Macquarie Pass Cascades Guide: Best Wild Swimming in the Illawarra
Deep within the mossy embrace of Macquarie Pass National Park, a series of waterfalls and emerald pools await. The Macquarie Pass Cascades are a local favourite, offering a lush rainforest escape just a short drive from Wollongong and Shellharbour.
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Known for its towering cedars and giant stinging trees, this track follows the Macquarie Rivulet. Whether you want a refreshing summer dip or a moody rainforest walk, the Cascades deliver a high-reward experience for very little effort. They're one of the swims in Swim New South Wales. For more Illawarra waterfalls, try Gerringong Falls in nearby Budderoo National Park or Nellies Glen.
Macquarie Pass Cascades Quick Stats
- Distance: 2km return
- Time: About 1 hour (NPWS says 45 minutes to 1 hour 15), plus time for swimming
- Grade: Easy to medium (mostly flat, but muddy and rocky near the water)
- Facilities: No toilets, bins or change rooms
- Best for: Wild swimming and photography
How to Get to Macquarie Pass Cascades
The trailhead is at the bottom of Macquarie Pass on the Illawarra Highway, near Albion Park.
- The car park: Look for the small NPWS car park on the southern side of the Illawarra Highway, right at the base of the climb. It's easy to miss, so slow down as you approach.
- The trailhead: The track starts from the car park. Follow the signs for the Cascades Walk.
- The walk: You'll follow the rivulet upstream. The track is well defined but becomes a bit of a scramble over tree roots and rocks as you get closer to the main falls.
Swimming at Macquarie Pass Cascades
The Macquarie Rivulet has carved out several lovely places to swim:
- The main Cascades: At the end of the track, a waterfall drops into a fern-fringed basin. It's around waist deep, perfect for a cool soak.
- Jump Rock: Along the way you'll pass a smaller pool with a prominent rock ledge known locally as "Jump Rock". Don't jump: the pools are shallow in places and submerged logs shift after heavy rain. Wade in instead.
- The grotto: Keep an eye out for smaller, quieter side pools where the water is crystal clear and the moss is at its most vibrant.
Tips for Visiting Macquarie Pass Cascades
- Leech alert: This is rainforest! If it's rained recently, leeches (and ticks) will be active. Wear long socks, use repellent and check your ankles.
- Get there early: On hot summer weekends the small car park fills by 10am. Arrive early or visit on a weekday.
- Weather: Avoid the tall forest in strong winds, and don't swim when the rivulet is running high after rain.
- Etiquette: Take all rubbish with you and keep voices low for other visitors and wildlife.
- Combine with a pie: No trip to Macquarie Pass is complete without a stop at the famous Robertson Pie Shop at the top of the pass for a post-swim treat.
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Macquarie Pass Cascades FAQs
How long is the Cascades walk at Macquarie Pass?
It's 2km return and takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes, plus time for a swim.
Can you swim at Macquarie Pass Cascades?
Yes. The basin under the main falls is around waist deep, with smaller side pools along the rivulet. Don't jump or dive.
Where do you park for Macquarie Pass Cascades?
At the small NPWS car park on the southern side of the Illawarra Highway at the bottom of the pass, near Albion Park. It fills early on summer weekends.
Are there toilets at Macquarie Pass Cascades?
No, there are no toilets, bins or change rooms, so take your rubbish home.
