Dangar Falls
North Coast NSW
Dorrigo
A beautiful wide waterfall with multiple viewing platforms and a great natural pool for swimming makes this a must-do when visiting Dorrigo.
This heavily trafficked walk starts from the car park on Coramba Road in Dorrigo, outside the national park boundary approximately 2 kms from the township.
There is an upper viewing platform about 50 metres from the car park which is wheelchair accessible and offers fantastic views down to the face of the waterfall.
Watch as the Bielsdown River plummets 30 metres off the expansive cliff face into the large natural pool below.
Those wanting an even closer view, as well as a swim at the base of the falls, can walk down the paved path, followed by steps and a mix of wooden and metal boardwalks through lovely forest.
Along the way, stop and walk along the Dangar Labyrinth, an ancient Mediterranean unicursal pattern of passage dating back to before 2,500 BC.
Also, don’t forget to peak through the trees along the boardwalk for lovely views to the river downstream of the falls.
At the base, there is another viewing platform in front of the falls, which highlight the width of the falls and the curved cliff line.
There are steps onto the rocks to the large, deep swimming hole at the base of the falls, which is perfect for swimming – albeit cold year-round.
It is gradually downhill most of the way to the base, so there is some elevation on the return leg.
At the top of the falls, near the upper viewing platform, there are toilets, picnic tables set among the trees and often a coffee cart in the car park.
It is also possible to take a short walk upstream of the top of the falls to see the river cascading over rocks down to the falls.
The walk is a must-do when travelling the 185 km Waterfall Way scenic drive from Coffs Harbour to Armidale.
Note: be careful not to confuse this with another Dangar Falls, located on the outskirts of Oxley Wild Rivers National Park 2 hours west.
Track: The walk involves a constructed upper viewing platform, followed by a paved track to wooden steps and a mix of wooden and metal boardwalks. The track is well-signed and easy to follow.
Difficulty: The track is suitable for all fitness levels, with the upper viewing platform being wheelchair accessible, but not the base of the falls.
Direction: This is an out-and-back track that returns the way you came.
getting there
The trail starts from the car park off Coramba Road in Dorrigo (outside the national park boundary and approximately 2 kms from the township), approximately 5 hours drive south of Brisbane, 1.5 hours drive east of Armidale, 1 hour drive west of Coffs Harbour or 6 hours drive north of Sydney.
Parking is ample, however can become busy during peak times.
best time to go
The walk can be completed year-round.
Like any walk involving waterfalls, it is best done after recent rain. However, if completing after recent rain, be sure to check conditions from the upper viewing platform and do not proceed to the base during flooding or track closures.
Remember, whenever venturing into the outdoors, practice the Leave No Trace principles and be considerate of others. This means: dispose of your waste properly, don't remove things or move things from their natural position and respect all wildlife. Also be sure to plan ahead and adequately prepare for any adventure.
I respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which all activities listed on this website are found, as well as Elders past, present and emerging. I strive to not promote sites where requests have been made for people not to explore due to the cultural significance of the site to Indigenous peoples, or note how to respectfully visit a site. If I have a promoted a site with cultural significance, please send me a message and let me know.