Waterfall walking track

Thredbo-Perisher area in Kosciuszko National Park

Open, check current alerts 

Overview

Waterfall walking track is ideal for a bushwalk, easy jog, and even birdwatching through Kosciuszko National Park, close to Jindabyne.

Distance
6km loop
Time suggested
1hr 30min - 2hrs 30min
Grade
Grade 3
Entry fees
Park entry fees apply
Opening times

Waterfall walking track is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather, snow conditions or fire danger.

What to
bring
Drinking water, hat, sunscreen, suitable clothing

Waterfall walking track is a great option for most weather conditions as it's a sheltered walk which is also conveniently close to Jindabyne.

You can start the walk at either Sawpit Creek picnic area or Kosciuszko Education Centre. Then, once you’ve taken the underpass beneath Kosciuszko Road, it’s time to be blown away by the rugged beauty and diversity the Snowy Mountains region is renowned for.

You'll pass through a variety of settings on this 6km hike, including tall eucalypt forest, outcrops of hefty granite boulders, and flowering and fruiting heathland. Then, of course, there’s the waterfall itself, which is wonderfully peaceful. Head to the platform on the south side for great scenic views. Be sure to check out the tall, fibrous-barked alpine ash trees nearby, which were logged in the area late last century and can grow to 90m tall.

This easy track is equally great for an afternoon bushwalk, early morning run, or nature-spotting session in Kosciuszko National Park. Local wildlife includes wallabies, kangaroos and echidnas, along with a range of birdlife in the trees.

Take a virtual tour of Waterfall walking track captured with Google Street View Trekker.

For directions, safety and practical information, see visitor info

Map


Map


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Map legend

Current alerts in this area

There are no current alerts in this area.

Local alerts

For the latest updates on fires, closures and other alerts in this area, see https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/waterfall-walking-track/local-alerts

General enquiries

Park info

  • in the Thredbo-Perisher area of Kosciuszko National Park in the Snowy Mountains region
  • The Thredbo-Perisher area is open all year, but some roads and trails may close due to weather conditions or park management issues. Kosciuszko Road is closed between Perisher and Charlotte Pass in winter (June to October long weekends).
  • Park entry fees apply on Alpine Way and Kosciuszko Road

    Winter (June to October long weekends): $29 per vehicle per day (24hrs from purchase); motorcycles $12; bus passengers $11.45 per adult, $3.60 per child per day. Find out more about the winter entry surcharge.

    Rest of Year: $17 per vehicle per day (24hrs); motorcycles $7; bus passengers $6.60 per adult, $2.20 per child per day.

    Passes: Day passes, multi-day passes and annual All Parks Pass available from NPWS visitor centres, local agents and operating vehicle entry stations. Single and Multi-Day passes are also available via the Park'nPay app. Short Breaks Pass: $68 for 5 days park entry at price of 4 days (not valid winter).

    Read our Annual Pass FAQs for information.

    Buy annual pass (//pass.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/).
See more visitor info

Visitor info

All the practical information you need to know about Waterfall walking track.

Track grading

Features of this track

Distance

6km loop

Time

1hr 30min - 2hrs 30min

Quality of markings

Clearly sign posted

Experience required

Some bushwalking experience recommended

Gradient

Gentle hills

Steps

Occasional steps

Quality of path

Formed track, some obstacles

Getting there and parking

Get driving directions

Get directions

    Waterfall walking track is in the southern precinct of Kosciuszko National Park. To get there from Jindabyne:

    • Drive along Kosciuszko Road towards Perisher Valley
    • You can either begin the walk from Kosciuszko Education Centre on  Kosciuszko Road, or continue driving 400m past it, and then turn left into Kosciuszko Mountain Retreat.
    • Take the first left down a short dirt road to reach Sawpit Creek picnic area - the other starting point for Waterfall walking track.

    Road quality

    All 2WD vehicles need to carry snow chains in winter, between June and October long weekends, on:

    • Kosciuszko Road (to Perisher)
    • Guthega Road
    • Alpine Way between Thredbo and Tom Groggin

    Snow chains are recommended for all vehicles driving in the park, including 4WD and AWD, in the event of extreme weather. Read our snow driving in Kosciuszko tips.

    Parking

    Car parking is available at both Sawpit Creek picnic area and Kosciuszko Education Centre. Bus parking is only available at Kosciuszko Education Centre.

    Maps and downloads

    Safety messages

    Alpine safety

    Alpine areas present special safety issues. Conditions can be extreme and may change rapidly, particularly in winter. It’s important to be prepared and find out how to stay safe in alpine areas.

