The walk is only about 20 minutes, but the scenery along the way is so beautiful that it feels like stepping into a scene from *The Lord of the Rings*. The rainforest is breathtaking, with moss-covered rocks and twisted trees creating an almost dreamlike landscape. Along the track, you'll also see plenty of kōtukutuku trees (New Zealand tree fuchsia). At the end of the trail is the refreshing McLean Falls. It is the tallest waterfall in the Catlins region, made up of several tiers. After heavy rain, the flow becomes especially powerful, plunging more than 20 metres into the gorge below. It's one of the must-see waterfalls in the Catlins and definitely not to be missed. The first two waterfalls are easily reached on foot. After that, you can continue up the steps, and finally scramble over some rocks to reach the top. Most of the track is gravel, but the last 5–10 minutes consist of a narrow, uneven trail with rocks, tree roots, and steps. It isn't particularly difficult for the average person.
McLean Falls
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to McLean Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is McLean Falls famous?
McLean Falls is one of the Catlins' most accessible and impressive waterfalls, beloved for its 22-metre single-drop cascade into a beautiful forest-fringed pool surrounded by ancient native podocarp forest. The falls and surrounding area showcase the lush temperate rainforest ecosystem characteristic of the Catlins region.
Can you swim at McLean Falls?
No — the pool is not safe for swimming due to cold water, depth, and strong currents. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at McLean Falls?
Dogs are permitted on-leash on Department of Conservation tracks in this area. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is McLean Falls free? Do you need a permit?
Free — no entry fee or permit required for McLean Falls Walk. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at McLean Falls?
Free parking is available at the McLean Falls car park on the Rewcastle Road. The car park is small with limited spaces. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to McLean Falls?
About 1.2 km / 0.75 mi return (600m each way) from the car park through native podocarp forest. Please verify on the official website before you go.
McLean Falls hike difficulty
Easy — well-formed track through forest with minimal elevation gain and some steps near the falls. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit McLean Falls?
Late spring to autumn (November–April) offers the best weather for walking, though the falls flow year-round with higher volume in winter and spring. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for McLean Falls
From the car park, follow the well-marked gravel track through podocarp and beech forest. The path descends gently through lush vegetation with rata and kamahi trees. Near the end, the track includes steps and a boardwalk leading to a viewing platform at the base of the 22-metre waterfall. The return journey is a gradual uphill walk back to the car park.
Attractions near McLean Falls
- •Purakaunui Falls — a stunning 20m multi-tiered waterfall, one of the most photographed in NZ
- •Cathedral Caves — dramatic sea caves accessible at low tide (permits required)
- •Nugget Point Lighthouse — iconic coastal viewpoint with seal colony and dramatic rock formations
- •Curio Bay — fossil forest and yellow-eyed penguin viewing area on the coast
- •Owaka — nearest town with services, about 15 minutes' drive from McLean Falls
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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