Cyathea Falls is a modest yet stunning waterfall in Tarra Bulga National Park. The southern Gippsland attraction is a perfect road trip for families, couples, and solo travellers. And, this national park is one of only four rainforests in the Victoria region.
Firstly, the waterfall is set amongst fern gullies and towering mountain ash trees in a cool temperate rainforest; Therefore making it a great location to enjoy on a warm summer afternoon.
Secondly, enjoy watching the water trickle down the face of the rock while taking in the lush scenery of the Tarra Valley region.
Finally, while exploring this majestic area, keep an eye out for the stunning myrtle beech trees and take a moment to inspect their wildly growing trunks. This adventure is fantastic for children, and you may come upon a lyrebird. Keep your eyes peeled!
Cyathea Falls
A stunning waterfall in the South of the Tarra Bulga National Park, Cyathea Falls, is a great addition when visiting the Corrigan Suspension Bridge and makes for the perfect road trip from Melbourne. Not to mention, the waterfall is excellent for long-exposure photography.
Try to spend around an hour or two in this peaceful location to truly soak up the magical ambience that this tiny corner of the world has to offer. You’ll be shocked as soon as you pass the Tarra Valley signage, just how mystical this piece of paradise feels.
It truly is one of the most beautiful Tarra Bulga waterfalls and I highly recommend visiting while you’re in the region.
Tip: While visiting this magnificent spot, take a short drive down the road to view Tarra Falls. While this waterfall isn’t as pretty as the first location, it’s still a great spot to visit nonetheless.
Information and How to Get To Cyathea Falls
Distance: 2km return
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 1 Hour
Facilities: Toilets, shelter and picnic tables
The Tarra Bulga National Park is roughly a 2 Hour and 20 Minute drive from Melbourne. However, this national park boasts a few of Victorias most Instagram-worthy locations.
For the most part, visitors tend to view the Corrigan Suspension Bridge and then head down to visit Cyathea Falls and Tarra Valley picnic area. Therefore, it’s best to take Grand Ridge Road from the bridge to reach the falls.
Keep in mind, there may be some parts of the national park where you will receive little to no mobile phone service. Therefore, you will need to have directions to these attractions planned in advance to avoid getting lost or confused.
However, the road is very windy and becomes narrow upon reaching the falls; Please take your time and drive cautiously. It’s usually a 15-minute drive to reach the destination.
Finally, to reach this Tarra Bulga waterfall, park your vehicle at the picnic area parking spaces provided and then head towards the sign that reads ‘Tarra Valley’. You will then begin the walking leg of the trip. Take care on the steps as they are very slippery when wet.
Address: Cyathea Falls, 2079 Tarra Valley Rd, Tarra Valley VIC 3971
Read more: Tarra-Bulga National Park: Travel Guide
What to Bring
Pack some lunch to enjoy in the sheltered picnic area before or after your adventure. Also, I’d recommend wearing clothing that covers your body as leeches may be present. Additionally, bring a water bottle and a camera to take photos of the magnificent trees and waterfalls.
After wandering to the waterfall and exploring the walking trails, I recommend stopping for a moment at the Tarra Valley Picnic Area.
This is the location where your vehicle is parked and is the perfect spot for some post-walk lunch. Moreover, bring some food to enjoy at these park benches and gaze at the views from the shelters; The setting is simply stunning.
You’ll want to be prepared when visiting this rural area as there are limited facilities in the region. Therefore, pack enough food and water for a days supply. And, always stick to the marked trails to avoid getting lost. I would recommend downloading some offline maps so that you always have GPS directions with no need for mobile service.
I’d recommend visiting my hiking guide if you plan on completing various hikes. This guide will inform you of everything you need to know for hiking solo or with someone.
Read more: Hiking Checklist and Essentials: Everything You Need to Know
The Best Time of Year to Visit Cyathea Falls
Since the waterfall is set in a national park in a cool temperate rainforest setting, the optimal time of year to visit is during September and December. Moreover, this is during the Spring months, so you’ll be sure to see plenty of blossoming flora and stunning new growth. Not to mention, the waterfall will be flowing beautifully.
Tip: Before making the trip to the waterfall, ensure the area has had a few days of rain to guarantee the optimal flow of the waterfall.
Other Attractions in the Area
The Tarra Bulga National Park is home to numerous attractions and activities for everyone to enjoy. Therefore, be prepared to do some exploring of this area to make the trip worth it. Check out the additional attractions in the list below:
- Tarra Falls
- Corrigan Suspension Bridge
- Tarra Bulga Visitor Centre
- Tarra Bulga Guest House & Cafe
- Grand Strzelecki Track
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, the Tarra Bulga National Park has a few stunning gems on offer, which not many Melbournians have visited. Therefore, take the chance to explore this region while it’s still under the radar.
Not to mention, the park has easy access to the southern coastline, with only a 45-minute drive necessary to reach Port Albert. Or, go a little further to arrive at Wilsons Promontory.
Finally, Cyathea Falls is the perfect short escape from the city; And you’re bound to realise why once stepping foot into the rainforest. Be sure to enjoy both of the stunning Tarra Bulga waterfalls in the area while enjoying this magnificent national park.
What is the prettiest waterfall you’ve seen? Be sure to tell me how your adventure to this location goes in the comments below!
Read more:
10 Best Places to Visit in Victoria in 2021
Hiking Checklist and Essentials: Everything You Need to Know
