Discover the Serenity of Maddens Falls

Experience the tranquility of Maddens Falls, a scenic natural wonder in Darkes Forest, perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

4.5

Looking to book tours, experiences or hotels? Let me help you...

Home
Australia
Illawarra
Maddens Falls

Nestled in the lush landscapes of Darkes Forest, Maddens Falls is a captivating scenic spot perfect for those seeking a tranquil escape into nature. This picturesque location features stunning waterfalls framed by vibrant bushland, making it an ideal destination for photography, picnics, and peaceful walks. With accessible trails, visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area, ensuring an unforgettable experience in the heart of New South Wales.

A brief summary to Maddens Falls

Madden Falls Track, Darkes Forest, New South Wales, 2508, AU
Visit website

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds at the falls.
Wear sturdy shoes as the walking trails can be uneven and slippery near the waterfalls.
Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots near the falls for a relaxing day out.
Don’t forget your camera—Maddens Falls offers stunning views perfect for photography.

Getting There

Car

From any location in Illawarra, head towards the M1 Princes Motorway. If you're near Wollongong, take the M1 North and follow signs for Sydney. After about 20 minutes, take the exit for Heathcote Road. Continue on Heathcote Road, which will turn into the Old Princes Highway. Follow the signs for Darkes Forest. As you enter Darkes Forest, look for Madden Falls Track, which is well-marked. There is a small parking area near the trailhead. Note that there may be a small parking fee, so be prepared with some coins.
Public Transportation

Take a train from Wollongong Station heading towards Central Station. Change at Sutherland Station for the train towards Waterfall. Disembark at Waterfall Station. From there, catch a bus (Bus 991 or 997) that travels towards Darkes Forest. The bus will drop you off at a stop near Madden Falls Track. Be sure to check the local bus schedules beforehand, as they can vary, and be prepared for a short walk from the bus stop to the track entrance. A one-way ticket will cost around AUD $4-$5.
Walking

Once you arrive at Madden Falls Track, you'll find a well-maintained path leading you through beautiful bushland to the falls. The walk is approximately 1.5 kilometers (about 30-40 minutes) one way, and is suitable for most fitness levels. Keep an eye out for wildlife and enjoy the serene environment along the way. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially on warm days.

Discover more about Maddens Falls

Maddens Falls is a breathtaking scenic spot located in the heart of Darkes Forest, New South Wales. This hidden gem is renowned for its stunning waterfall cascading gracefully through lush greenery, creating a serene atmosphere that captivates visitors and invites them to reconnect with nature. The falls are surrounded by vibrant bushland, offering a picturesque backdrop for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The area is easily accessible via a short walking trail, ensuring that both avid hikers and casual strollers can enjoy the beauty of this tranquil setting. As you explore Maddens Falls, you'll be treated to the soothing sounds of flowing water and the gentle rustle of leaves, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and reflection. The scenic spot is also ideal for picnics, where families and friends can gather to enjoy meals while soaking in the natural surroundings. In addition to the falls, the surrounding bushland is home to a variety of local flora and fauna, providing ample opportunities for wildlife spotting and nature walks. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat, an adventurous hike, or a picturesque location for your next Instagram post, Maddens Falls offers an enchanting experience that showcases the beauty of Australia's natural landscapes. Don’t forget to bring your camera, as the views are simply unforgettable and will leave you with lasting memories of your visit to this charming destination.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

10B cycling trail

4.9 km

Discover the breathtaking 10B Cycling Trail in Dharawal National Park, a must-visit for cycling enthusiasts and nature lovers alike in New South Wales.

Coalcliff Beach

5.8 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Coalcliff Beach, a hidden gem on New South Wales' stunning South Coast.

Mike Dwyer Reserve

6.2 km

Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Mike Dwyer Reserve, a must-visit park in Coledale, New South Wales, perfect for relaxation and recreation.

Collins Rock

12.1 km

Experience the enchanting historical landmark of Collins Rock in Woonona, where nature meets history on the stunning New South Wales coast.

Illawarra Escarpment

14.7 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Illawarra Escarpment, a stunning mountain range offering scenic vistas and diverse outdoor adventures in New South Wales.

