Upper Gledhill Falls is a hidden gem tucked away in the heart of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, just a short drive from Sydney. Surrounded by lush greenery and featuring a stunning waterfall cascading into a crystal-clear pool, this tranquil spot offers a perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
The journey to Upper Gledhill Falls is as captivating as the destination itself. A gentle trail winds through a canopy of gum trees, leading to the soothing sounds of cascading water. At the falls, the clear pool invites you to take a refreshing dip, while the surrounding rocks provide a peaceful perch to soak in the beauty of the scene.
Statistics:
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Area: Ku-Ring-Gai National Park
Attractions: Waterfall, Swimming Hole
Approximate Time: 5 Minute Return
Approximate Distance: 50 metres
Popularity: Medium
Accessible by Public Transport: Not Easily
Time from Sydney’s CBD: 37 km (40 mins)
Parking Info:
There is no marked trail and therefore no specific parking but there is a small clearing right next to the trail that can fit 3 – 5 cars depending on size and how they are parked. If you drive along McCarrs Creek Rd about 5 – 10 minutes after you pass the Ku-Ring-Gai National Park sign you’ll find a clearing right after a bend in the road. When pulling out of the clearing be careful as there is a blind corner beside you.
Getting There:
The walk down to Upper Gledhill falls is very short and should only take 2 – 3 minutes maximum. Keep in mind there is no marked trail but the years of people walking the track to the falls have marked an unofficial trail that is easy to follow. The trail starts right where you parked your car. Then after only a few meters forks off into 2 paths.
Following the left path will take you to the top of the falls where you can look out on to waterfall and the swimming hole. behind the falls there is also a small bridge covered in graffiti.which you would have driven over if you came from the Sydney direction.
Turning right will take you to the bottom of the water fall and the swimming hole. The trial after 30 seconds will take a steep descent which will include a short rocky scramble which is pretty easily managed by almost everyone.
After that you will find your self and a small river if you turn left and climb over the rocks after another 30 seconds you will reach the falls.
Swimming Info:
As a swimming spot Upper Gledhills Falls is an absolute dream with a natural shower, multiple spots deep enough to jump in, almost no aquatic life to surprise you and very little submerged rocks. The water down below is constantly fed by the waterfall meaning the water is almost always clean and refreshing.
Best Time To Visit:
In terms of weather summer and in general hot weather would be the best time of year to visit. Uppergled Hill Falls can get a little busy at times but I have only every seen 10 people maximum there at once and there is a good chance you could have the spot to yourself.
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