Waterfalls of the Otways
A string of beautiful cascades hidden in cool-temperate rainforest — Erskine Falls behind Lorne, plus Hopetoun, Triplet and Beauchamp, fullest after winter rain.
Waterfalls of the Otways
Just inland from the coast, the Otways hide a string of beautiful waterfalls in cool-temperate rainforest — ferny, mossy and green. Erskine Falls behind Lorne is the most famous, but Hopetoun, Triplet and Beauchamp Falls reward the drive inland, especially after winter rain. Here are the pick of the falls and how to reach them.
Falls to Chase
Erskine Falls
The coast’s most famous falls — a stepped walk to a tall, fern-framed cascade.
Hopetoun & Triplet Falls
Two beauties in the deep Otways, on well-formed rainforest tracks.
Beauchamp Falls
A quieter, lovely cascade reached on a steeper forest walk.
Melba Gully Glow-Worms
“The Jewel of the Otways” — glow-worms light the gully at night.
Waterfall Tips
- Go in winter or spring, after rain, for the fullest falls
- Wear sturdy shoes — tracks have steps and can be slippery
- Erskine Falls is the easiest to reach; the Beech Forest falls need more driving
- Combine several on a loop inland from Apollo Bay or Lorne
- Stay for dusk to catch glow-worms in Melba Gully — see the Otways
Otway Waterfalls — FAQ
What are the best waterfalls in the Otways?
Erskine Falls (behind Lorne), Hopetoun Falls, Triplet Falls and Beauchamp Falls are the pick, set in the cool-temperate rainforest of the Great Otway National Park. They’re fullest in winter and spring.
Where is Erskine Falls?
In the hills behind Lorne — a short drive then a stepped walk to a viewing platform and the base. It’s one of the most accessible and popular falls on the coast.
When are the waterfalls best?
Winter and spring, after rain, when the falls run full and the rainforest is greenest. Tracks can be slippery — wear sturdy shoes.
Are the waterfall walks hard?
Most are short but involve steps and can be steep and slippery. Erskine, Hopetoun and Triplet have well-formed tracks; allow time and take care in the wet.
Can you see glow-worms nearby?
Yes — damp Otway gullies such as Melba Gully glow with glow-worms after dark. Visit quietly and avoid shining torches on them. See the Otways.
The Great Ocean Road, Planned Around You
The Twelve Apostles, the surf coast, the Otway rainforest and the wildlife — with the driving and bookings handled by the family that’s toured Australia since 1974.
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