Hacking River

15.7 km

Discover the serene beauty of Hacking River in New South Wales, a perfect destination for outdoor activities and nature exploration.

University of Wollongong

18.8 km

Discover the University of Wollongong, a stunning educational hub in New South Wales with vibrant culture, beautiful architecture, and engaging events.

Old Court House Wollongong

20.4 km

Explore the Old Court House Wollongong, a stunning heritage community center that showcases the history and culture of the region.

Flagstaff Point Lighthouse Lookout

20.4 km

Explore breathtaking views and rich maritime history at Flagstaff Point Lighthouse Lookout in Wollongong, New South Wales.

St Michael's Anglican Cathedral - Wollongong + Corrimal

20.6 km

Explore the breathtaking St Michael's Anglican Cathedral in Wollongong, a remarkable blend of history, architecture, and spiritual beauty.

St Michael's Anglican Cathedral - Wollongong + Corrimal

Illawarra Local Aboriginal Land Council

20.7 km

Discover the rich cultural heritage and vibrant community initiatives of the Illawarra Local Aboriginal Land Council in Wollongong, Australia.

Crown Street Mall

20.8 km

Experience the vibrant shopping and dining scene at Crown Street Mall in Wollongong, where local culture and contemporary style meet.

St Francis Xavier Cathedral, Wollongong

20.8 km

Discover the architectural beauty and rich history of St Francis Xavier Cathedral in Wollongong, a serene landmark of Gothic design.

Wollongong Cenotaph

21.0 km

Discover the Wollongong Cenotaph, a powerful historical landmark honoring Australia's military heroes in a serene and reflective setting.

Georges River

21.1 km

Explore the lush landscapes and recreational delights of Georges River, a serene escape in New South Wales, perfect for adventure and relaxation.

Unmissable attractions to see

Glenbernie Orchard - Home of Darkes Cider

0.4 km

Discover the flavors of nature at Glenbernie Orchard, home of Darkes Cider, in the heart of Darkes Forest, NSW. A perfect retreat for families and food lovers.

Sea Cliff Bridge Lookout

5.6 km

Discover stunning ocean views and dramatic cliffs at the Sea Cliff Bridge Lookout, a must-visit attraction in New South Wales.

Sea Cliff Bridge

5.7 km

Discover the beauty of the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge in New South Wales, a must-see destination for stunning ocean views and coastal adventures.

Sea Cliff Bridge View Point

5.8 km

Discover breathtaking views at Sea Cliff Bridge View Point, a must-see scenic destination along the stunning New South Wales coastline.

Dharawal National Park

5.9 km

Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Dharawal National Park, a hidden gem in New South Wales perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Symbio Wildlife Park

6.3 km

Experience the magic of wildlife at Symbio Wildlife Park in Helensburgh, where adventure and education blend seamlessly for an unforgettable family day out.

Stanwell tops

6.4 km

Explore the breathtaking landscapes and coastal views of Stanwell Tops, a must-visit hiking area in New South Wales.

Sublime Point Lookout

6.5 km

Discover breathtaking views of the Illawarra region at Sublime Point Lookout, an unforgettable observation deck in Austinmer, NSW.

Sri Venkateswara Temple Helensburgh Limited NSW Australia

6.6 km

Experience the serene beauty and rich cultural heritage at Sri Venkateswara Temple in Helensburgh, a spiritual sanctuary in New South Wales.

Sri Venkateswara Temple Helensburgh Limited NSW Australia

Bald Hill

7.6 km

Discover the breathtaking views at Bald Hill, a stunning mountain peak in Stanwell Tops, New South Wales, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Bald Hill Headland Reserve

7.7 km

Discover the breathtaking views and tranquil atmosphere of Bald Hill Headland Reserve, a must-visit park in Stanwell Tops, New South Wales.

HangglideOz

7.7 km

Experience the thrill of hang gliding at HangglideOz, where breathtaking views of the Australian coastline meet unforgettable adventure.

Grand Pacific Drive

7.7 km

Discover the breathtaking views and vibrant culture along Grand Pacific Drive, a scenic route from Sydney to Wollongong, Australia.

