NSW Uncharted

While both Upper and Lower Gledhill Falls have their charms, there’s something undeniably magical about the lower falls that sets them apart. Where Upper Gledhill Falls often draws more visitors with its easier access, Lower Gledhill Falls rewards those willing to venture further with a sense of exclusivity and pristine beauty.

One of the most striking differences is the ambiance. Upper Gledhill Falls, though beautiful, can feel more like a picnic spot than a wilderness retreat, with its popularity sometimes detracting from the tranquility. In contrast, Lower Gledhill Falls offers a more serene experience. The gentle roar of the falls, combined with the secluded setting, creates the perfect atmosphere for unwinding or even meditating. The surrounding vegetation feels wilder and more untouched, adding to the sense of discovery. For those seeking a place to swim, the pool at Lower Gledhill Falls is deeper and less crowded, making it ideal for a refreshing dip.

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Statistics:

Difficulty: Moderately Hard

Area: Ku-Ring-Gai National Park

Attractions: Waterfall, Jump-Rock Spots, Swimming Hole

Approximate Time: 25 – 35 minute Return

Approximate Distance: 1.3 km Return

Popularity: Low

Accessible by Public Transport: Not Easily

Time from Sydney’s CBD: 38 km 40 mins

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Parking Info:

Parking at lower Gledhill falls is easy enough as there is a small parking lot in an area called Duckholes picnic area.

The Walk to Lower Gledhill Falls:

The start of the trail begins at the carpark where if you descend down the steps and follow the dirt path within the first 30 seconds you will reach a rocky area where many people choose to sunbathe and swim.

From here if you turn left away from the bridge you will spot another dirt walking track. After a few minutes the dirt track will eventually turn into a sand one. This track will keep going for another 7 – 8 minutes. Along this walk you will come across 2 more popular swimming spots one which is almost a small sandy beach and another which rocky area similar to the one at the beginning of the walk.

After another few minutes of walking you now have reached the top of the falls. If you wish to view the water fall from the top then read on if not skip this section. After you pass these the next thing you will come across is the inflow of the waterfall. If you walk to the left of the inflow towards the sign you can feel the height and beautiful of the falls.

If you wish to travel to the bottom of the waterfall continue along the track for another 3 – 5 minutes where you will come across multiple lookouts which have views of the falls. At the end is where the hard part of the track begins. You will come across 2 vertical descents each with a rope to help you down.

Take care as the rock faces can be quite slippery if wet. After you reach the bottom the falls and swimming hole is in sight and all that is left to do is scramble over some rocks to reach it!!

Jump Rocks at Lower Gledhill Falls:

There are 2 spots that are safe jump rock spots located in the middle on either side of the waterfall. Though make sure to double check your landing spot before you jump as there may be some submerged rocks which have moved.