The waterfall drops 200 meters, consistently ranking it among the highest single-drop waterfalls in Australia.
The base of the falls is accessible via a staircase originally constructed in the late 1990s.
The water source for the falls is the Ellenborough River, which flows across the plateau before plummeting over the escarpment.
The surrounding landscape is part of an ancient volcanic plateau known as the Bulga Plateau.
The area is home to diverse species, including the endangered stuttering frog.
Ellenborough Falls is one of the tallest single-drop waterfalls in the Southern Hemisphere, plunging 200 meters into a forested gorge. Located in the Mid North Coast hinterland, the site features a primary viewing platform accessible via a short, paved walk from the main parking area. A steep, challenging staircase consisting of 641 steps leads visitors from the top of the falls to the base pool. The surrounding vegetation is predominantly subtropical rainforest and wet sclerophyll forest. Erosion management is ongoing, and path closures may occur following heavy rainfall to ensure visitor safety. The site is managed by the MidCoast Council and is part of the Bulga Plateau region.
The elevated viewing platform at the top provides the most expansive panoramic view of the entire drop.
Wear sturdy, enclosed hiking boots if you plan to descend the 641 steps to the base.
Carry sufficient drinking water as there are no retail facilities at the base of the trail.
Check the official MidCoast Council website for current trail closure alerts due to weather conditions before departing.
Do not attempt the staircase to the base if you have limited mobility or health concerns, as the return climb is strenuous.
Stay behind safety fences; do not disturb native flora or fauna; pack out all trash.
