We discovered an incredibly beautiful waterfall hike near Melbourne that’s suitable for all ages Steavenson Falls Located in Yarra Ranges National Park in northeastern Melbourne, not far from the town of Marysville. As a backdrop for photos, it almost doesn’t look real—it’s absolutely stunning. One of the best things about this walk is that there are different route options, so you can choose based on your fitness level. If you don’t want to walk 🚶 or are visiting with kids, you can simply walk straight to the waterfall. The round trip, including photo stops, takes about 30–40 minutes. For those who enjoy hiking, there’s a longer one-hour trail with a bit more difficulty, but the scenery is excellent—perfect for fresh air 🍀 and a good workout 💦. Just search the location directly: Steavenson Falls on Google Maps.
Steavenson Falls
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Steavenson Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Steavenson Falls famous?
Steavenson Falls is one of Victoria's tallest and most accessible waterfalls at 84 meters, making it a popular attraction in the Yarra Ranges. The falls were a major tourist draw from the late 1800s and the area was rebuilt after the devastating 2009 Black Saturday bushfires, becoming a symbol of community resilience for Marysville.
Can you swim at Steavenson Falls?
No — swimming is not permitted at Steavenson Falls due to safety concerns and slippery rocks. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Steavenson Falls?
Dogs are not permitted on the Steavenson Falls walking track. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Steavenson Falls free? Do you need a permit?
Free — no entry fee or permit required to visit Steavenson Falls. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Steavenson Falls?
Free parking is available at the Steavenson Falls car park, located at the end of Falls Road in Marysville. The car park is small with limited spaces, especially busy on weekends and holidays. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Steavenson Falls?
About 1.5 km return from the car park, or a shorter 20-minute walk (approximately 500m return) to the main viewing platform. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Steavenson Falls hike difficulty
Moderate — the trail involves steep sections, stairs (approximately 200+ steps), and can be slippery when wet. Suitable walking shoes are essential. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Steavenson Falls?
Winter and spring (June–November) for the highest water flow after rainfall, making the falls most spectacular. The area can be beautiful year-round but summer may see reduced flow. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Steavenson Falls
From the car park, follow the clearly marked walking track downhill through tall mountain ash forest. The track features stairs and boardwalks as you descend to viewing platforms at different levels. The main platform offers close-up views of the falls. An upper track provides additional viewpoints. Return via the same route, noting the uphill climb back to the car park can be strenuous.
Steavenson Falls official website
Attractions near Steavenson Falls
- •Marysville town center — charming mountain village with cafes, shops, and visitor center (2 km)
- •Keppel Lookout — panoramic views over Lake Mountain and the Yarra Valley (5 km)
- •Cumberland Scenic Reserve — tall mountain ash forests and walking trails (8 km)
- •Lake Mountain Alpine Resort — cross-country skiing in winter, walking trails in summer (20 km)
- •Bruno's Art & Sculpture Garden — outdoor sculpture park in rainforest setting (3 km)
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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