Gerringong Falls Guide: How to Find This Hidden NSW Waterfall
Gerringong Falls: The Ultimate Hidden Gem of Budderoo National Park
If you've seen photos of a massive, 180-metre waterfall dropping into a lush rainforest amphitheatre, chances are you're looking at Gerringong Falls. Located in the upper reaches of Budderoo National Park, this spot is a rite of passage for wild swimmers and hikers in New South Wales.
Unlike nearby Carrington Falls, Gerringong is not a "drive-up" lookout. It requires a long mountain bike ride or hike, followed by a steep, unmarked scramble to reach the base. But for those who make the effort, the reward is one of the most dramatic swimming holes in Australia. For more Budderoo waterfalls, explore Nellies Glen or discover Macquarie Pass Cascades in the nearby Illawarra.
Quick Stats
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Distance: 18km – 20km return (depending on if you go to the top or the base)
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Time: 5–7 hours hiking (or 3 hours if you bring a mountain bike)
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Grade: Hard (The trail to the top is flat, but the track to the base is a steep scramble)
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Best For: Adventure seekers, photographers, and summer wild swimming.
How to Get to the Gerringong Falls Trailhead
The journey begins at the end of Budderoo Track.
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Parking: Drive to the end of Budderoo Road (near Robertson). There is a small parking area at the gate.
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The Fire Trail: You will follow the Budderoo Track for about 8km. This section is flat and easy, which is why we highly recommend mountain biking this part to save your legs for the climb.
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The Turnoff: Look for a faint walking track on your right that leads toward the escarpment edge.
Reaching the Base: The "Secret" Scramble
While the view from the top is spectacular, the real magic is at the bottom.
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The Descent: To reach the Gerringong Falls swimming hole, you must find the "slot" in the cliff line. It is a steep, often muddy scramble that requires using your hands for balance.
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The Rainforest: Once you reach the valley floor, the landscape transforms into a prehistoric temperate rainforest. Follow the creek upstream until the massive waterfall comes into view.
Swimming at Gerringong Falls
The pool at the base is massive and incredibly deep. Because the falls are so high, the water often turns into a fine mist before it hits the bottom, creating a constant "rain" effect in the amphitheatre.
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Water Temp: Be warned—this water is icy year-round! It's the perfect "refreshment" after the long hike in.
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Photography Tip: The best light for the falls is usually mid-morning. By mid-afternoon, the tall canyon walls cast the pool into deep shadow.
Safety & Navigation Tips
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No Reception: You will lose phone signal once you drop below the cliff line. Download offline maps (like AllTrails or Google Maps) before you leave home.
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Leeches: This is prime leech territory, especially after rain. Wear long socks and bring some salt or spray.
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Check the Wind: On very windy days, the waterfall can actually be blown upwards before it reaches the pool! Discover more NSW swimming spots in our complete guide.
