendly walk with a boardwalk • Rich bushland and birdlife • Great for photography and a quick nature escape

Cons: • Limited parking • No on-site facilities like toilets or picnic areas • Flow can be reduced...

We visited this beautiful place on June long weekend. It takes slightly bit more than an hour from Sydney by car and just 12-15 mins drive from actual Waterfall station.

There is plenty of parking space just outside the entrance, though off-street type. From entrance to the falls is 5-10 mins easy stroll. Bird lovers can watch out for a glimpse of various birds while walking.

At the end of the trail, there is a small platform which gives nice vantage point for those who want to enjoy this view safely from the distance. It’s a awesome view.

If you need to go close to actual fall or enjoy falling water, you will need to go off the platform, get down through rocky bush walk. Area around the fall is not fenced and there are slippery patches near water and one need to cross small gap between 2 large rocks to reach to actual fall.

Adults who wants to go for bit more adventurous hike, they can go further down through unmarked rocky walk tracks. Good hiking shoes are must for better grip to cross large rocks and few slippery patches.

We completed full circle around forest and reached back to other end of platform near falls after around 90 mins of hike.

Area below fall is natural beauty with couple of tiny natural rock ponds, small caves and natural rock formation. (Bit disappointed with graffiti on the cave rocks.)

Overall nice place to be on a your day off to get close to the nature. Definitely...