Last verified 05/26
Somersby Falls is near Gosford, set in a stretch of rainforest. It's an 800-metre return walk, with lookouts over three tiers of cascading falls.
The track starts beside the picnic area and heads down towards the falls. It’s short, but expect plenty of steps, including the climb back up to the car park.
We like walking down to the waterfalls on hot days. The shade and running water make the area feel much cooler.
If you’re looking for a quick nature break without a long hike, this walk is a great choice. Visit after rain for the best flow.
On this page
Quick Facts – Somersby Falls
Why Visit Somersby Falls
One of the best things about Somersby Falls is that you can get very close to the waterfalls without needing to go on a long hike.
The top waterfall is the main attraction. It’s wide and easy to reach, and you’ll often see people standing at the base or wading into the water.
The path goes through thick rainforest and is mostly shaded.
Getting There and Parking
Somersby Falls is in Brisbane Water National Park on the Central Coast, about an hour north of Sydney and an hour and fifteen minutes south of Newcastle.
Take the M1 Motorway and exit toward Gosford. There’s no public transport, so you’ll need to drive.
The main car park is at the end of Somersby Falls Road and costs $8 for the day.
If you’d rather not pay, you can park along Somersby Falls Road before the entrance and walk in.
Picnic Area and Facilities
The picnic area is the first thing you’ll see when you arrive, right next to the car park and the start of the walk.
You’ll find barbecues, picnic tables, toilets and plenty of shade. It’s a good spot to bring food and spend the day, especially with kids. Have your picnic before or after the walk, so you’re not carrying an esky or bags down the stairs.
A few things to know before you go:
- Accessibility: wheelchair-friendly, with an accessible toilet. The track down to the falls isn’t wheelchair-friendly, since it has plenty of steps.
- Busy times: weekends and school holidays draw crowds. Go early morning or late afternoon for a quieter visit.
- Swimming: not really a swimming spot. The pools are shallow, though people do wade and splash when it’s warm.
- Food: no shops or cafes nearby, so bring what you need. Waterfall Cafe on Parklands Road is about ten minutes away.
Somersby Falls Walking Track
From the picnic area to the top waterfall
The track starts at the picnic ground beside the car park.
The walk is 800 metres return, with plenty of steps both going down and on the climb back up.
On the way down, you’ll pass a small waterfall area that’s usually less crowded. Keep going, and you’ll reach the top waterfall, about 100 metres from the start.
Top waterfall (main highlight)
This is the biggest waterfall and the highlight of the walk.
Many people stop here. If you don’t want to tackle more stairs, you can turn back now and still feel like you’ve seen the main attraction.
Kids often play on the rock platform, but you’ll need to watch them because there’s a steep drop on the left side.
From the top to the bottom waterfall
The track continues down to the lower waterfall. This part of the track is more slippery, with narrow, wet stone steps near the end.
The bottom waterfall is similar but smaller. It’s still worth the extra few minutes.
Best Time to Visit
Somersby Falls is best visited after rain, when the waterfalls flow well and are worth seeing. In dry conditions, the falls can be minimal, but the walk still suits the rainforest setting and easy access. Hot days work well too, since the rainforest stays cool.
Safety Tips
The stairs can get slippery, especially between the top and bottom waterfalls. Wearing good shoes helps.
Keep a close eye on children near the top waterfall, especially by the drop-off on the left.
Young children might need help with the steeper stairs, especially on the way back up.
This walk isn’t suitable for prams because of the stairs and uneven ground.
Final Verdict
Somersby Falls gives you rainforest and waterfall views on a short walk close to Gosford. The distance suits most visitors, but the stairs make the climb back tougher than the length suggests.
If you’re short on time, visiting with kids, or just want somewhere easy to reach, it’s a great choice. Try to go after it rains for the best experience.
Check the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service website for more information.
Related Walks on the Central Coast
Walks and Bushwalks
Coastal tracks, national park trails and easy family walks across the Central Coast.
Things to Do
Beaches, lookouts, markets and local spots across the Central Coast.
Piles Creek Loop Walk
If you want a longer or more adventurous walk, Piles Creek Loop is a better option nearby.
Family Activities
Fun things to do with kids on the Central Coast.
8 Best Brisbane Water National Park Walks
The best walks in Brisbane Water National Park, from waterfalls and lookouts to rainforest bush tracks and Aboriginal sites.