Waterfall Way Scenic Drive

The 191 kilometre Waterfall Way scenic drive begins in Coffs Harbour and commences in Armidale. This spectacular drive has been voted the third most scenic in Australia and encompasses several national parks, waterfalls and quirky townships. Dorrigo National Park is on the northern side of the Waterfall Way, Bellinger River National Park lies to the south.

Leaving Pacific Highway at Urunga, the drive winds its way along the lush emerald plains of the Bellinger Valley. It follows the route of the Bellinger River, reaching the gorgeous township of Bellingen. Taking time out to explore the town and the colony of 40 000 flying foxes is a pleasant interlude.

After leaving Bellingen the road winds gradually upwards, catching glimpses of sprawling expanses of forest and mountain ranges. Situated at the base of the Dorrigo National Park, the small village of Thora, renowned for its trout fishing and streams is next.

The Great Dividing Range and waterfall territory follows after Thora. Newell and Sherrard Falls are accessible from here, giant Eucalyptus trees, colossal rainforest growth, ancient Cycads and tall tree ferns grace this sweep of road before reaching the summit of the mountain. Prior to the township of Dorrigo is Dome Road which gives access to Dorrigo National Park. The Skywalk here is a timber boardwalk built above the rainforest canopy. Spectacular views across the Dorrigo National Park all the way to the coastline are well worth the detour.

Continuing onwards the road cuts across New England World Heritage National Park reaching the village of Ebor and the Great Escarpment. Rugged rocky cliffs, steep valleys, spectacular waterfalls and World Heritage rainforests stretch for over 100 kilometres.

Slightly past Ebor is Point Lookout, rising 1564 metres above sea level. The lookout provides breathtaking views of the near vertical escarpment and a magnificent panorama to the north, east and south from two viewing platforms. Below is a vast wilderness of deep valleys, clothed in forest, against a background of the Pacific Ocean.

Cathedral Rock National park and Wollomombi follow Point Lookout. The Wollomombi Falls are one of the highest in Australia. The spectacular single fall plunges into the Wollomombi Gorge, sometimes shrouded in mist, they are most spectacular after heavy rain.

The second to last town on the itinerary is the old gold mining town of Hillgrove and the Baker Creek Falls. Hillgrove is the base for Oxley Wild Rivers National Park and the Baker Creek Falls.

The town of Armidale is the terminus for the Waterfall Way. From here the road intersects with the New England Highway.