    Bushwalking safety

    If you're keen to head out on a longer walk or a backpack camp, always be prepared. Read these bushwalking safety tips before you set off on a walking adventure in national parks.

    Mobile safety

    Dial Triple Zero (000) in an emergency. Download the Emergency Plus app before you visit, it helps emergency services locate you using your smartphone's GPS. Please note there is limited mobile phone reception in this park and you’ll need mobile reception to call Triple Zero (000).

    Water activities

    The aquatic environment around rivers, lakes and lagoons can be unpredictable. If you're visiting these areas, take note of these river and lake safety tips.

    Waterfall safety

    Waterfalls are beautiful destinations but please be safe when visiting these natural wonders. Read these waterfall safety tips before exploring waterfalls on your next walk.

    Prohibited

    • Cycling, including fat bikes or snow bikes, is not permitted on this track.
    • Cross-country skiing is not permitted along Waterfall walking track.

    Drones

    Flying a drone for recreational purposes is prohibited in this area. Drones may affect public enjoyment, safety and privacy, interfere with park operations, or pose a threat to wildlife. See the Drones in Parks policy.

    This area may be a declared Drone Exclusion Zone, or may be subject to Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) rules for flying near airports, aerodromes and helicopter landing sites. See CASA's Drone Flyer Rules.

    Commercial filming and photography

    Commercial filming or photography is prohibited without prior consent. You must apply for permission and contact the local office.

    Pets

    Pets and domestic animals (other than certified assistance animals) are not permitted. Find out which regional parks allow dog walking and see the pets in parks policy for more information.

    Smoking

    NSW national parks are no smoking areas. The alpine resorts of Thredbo, Perisher, Charlotte Pass, Selwyn, Ski Rider and Kosciuszko Tourist Park are exempt, though some commercial and outdoor places within these resorts may have no smoking areas.

    Visitor centre

    Learn more

    Waterfall walking track is in Thredbo-Perisher area. Here are just some of the reasons why this park is special:

    Explore the rooftop of Australia

    Snowy Region Visitor in Jindabyne, gateway to Kosciuszko National Park. Photo: Elinor Sheargold/OEH

    Skiers and snowboarders will be familiar with the fabulous snow sport facilities at Thredbo, Perisher and Charlotte Pass, but there are endless activities year-round. This area is a mecca for walkers and riders. Take in the spectacular 3600 views from Snow Gums boardwalk or Dead Horse Gap walk. A hike to Mount Kosciuszko is a must, while the awe-inspiring Main Range loop explores glacial lakes and the dramatic Western Fall. Take to 2 wheels on Thredbo Valley track, or get an adrenaline charge on the famous Cannonball Run. If you need some inspiration, stop by the Snowy Region Visitor Centre for tips on top experiences, guided tours, and where to stay. Kids can also learn more on a school excursion to the Kosciuszko Education Centre.

    • Cross-country skiing activities in Perisher Feel the thrill of carving fresh tracks on the cross-country trails with Perisher X-Country. It’s a beautiful way to experience the alpine environment of Kosciuszko National Park.
    • Kosciuszko laser biathlon sessions Whether it's summer or winter, give the thrilling sport of biathlon a try. With the help of instructors from NSW Biathlon, you'll learn to combine the skill of laser target shooting with skiing or roller skiing.
    • Kosciuszko walk - Thredbo to Mount Kosciuszko This iconic day walk from Thredbo will have you conquering the summit of Mount Kosciuszko in a couple of hours. You'll quite literally be on a high as you soak in the epic views from Australia's highest point.
    • Perisher Valley Office Perisher Valley Office, in the heart of Perisher Valley, is a handy last-minute stop for advice, maps, hiking essentials and important information before your alpine adventures in Kosciuszko National Park.
    • Schlink Hut walking track Schlink Hut walking track is a high alpine hiking or mountain biking adventure near Perisher, visiting 3 historic huts in Kosciuszko National Park. Winter access is by snowshoe or cross-country skiing only.
    • Snowy Mountains retreats with the Wim Hof Method Rediscover the possibilities of your mind and body over 3 incredible days in the Snowy Mountains. Hike, swim and learn the Wim Hof Method on an invigorating guided tour with Wild Things Anatomy.
    • Snowy Region Visitor Centre Snowy Region Visitor Centre, in Jindabyne, is a great place for visitors to get information, brochures, maps and park entry passes before heading into Kosciuszko National Park.
    • Thredbo Valley track adventure rides Experienced mountain bike riders can get their thrills on Thredbo Valley track in Kosciuszko National Park. From the world-class 37km ride, to short technical sections, try these adventure options.
    • Thredbo Valley track easy rides If you're looking for an easy mountain bike ride in the Snowy Mountains, try these family-friendly sections of the famous Thredbo Valley track, between Thredbo village and historic Bullocks Hut.
    Show more

