Killen Falls Guide: The Cave Waterfall near Byron Bay
If you're exploring the Byron Bay hinterland, you've probably heard whispers of a waterfall you can walk behind. Killen Falls, in Tintenbar near Ballina, is a rare remnant of the Big Scrub rainforest that once covered the Northern Rivers.
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What makes Killen Falls a must-see isn't just the drop of Emigrant Creek; it's the huge overhanging cave behind the basalt falls that wraps around the pool. It feels worlds away from the busy surf breaks of Ballina and Lennox Head. It's one of the swims in Swim New South Wales. For more NSW waterfalls, try Dangar Falls on the Waterfall Way or Crystal Shower Falls in Dorrigo.
Killen Falls Quick Stats
- Distance: 1km return
- Time: 45 minutes, plus time behind the falls
- Grade: Easy to medium (the track to the top lookout is flat; the track to the base is a rocky scramble)
- Best for: Walking behind a waterfall, cave photography and rainforest vibes
How to Get to Killen Falls (the Parking Reality)
Killen Falls is at the end of Killen Falls Drive, Tintenbar, about 20 minutes' drive from Byron Bay or 15 minutes from Ballina.
- Limited parking: There's only a very small car park at the trailhead. Only park where signs allow, and never on the grass verge or across driveways on this quiet residential road.
- The strategy: To get a spot, arrive before 9am or visit on a weekday. If the car park is full, don't park illegally; come back later in the afternoon.
- The trail: There are two options: a short, flat walk to the top lookout and a rougher walk down to the base of the falls.
Walking Behind Killen Falls
The real magic happens at the base. The track down is often muddy and involves stepping over large tree roots, but it's worth every step.
- The cave: The massive overhang lets you walk right behind the curtain of water without getting wet (unless you want to!). The cave floor is rocky and slippery, so watch your step.
- The pool: The water is usually a tea-tree stained amber colour, typical of the Northern Rivers. Ballina Shire Council doesn't recommend swimming here because water quality varies and can exceed safe swimming levels, especially after rain. If you do get in, never jump or dive: council warns that jumping here is extremely dangerous.
- The wildlife: Look for turtles sunning themselves on the rocks and the bright green frogs that call the damp cave walls home.
Tips for a Responsible Visit
- Preserve the Big Scrub: Killen Falls is an environmentally sensitive reserve. Stay on the marked track to avoid eroding the banks or crushing native seedlings.
- Water quality: The creek runs through farmland upstream, so stay out of the water for at least 48 hours after heavy rain.
- Leave no trace: Facilities are minimal, so take your rubbish home and keep the grotto pristine for the next visitor.
Discover more NSW swimming spots in Swim New South Wales.
Killen Falls FAQs
Can you walk behind Killen Falls?
Yes. A large overhang behind the falls lets you walk behind the curtain of water. The floor is rocky and slippery, so take care.
Can you swim at Killen Falls?
People do, but Ballina Shire Council doesn't recommend it because water quality is variable and often poor after rain. Never jump or dive here.
Where do you park for Killen Falls?
In the small car park at the end of Killen Falls Drive, Tintenbar. It fills early, so arrive before 9am or come on a weekday, and only park where signs allow.
How long is the walk to Killen Falls?
About 1km return including the walk down to the base, taking around 45 minutes. The lookout track is short and flat.
