What is MacKenzie Falls in the Grampians?
MacKenzie Falls is one of the largest and most popular waterfalls in Victoria, in Grampians National Park. It flows all year, cascading over rock ledges into a deep pool.
The falls are on the MacKenzie River, near the town of Halls Gap. Water drops over a series of sandstone steps into a broad pool surrounded by cliffs and ferns.
A steep track with many steps leads down to the base of the falls, taking about an hour return. An easier, flatter path leads to viewing platforms at the top, including the Broken Falls lookout.
Safety and access
Swimming is not allowed at the base of the falls because of dangerous currents and slippery rocks.
The site has a car park, picnic area and kiosk. A longer walk follows the river to Zumsteins picnic ground, where kangaroos graze.
The falls are especially powerful after winter and spring rain.
Bushfires in 2006 and floods in 2011 damaged the area, and tracks and lookouts were rebuilt. Photographers favour the soft light of early morning, when mist often rises from the pool. On busy weekends and holidays, the car park can fill quickly, so arriving early helps.
Did You Know?
The Grampians are known as Gariwerd to the Djab Wurrung and Jardwadjali peoples.