Red Cedar Falls – Dorrigo’s Hidden Rainforest Waterfall

Red Cedar Falls – A Waterfall Worth the Journey

Deep within the ancient rainforest of Dorrigo National Park, Red Cedar Falls stands as one of New South Wales' most breathtaking natural wonders. At over 60 metres tall, it's the park's highest waterfall — a thunderous cascade plunging into a tranquil rock pool surrounded by ferns and towering red cedars. For more Dorrigo waterfalls, explore Dangar Falls or discover Crystal Shower Falls nearby.

Even though the walking track to Red Cedar Falls is currently closed, its reputation continues to draw visitors to Dorrigo. The closure is temporary while the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service repairs flood damage and stabilises sections of the trail affected by recent heavy rainfall.

You'll still find Red Cedar Falls featured in Swim New South Wales, our curated guide to the state's most remarkable swimming locations — from rainforest cascades to ocean pools.

A Hidden Gem in Recovery

This part of Dorrigo sits within the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, home to plant species dating back over 100 million years. While access to the base of the falls is restricted, visitors can still enjoy nearby lookouts, picnic areas, and shorter walking tracks that weave through the same ancient landscape.

When the Red Cedar Falls Track reopens, expect a challenging but unforgettable descent through dense rainforest, leading to the base of the waterfall where mist rises like smoke from the rocks.

📌 For the latest track updates, visit the official NSW National Parks website.

Swimming and Safety Notes

When open, swimming beneath Red Cedar Falls is an exhilarating experience — clear, cold mountain water and the roar of falling water all around you. But even experienced swimmers should take care: currents near the base can be strong, and rocks may be slippery.

Until the track reopens, it's best to explore other nearby waterfalls within the park such as Crystal Shower Falls and Tristania Falls, both accessible via maintained walking tracks.

How to Get There (Once Reopened)

• Location: Dorrigo National Park, about an hour inland from Coffs Harbour via Waterfall Way.

• Trailhead: Red Cedar Falls Track, accessed from the Never Never Picnic Area.

• Distance: 6.5 km return.

• Time: Allow 2–3 hours.

• Difficulty: Moderate to hard — steep with uneven terrain.

The drive itself offers glimpses of smaller creeks and waterfalls — a prelude to the main attraction.

What to Know Before You Go

• Current status: Track closed for maintenance and safety upgrades.

• Check updates: NSW National Parks – Dorrigo National Park.

• Weather: Avoid visiting the region during heavy rain as roads can close.

• Facilities: Toilets and picnic tables available at Never Never Picnic Area.

While Red Cedar Falls awaits reopening, discover these equally stunning alternatives:

• Dangar Falls – a twin waterfall near Dorrigo with easy access and a deep swimming pool.

• Killen Falls – a Northern NSW waterfall hiding a cave behind its curtain of water.

• Crystal Shower Falls – walk behind the waterfall on the Waterfall Way. Discover more NSW swimming spots in our complete guide.

Each offers its own blend of adventure and serenity, featured exclusively in Swim New South Wales.

Final Thoughts

The temporary closure of the Red Cedar Falls Track serves as a reminder of how dynamic and fragile these rainforest ecosystems are. When it reopens, this hidden waterfall will once again welcome hikers into one of NSW's most extraordinary natural amphitheatres.

For more breathtaking swimming and waterfall destinations — from Dorrigo's ancient valleys to the coastal pools of Bermagui — grab a copy of Swim New South Wales. It's your guide to exploring the wild, beautiful heart of the state.