Hopetoun Falls

DANGER: Sheer cliffs and waterfalls. One slip could be fatal—serious injury or death may result from walking near the edge. Keep to the track. Supervise children closely.

Great Otway National Park Waterfall & Nature Guide

Immerse yourself in the cool rainforest depths of Great Otway National Park at Hopetoun Falls, one of Victoria's most iconic and photogenic natural attractions. Plummeting 30 metres into the lush, fern-lined glade of the Aire River, this spectacular waterfall showcases the ancient, misty rainforest environment of North Beech Forest along the iconic Great Ocean Road hinterland.

Visitors can take in the sights from an accessible upper viewing platform just steps from the parking area, or venture down a steep, stepped pathway descending into the canopy of giant tree ferns. At the base, a timber boardwalk offers dramatic, front-row views of the roaring curtain of water. Surrounded by towering blue gums, lush mosses, and rainforest flora, Hopetoun Falls is a must-see destination for nature enthusiasts, bushwalkers, and landscape photographers alike.

Activities

• Waterfall & Nature Viewing: Observe the 30-metre cascade from upper and lower vantage points.
• Hiking & Bushwalking: Descend the 200-step rainforest walk to the lower viewing boardwalk.
• Nature Photography: Capture long-exposure waterfall shots framed by ancient tree ferns.
• Scenic Driving: Explore the scenic Otway hinterland routes, including nearby stops like the California Redwood Forest and Triplet Falls.
• Birdwatching & Wildlife Spotting: Spot local rainforest bird species and forest wildlife in the canopy.

Facilities

• Parking: Sealed roadside parking at the trailhead with overflow vehicle bays.
• Viewing Platforms: Accessible upper lookout platform and lower river-level timber boardwalk.
• Trail Signage: Safety and natural heritage interpretive signs at the walk entrance.