For the past few days, I had this strong feeling that I wanted to go to Dorrigo to see the rain. Maybe it was because it had been rainy and cloudy at home lately, or maybe because I had visited the Dorrigo Rainforest Centre before but didn’t have time to walk the trails, and felt like I had left something unfinished. But one after another, strange little things started happening. And because the summer heat was over 40°C, I just wanted to escape into any shop and ended up chatting with the owner, who recommended Dangar Falls. At first, hearing the sound of the waterfall actually made my legs feel a bit weak. But as I followed the small path, stepped onto the wooden boardwalk, and eventually reached the waterfall itself, I could feel the mist rising from the falls wrapping around me.
Dangar Falls
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Dangar Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Dangar Falls famous?
Dangar Falls is a popular local swimming destination near Dorrigo, known for its accessible 30-meter cascade and large plunge pool suitable for swimming. It serves as a convenient stop for visitors exploring the nearby World Heritage-listed Dorrigo National Park rainforests.
Can you swim at Dangar Falls?
Yes, swimming is popular at the base pool of Dangar Falls. The pool is deep and suitable for swimming. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Dangar Falls?
Dogs are generally not permitted in Dorrigo National Park reserves. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Dangar Falls free? Do you need a permit?
Free entry to Dangar Falls picnic area and waterfall. No permit required. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Dangar Falls?
Free parking is available at the Dangar Falls picnic area, with a short walk from the car park to the falls lookout and swimming area. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Dangar Falls?
Approximately 100-200 meters / 0.1-0.2 km from the car park to the falls viewing area and swimming hole. Very short walk. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Dangar Falls hike difficulty
Easy – short, mostly paved or well-maintained path with some steps down to the base swimming area. Suitable for most visitors. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Dangar Falls?
Year-round, but best after good rainfall (typically April–September) for stronger flow. Summer offers warm swimming conditions. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Dangar Falls
From the car park, follow the short paved path and steps down to the lookout platform and swimming area at the base of the falls. The path is well-maintained with handrails. Access to the swimming hole requires descending steps.
Dangar Falls official website
Attractions near Dangar Falls
- •Dorrigo National Park – World Heritage rainforest with Skywalk and multiple waterfalls
- •Crystal Shower Falls – 7km away, walk-behind waterfall with 200m boardwalk loop
- •Never Never picnic area – 14km away, popular swimming spot on Rosewood Creek
- •Ebor Falls – approximately 45km south, dramatic twin waterfall with two viewing platforms
- •Dorrigo Rainforest Centre – visitor information, café, and Skywalk canopy experience
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
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