    World-class wilderness

    Blue Lake, on Main Range walk in Kosciuszko National Park. Photo: E Sheargold/OEH

    In recognition of Kosciuszko's unique value as a conservation area, it's been named a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. More than half of the area of the park, over 350,000ha, has been declared wilderness, including the rugged Western Fall wilderness of the Main Range. It also contains Blue Lake, a rare cirque lake formed by the head of a glacier. Blue Lake is a listed  Ramsar site, recognised for the role it plays in preserving rare and threatened species. The Australian Alps received National Heritage recognition in 2008, and were named one of Australia's National Landscapes.

    • Schlink Hut walking track Schlink Hut walking track is a high alpine hiking or mountain biking adventure near Perisher, visiting 3 historic huts in Kosciuszko National Park. Winter access is by snowshoe or cross-country skiing only.

    Alpine plants and animals

    Corroboree frog (Pseudophryne corroboree), Kosciuszko National Park. Photo: John Spencer

    The park has over 200 species of alpine flowering plants and provides important habitat to nationally endangered species, such as southern corroboree frogs and broad-toothed rats. Ancient snow gums, twisted and stunted from the blasting effects of wind, snow and ice, mix with alpine ash and fragrant alpine mint bush. Above the treeline only heath, snow grass and the hardiest plants face the cold. Slow-growing mountain plum pine, some over 500 years-old, cling to boulders for warmth, providing shelter and food for threatened mountain pygmy-possums. Bogs of spongy sphagnum moss soak up the snow melt, to be released into alpine streams. From late spring to early summer, the heath is dotted with patches of wildflowers like alpine sunrays and snow daisies, yellow billy buttons, and the anemone buttercup, found only in Kosciuszko National Park.

    • Biodiversity survey The biodiversity survey school excursion in Kosciuszko National Park for Stage 4 (Years 7-8) students focuses on Science. Investigate what 'biodiversity' means and use field equipment to assess the biodiversity of sample quadrats along a transect in the montane forest.
    • Biodiversity survey The Biodiversity survey school excursion in Kosciuszko National Park for Stage 5 (Years 9-10) students focuses on science and fieldwork skills. Investigate what 'biodiversity' means and use field equipment to assess the biodiversity of sample quadrats along a transect in the montane forest.
    • Charlotte Pass Village to Perisher Valley walk Charlotte Pass Village to Perisher Valley walk lets you explore the natural wonders of NSW high country. 12.7km one way and immersed in nature, it’s an ideal day walk in Thredbo-Perisher area.
    • Environmental scientist Primary students learn to think like an environmental scientist in this Stage 3 Science and Technology excursion. They'll investigate living things and their habitats in Kosciuszko National Park, and then plan and do their own simple scientific investigation.
    • Going up the mountain Going up the mountain is a school excursion in Kosciuszko National Park for Stage 6 (Years 11-12) students focusing on Geography. Students will use field work to record and compare the geology, weather, native plants, animals, human use and sustainability of the montane, sub-alpine and alpine ecosystems.
    • Guthega to Charlotte Pass walk Take in majestic views of Australia's highest peaks on the Guthega to Charlotte Pass walk, near Thredbo and Perisher. Follow the Snowy River and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
    • Kosciuszko - a special place Kosciuszko a special place is a presentation for stage 6 (year 11-12) students focusing on Geography. This excursion highlights the unique natural and cultural features of Kosciuszko National Park, interaction of the four spheres, human impacts, sustainability and park management. Students have the opportunity to have their questions answered by an NPWS education officer.
    • Main Range walk Intrepid hikers can tackle the challenging Main Range walk, which takes in glacial lakes, historic huts, and the summit of Mount Kosciuszko, across alpine high country in Kosciuszko National Park.
    • Mountain pygmy possum guided tour Treat the kids to a day of adventure in Kosciuszko National Park these school holidays. You’ll explore the habitat of one of Australia’s cutest endangered critters – the mountain pygmy possum.
    • Muzzlewood track Muzzlewood track is a summer mountain bike trail between Thredbo Diggings campground and Bullocks Flat, in Kosciuszko National Park. It’s popular with experienced riders, and is easily combined with Thredbo Valley track.
    • Perisher Valley to Bullocks Flat walk Experience a taste of adventure in the Snowy Mountains on this 12km walk from Perisher Valley to Bullocks Flat in Kosciuszko National Park.
    • Porcupine Rocks guided walking tour These school holidays, bring the kids on this 5.7km, family-friendly guided walk to Porcupine Rocks in the Perisher area of Kosciuszko National Park. Enjoy the alpine wildflowers that bloom in summer.
    • Water bug detectives: Stocky galaxias creek tour Join this family-friendly guided tour to catch water bugs, the smallest creatures in our alpine rivers and streams. Find out about their relationship with the rare stocky galaxias fish in Kosciuszko National Park.
    Show more

