Waterfall Way
Australia
Waterfall Way is one of northern New South Wales’ most rewarding short road trips, climbing from the coastal plains at Coffs Harbour into the cool New England tablelands near Armidale. The drive strings together rainforest, escarpment lookouts, and a run of dramatic waterfalls in national parks along a well-sealed, easy route.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Coffs Harbour
Beachside start on the NSW north coast with a relaxed coastal feel. Fill up before climbing inland.
- Bellingen
A pretty river town with leafy streets and a creative local scene. It is a good coffee and lunch stop.
- Dorrigo Rainforest Centre
Visitor hub for the World Heritage rainforest, with easy access to walks and viewpoints. The air turns cool and green here.
- Dorrigo National Park
Mist forest, giant trees, and boardwalks make this one of the route's highlights. Short walks lead deep into the rainforest.
- Dangar Falls
A dramatic waterfall just outside Dorrigo with a lookout and swimming hole below. It is a classic Waterfall Way photo stop.
- Ebor Falls
Two-tier falls drop through rugged gorge country near the tablelands. The lookout is close to the road and easy to reach.
- Armidale
Cool-climate university city with historic buildings and a strong food scene. It is the inland finish of the drive.
- Armidale
End in the high tablelands at a city known for parks, heritage, and crisp air. The road trip finishes far from the coast.
Where to Eat
- Hyde BellingenCafe
A popular all-day café in the center of Bellingen with good coffee and easy lunches. A strong stop for breakfast or a mid-drive break.
- Bellingen Brewery & Co.Pub food
Casual meals and local drinks in a relaxed riverside-town setting. Good for a hearty lunch after the coast road.
- Fivellen CoffeeCafe
Small-town café known for quality coffee and simple brunches. Handy if you want a quick stop in Dorrigo.
- The Royal Hotel ArmidalePub
Classic regional pub meals in Armidale's center. A reliable end-of-day dinner option after the drive.
Things to Do
- Mylestom and the Bellinger RiverScenic river stop
Detour to the lower Bellinger for calm water and a slow local pace. It is an easy place to stretch your legs and enjoy the river.
- Dorrigo National Park SkywalkRainforest walk
Walk the Skywalk for broad views over the gorge and canopy. It is one of the simplest ways to experience the rainforest.
- Crystal Shower FallsWaterfall walk
A popular rainforest trail that reaches a waterfall you can walk behind. Expect lush ferns, cool shade, and stream crossings.
- Dangar Falls LookoutWaterfall lookout
Take in the falls from the upper lookout or walk down for a closer view. It is one of the route's most memorable cascades.
- Ebor Falls LookoutWaterfall lookout
Stop for views over the two drops of Ebor Falls and the surrounding gorge. The short walk makes it an easy scenic pause.