**Hopetoun Falls** I've always had a soft spot for rainforests. I hope to explore rainforests of all sizes across Australia one day. I love the soothing sound of water cascading down waterfalls—it feels incredibly healing. I also enjoy wandering through the wet, uneven rainforest trails, which remind me of the treasure-hunting adventures I played as a kid. You never know what breathtaking view awaits just beyond the next bend or behind a curtain of leaves. That sense of excitement with every step—isn't that exactly what travel is supposed to bring us? Looking for a waterfall hike along the Great Ocean Road? This one is a must. From the car park, it's only about a 10-minute walk. Happily running down the many steps and passing through what feels like an enchanted forest, you'll soon be rewarded with the beautiful sight of the falls. If you're driving the Great Ocean Road, make sure to stop and visit. 📍Hopetoun Falls
Hopetoun Falls
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Hopetoun Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Hopetoun Falls famous?
Hopetoun Falls is one of the most photographed waterfalls in Victoria, celebrated for its dramatic 30-metre plunge into a lush, ferny amphitheatre of cool temperate rainforest in the Great Otway National Park. The falls are a classic example of the region's spectacular natural beauty and are a highlight of the Otways waterfall circuit.
Can you swim at Hopetoun Falls?
No — swimming is not permitted at Hopetoun Falls due to safety hazards and cold water. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Hopetoun Falls?
Dogs are not permitted on the Hopetoun Falls walking track or in the Otway National Park. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Hopetoun Falls free? Do you need a permit?
Free — no entry fee or permit required to visit Hopetoun Falls. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Hopetoun Falls?
Free parking is available at the Hopetoun Falls car park on Hopetoun Falls Road. The car park has limited capacity and can fill on peak days. The walk to the falls begins directly from the car park. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Hopetoun Falls?
About 1 km (0.6 mi) return from the car park, with viewing platforms at different levels along the way. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Hopetoun Falls hike difficulty
Moderate — the trail includes steep sections, stairs, and can be slippery when wet; the descent requires good mobility. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Hopetoun Falls?
April to November for strongest flow after winter and spring rains; the falls can reduce to a trickle in summer. Autumn (April–May) offers both good flow and pleasant weather. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Hopetoun Falls
From the car park, follow the well-marked walking track that descends through rainforest. The trail includes multiple viewing platforms at different heights — the upper platform provides a distant view while lower platforms bring you closer to the base. The track involves steep stairs and can be muddy and slippery after rain, so wear appropriate footwear.
Hopetoun Falls official website
Attractions near Hopetoun Falls
- •Triplet Falls — stunning three-tiered waterfall with 1.5 km loop walk, 10 km away
- •Beauchamp Falls — 25-metre waterfall in fern gully, accessible via 800 m walk, 15 km away
- •Otway Fly Treetop Adventures — elevated walkway through rainforest canopy, 30 km away
- •Great Ocean Road — iconic coastal drive with beaches and rock formations, 35 km south
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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More to explore nearby
Erskine Falls
Lorne, Victoria
Lush Otway Ranges waterfall on the Great Ocean Road.
Mackenzie Falls
Grampians, Victoria
Victoria's largest year-round waterfall.
Triplet Falls
Beech Forest, Victoria
Three-tiered Otway rainforest walk.
Steavenson Falls
Marysville, Victoria
One of Victoria's tallest waterfalls.