    Unique landscapes

    Snowy River crossing at Charlotte Pass on Main Range walk, Kosciuszko National Park. Photo: Elinor Sheargold/DPIE

    Kosciuszko National Park is a huge park containing Australia's only true alpine environment, the highest part of the Great Dividing Range, and all of NSW's ski resorts. Above the treeline of snow gums - the only trees to grow at this altitude - is a unique landscape of alpine herb fields, feldmark, bogs and tarns. A walk to the highest peak in mainland Australia, Mount Kosciuszko, is the perfect way to see this landscape. Walk from Thredbo or Charlotte Pass, and marvel at the huge granite tors and lakes carved out during Australia's last Ice Age, between 35,000 and 10,000 years ago.

    • Cross-country mountain bike tours Challenge yourself on the brilliant trails of Kosciuszko National Park with K7 Adventures. From beginner to advanced level, there's a mountain bike experience waiting for you in the Snowy Mountains.
    • Environmental scientist Primary students learn to think like an environmental scientist in this Stage 3 Science and Technology excursion. They'll investigate living things and their habitats in Kosciuszko National Park, and then plan and do their own simple scientific investigation.
    • Going up the mountain Going up the mountain is a school excursion in Kosciuszko National Park for Stage 6 (Years 11-12) students focusing on Geography. Students will use field work to record and compare the geology, weather, native plants, animals, human use and sustainability of the montane, sub-alpine and alpine ecosystems.
    • Guthega to Charlotte Pass walk Take in majestic views of Australia's highest peaks on the Guthega to Charlotte Pass walk, near Thredbo and Perisher. Follow the Snowy River and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
    • Kosciuszko - a special place Kosciuszko a special place is a presentation for stage 6 (year 11-12) students focusing on Geography. This excursion highlights the unique natural and cultural features of Kosciuszko National Park, interaction of the four spheres, human impacts, sustainability and park management. Students have the opportunity to have their questions answered by an NPWS education officer.
    • Kosciuszko introductory mountaineering courses Learn mountaineering fundamentals on these thrilling multi-day expeditions at Kosciuszko with the expert guides of Climbing the Seven Summits.
    • Kosciuszko laser biathlon sessions Whether it's summer or winter, give the thrilling sport of biathlon a try. With the help of instructors from NSW Biathlon, you'll learn to combine the skill of laser target shooting with skiing or roller skiing.
    • Kosciuszko walk - Thredbo to Mount Kosciuszko This iconic day walk from Thredbo will have you conquering the summit of Mount Kosciuszko in a couple of hours. You'll quite literally be on a high as you soak in the epic views from Australia's highest point.
    • Mount Kosciuszko guided day walk experience Join the friendly guides of Bang Fitness Adventures to walk Australia’s highest trails in Kosciuszko National Park. Enjoy the company of a small group of like-minded adventurers as you immerse yourself in majestic views of alpine high country and summit Australia’s highest peak.
    • Mount Kosciuszko guided sunset hikes Taken in heavenly sunset views from Australia’s highest peak, then stargaze as you hike back down to Thredbo village on this exciting summer hike with the friendly guides of Thredbo Resort.
    • Mountain bike adventures for schools Mountain biking on Thredbo Valley track in Kosciuszko National Park is a fantastic experience for students. Let Action Learning Initiatives design the perfect program for your school group.
    • Mountain pygmy possum guided tour Treat the kids to a day of adventure in Kosciuszko National Park these school holidays. You’ll explore the habitat of one of Australia’s cutest endangered critters – the mountain pygmy possum.
    • Porcupine Rocks guided walking tour These school holidays, bring the kids on this 5.7km, family-friendly guided walk to Porcupine Rocks in the Perisher area of Kosciuszko National Park. Enjoy the alpine wildflowers that bloom in summer.
    • Snowy Mountains 5-day walking tour Escape to the Snowy Mountains and explore Kosciuszko National Park with Park Trek. This 5-day guided walking holiday visits highlights like Blue Lake, Thredbo Valley and Mount Kosciuszko.
    • Snowy Mountains Backcountry winter sports tours Discover the pristine winter beauty of Kosciuszko National Park by ski, snowboard or snowshoe with the expert guides of Snowy Mountains Backcountry.
    • Snowy Mountains Main Range guided hiking tours Explore the hidden gems of the Snowy Mountains on a hiking tour with Wilderness Sports. Your friendly guides will take you to places of spectacular beauty along Main Range in Kosciuszko National Park.
    • Water bug detectives: Stocky galaxias creek tour Join this family-friendly guided tour to catch water bugs, the smallest creatures in our alpine rivers and streams. Find out about their relationship with the rare stocky galaxias fish in Kosciuszko National Park.
    Show more

