Erskine Falls is easily one of the most magnificent and well-known waterfalls along the Great Ocean Road. Moreover, it’s the perfect opportunity for a family-day activity or adventure with your friends.
I would recommend visiting this waterfall if you’re travelling the Great Ocean Road or staying in Lorne as it’s the largest waterfall and a favourite among locals and travellers. Besides, it’s likely one of the most impressive waterfalls in Victoria!
Continue reading to discover all of my best tips for visiting this lush location to ensure your visit is the ultimate experience! I would also advise that you save this page for later and bookmark it for future travels.
Erskine Falls
Erksine Falls is an impressive waterfall in Lorne, Victoria. The 30-metre cascade pours rapidly down the face of the cliff and creates beautiful veils of smaller streams.
There are two lookout locations to enjoy views of this stunning cataract. However, I recommend heading to the base of the falls for the ultimate perspective. To do so, you will need to follow roughly 240 stone steps to reach the base.
Nonetheless, the first viewing platform is a great location to view this waterfall if unable to hike up and down all the steps. Besides, it gives an outstanding view of the waterfall and surrounding bushland. Additionally, there is a small bench to take a seat while soaking up the energy of the forest.
However, if you’re able to get to the base of the falls, I recommend doing so. Regardless, keep an eye on children as the steps are steep and ensure they’re close to an adult at all times.
Finally, spend some time at the platform enjoying the front-on view of this superb water feature. Don’t miss a visit to this breathtaking location while travelling the Great Ocean Road.
Read more: The Best Great Ocean Road Campsites
How to Get to Erskine Falls
The best and most common starting location is from the Lorne township. Besides, it’s easy to reach and a popular activity for holiday-goers in and around Lorne.
Starting from Lorne, you will need to drive around 10km or 14-minutes to reach the car park for Erskine Falls. Therefore, you will need to use Erskine Falls Road and follow the signage towards the access road.
Then, park your vehicle in the space provided. There is enough space for roughly 30 cars and I would not recommend these roads for larger vehicles like caravans or motorhomes. Keep in mind this location gets truly busy during school holidays, so skip the crowds and arrive early!
Lastly, head towards the signage and follow the steps to reach the base of the falls. But, don’t forget to take the first short turn-off to view the waterfall from above.
Address: Erskine Falls Access Rd, Lorne VIC 3232
Additional Information
The best time of year to visit Erskine Falls is anytime from February to November. However, I would suggest you avoid visiting during any school holidays or public holidays. Considering, these are likely to be the busiest times with lots of children and tourists.
Unfortunately, there isn’t much space for a picnic at the base of the waterfall. But, it might be nice to enjoy a snack or coffee whilst enjoying the mist of the falls as it sweeps over you.
As always, it’s great to visit a waterfall after heavy rain as this will ensure a better flow of water. However, avoid completing this hike during the wet weather as the steps down to the falls will be extremely slippery.
Additonally, I would advise that you take a least an hour enjoying this blissful location including the walk to and from the car park. The track is a straightforward 1km return trek, but requires a decent fitness level with the returning stair climb.
Finally, use the visitor information posts for more advice on the Great Otway National Park region and for a brief introduction into the history of the area.
Time: 1-1.5 hours
Distance: 1km return
Grade: Easy-Medium. Lots of steep stairs
Dogs: Not allowed
Wheelchair access: No safe wheelchair access
Swimming: Not possible as the base quickly turns into a stream
Other Activities in the Area
While you’ve trekked out to reach this serene location, you might as well have a look at some of the other things to do while visiting Erskine Falls. Besides, there’s plenty to do in the Great Otway National Park.
- Straw Falls
- Splitter Falls
- Blanket Leaf Picnic Area
- Live Wire Park
- Phantom Falls
Add a couple of these extra activities to your list to enjoy a day packed with adventure in nature! Another one of my favourite waterfalls near Lorne is Sheoak Falls. You can read more about that waterfall in the travel guide linked below.
Read more: Sheoak Falls, Lorne | Informative Travel Guide
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, I think it’s fair to say that Erskine Falls is one of the most beautiful Great Ocean Road waterfalls. And, you’re sure to discover why once you’ve paid a visit.
There’s something about witnessing a breathtaking waterfall like this one, knowing it’s so close to the ocean; It makes you realise what a truly magnificent country Australia is.
Besides, the easy accessibility makes it great for families, tourists and locals who are willing to enjoy a stunningly lush location.
Nonetheless, take some time to soak up all of the charm of the Great Otway National Park and be sure to do some further exploring of this wondrous region. I’ve included a few additional places to add to your list and recommend putting in the effort to make a visit.
What are some of your favourite waterfalls in the Victoria region? Will you visit any of the other locations that I’ve mentioned?
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