We ended up at this place by accident, which is the best way to describe how we found it. It's a good summer spot for an outdoor swim, hidden in the forest on Sydney's north shore, and not many people seem to know about it. Finding It The falls are near the toll gate on the way to West Head, in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Parking is the tricky part. There's very little of it, only a few spots along the side of the road, and it's easy to drive straight past without noticing. NSW National Parks says that parking on the side of McCarrs Creek Road here is illegal and dangerous. Cars can be fined, and the road has an 80 km/h limit. The nearby Duckholes picnic area, just off West Head Road, is the park's suggested alternative, and there's also a small car park at the bottom of West Head Road, before the entrance kiosks. There are no toilets and no formal track, and mobile reception is limited. The Falls The waterfall itself is small, about 5 metres, but when I got there I thought it looked bigger than I expected. Below it is a natural pool that's very comfortable to swim in, with a small sandy beach at one end. A number of young people were in the water when we visited. Above the falls there's a short series of smaller cascades, and it looks like it would make a good photo taken from the top looking down. NSW National Parks does not recommend swimming here, particularly after rain, since there are no lifeguards and emergency services have difficulty getting in. Climbing and abseiling are prohibited. Trail Notes Location: McCarrs Creek Road, just before the junction with West Head Road, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park Walk: about 5 minutes return Height: about 5 metres Best for: a summer swim Facilities: none
Upper Gledhill Falls
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Upper Gledhill Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Upper Gledhill Falls famous?
Upper Gledhill Falls is one of several waterfalls within Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, which is renowned for its significant Aboriginal rock art sites, bushland scenery, and proximity to Sydney. The park protects important Indigenous cultural heritage and diverse ecosystems.
Can you swim at Upper Gledhill Falls?
Unknown — please check the official website. Swimming policies can vary and conditions change seasonally. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Upper Gledhill Falls?
Dogs are not permitted in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park except for assistance animals. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Upper Gledhill Falls free? Do you need a permit?
NSW National Parks vehicle entry fee applies ($8 per day as of 2024, subject to change). Annual passes available. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Upper Gledhill Falls?
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park has various parking areas throughout the park, typically free at trailheads but park entry fees apply. Specific parking for Upper Gledhill Falls access point not verified. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Upper Gledhill Falls?
Trail length not verified — please check the official website. Upper Gledhill Falls is located within Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park but specific access trail details are not confirmed. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Upper Gledhill Falls hike difficulty
Difficulty not verified — please check the official website for current trail conditions and access information. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Upper Gledhill Falls?
Autumn to spring (March–November) for best water flow after rainfall, avoiding summer heat and bushfire season. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Upper Gledhill Falls official website
Attractions near Upper Gledhill Falls
- •Bobbin Head — popular picnic area with marina, walking trails, and kayaking opportunities
- •West Head lookout — panoramic views over Pittwater and Broken Bay
- •The Basin — family-friendly beach accessible by ferry with camping facilities
- •Jerusalem Bay — scenic bushwalking track with secluded bay for swimming
- •Aboriginal rock engravings — numerous sites throughout the park showing Indigenous heritage
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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