    Plants and animals protected in this park

    Animals

    • Bare-nosed wombat. Photo: Keith Gillett

      Bare-nosed wombat (Vombatus ursinus)

      A large, squat marsupial, the Australian bare-nosed wombat is a burrowing mammal found in coastal forests and mountain ranges across NSW and Victoria. The only other remaining species of wombat in NSW, the endangered southern hairy-nosed wombat, was considered extinct until relatively recently.

    • Emu, Paroo Darling National Park. Photo: John Spencer

      Emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae)

      The largest of Australian birds, the emu stands up to 2m high and is the second largest bird in the world, after the ostrich. Emus live in pairs or family groups. The male emu incubates and rears the young, which will stay with the adult emus for up to 2 years.

    • A juvenile platypus saved by National Parks and Wildlife staff. Photo: M Bannerman/OEH

      Platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus)

      One of the most fascinating and unusual Australian animals, the duck-billed platypus, along with the echidna, are the only known monotremes, or egg-laying mammals, in existence. The platypus is generally found in permanent river systems and lakes in southern and eastern NSW and east and west of the Great Dividing Range.

    • Brush tail possum. Photo: Ken Stepnell

      Common brushtail possum (Trichosurus vulpecula)

      One of the most widespread of Australian tree-dwelling marsupials, the common brushtail possum is found across most of NSW in woodlands, rainforests and urban areas. With strong claws, a prehensile tail and opposable digits, these native Australian animals are well-adapted for life amongst the trees.

    • Eastern common ringtail possum. Photo: Ken Stepnell

      Common ringtail possum (Pseudocheirus peregrinus)

      Commonly found in forests, woodlands and leafy gardens across eastern NSW, the Australian ringtail possum is a tree-dwelling marsupial. With a powerful tail perfectly adapted to grasp objects, it forages in trees for eucalypt leaves, flowers and fruit.

    • Echidna. Photo: Ken Stepnell

      Short-beaked echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus)

      One of only 2 egg-laying mammals in the world, the short-beaked echidna is one of the most widespread of Australian native animals. Covered in spines, or quills, they’re equipped with a keen sense of smell and a tube-like snout which they use to break apart termite mounds in search of ants.

    • Wedge-tailed eagle. Photo: Kelly Nowak

      Wedge-tailed eagle (Aquila audax)

      With a wingspan of up to 2.5m, the wedge-tailed eagle is Australia’s largest bird of prey. These Australian animals are found in woodlands across NSW, and have the ability to soar to heights of over 2km. If you’re bird watching, look out for the distinctive diamond-shaped tail of the eagle.

    • An adult Guthega skink walks along a granite rock, with alpine grass in the background. Photo credit: Mel Schroder © DPE

      Guthega skink (Liopholis guthega)

      The endangered Guthega skink is the highest recorded skink in Australia. It lives only in alpine Kosciuszko National Park, and the Victorian Alps, above 1600m.

    Plants

    • Billy Button flowers at Peery Lake picnic area. Photo: Dinitee Haskard OEH

      Billy buttons (Craspedia spp. )

      Billy buttons are attractive Australian native plants that are widespread throughout eastern NSW in dry forest, grassland and alpine regions such as Kosciuszko National Park. The golden-yellow globe-shaped flowers are also known as woollyheads. Related to the daisy, billy buttons are an erect herb growing to a height of 50cm.

    Environments in this area

    School excursions (11)