Lawrence Hargrave Memorial Monument

7.8 km

Discover breathtaking views and rich history at the Lawrence Hargrave Memorial Monument, a tribute to aviation's pioneering spirit in New South Wales.

Bald Hill Lookout

7.8 km

Discover breathtaking views at Bald Hill Lookout in Stanwell Tops, New South Wales, where nature's beauty unfolds before your eyes.

Essential places to dine

Outback Steakhouse Wollongong

18.3 km

Experience authentic Australian dining at Outback Steakhouse Wollongong with exquisite steaks and warm hospitality.

TwentyTwenty Training Restaurant

19.0 km

Experience culinary excellence at TwentyTwenty Training Restaurant in North Wollongong – where aspiring chefs craft unforgettable meals.

Lagoon Seafood Restaurant

19.0 km

Discover exquisite seafood dining with breathtaking ocean views at Lagoon Seafood Restaurant in North Wollongong.

Pepe's On The Beach

19.6 km

Experience coastal dining at Pepe's On The Beach – where exquisite flavors meet breathtaking ocean views in North Wollongong.

Lucia's By The Sea

19.7 km

Experience the best of Italian and seafood cuisine at Lucia's By The Sea in Wollongong, where stunning ocean views meet culinary excellence.

Seaside Shahi - Shahi Dining Wollongong

19.7 km

Discover authentic Indian cuisine with stunning ocean views at Seaside Shahi in Wollongong, where flavor meets seaside charm.

The Bistro on Beaton

20.1 km

Discover delightful gluten-free dining at The Bistro on Beaton in Gwynneville – where flavor meets health-conscious cuisine.

The Anchorage Restaurant

20.3 km

Experience exquisite Australian cuisine with stunning coastal views at The Anchorage Restaurant in Wollongong.

Harbourfront Seafood Restaurant

20.4 km

Experience exquisite seafood dining with stunning ocean views at Wollongong's top culinary destination.

Bombora Seafood Cafe/Restaurant

20.4 km

Discover Bombora Seafood Cafe in Wollongong - where fresh seafood meets stunning ocean views in a vibrant dining atmosphere.

K.malu Kitchen and Bar

20.5 km

Discover culinary excellence at K.malu Kitchen and Bar in Wollongong - where local flavors meet international flair.

Steamers Bar and Grill

20.5 km

Discover fresh seafood and modern Australian cuisine at Steamers Bar and Grill in beautiful Wollongong.

Bull & Bear Cafe - Restaurant

20.5 km

Experience the vibrant culinary scene at Bull & Bear Cafe in Wollongong - your go-to destination for breakfast, brunch, and delicious tapas.

Rookie Eatery

20.5 km

Experience the exquisite fusion of global flavors at Rookie Eatery in Wollongong—where every meal is a celebration of culinary excellence.

Ain't Nonna's

20.6 km

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ain't Nonna's in Wollongong - where every dish tells a story.

Discover the Florentine Collection in Wollongong, where exquisite women's fashion meets personalized styling in a charming boutique setting.

Discover the Serenity of Maddens Falls

A brief summary to Maddens Falls

Local tips

Getting There

Car

Public Transportation

Walking

Unlock the Best of Maddens Falls

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Maddens Falls

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

10B cycling trail

Coalcliff Beach

Mike Dwyer Reserve

Collins Rock

Illawarra Escarpment

Hacking River

University of Wollongong

Old Court House Wollongong

Flagstaff Point Lighthouse Lookout

St Michael's Anglican Cathedral - Wollongong + Corrimal

Illawarra Local Aboriginal Land Council

Crown Street Mall

St Francis Xavier Cathedral, Wollongong

Wollongong Cenotaph

Georges River

Unmissable attractions to see

Glenbernie Orchard - Home of Darkes Cider

Sea Cliff Bridge Lookout

Sea Cliff Bridge

Sea Cliff Bridge View Point

Dharawal National Park

Symbio Wildlife Park

Stanwell tops

Sublime Point Lookout

Sri Venkateswara Temple Helensburgh Limited NSW Australia

Bald Hill

Bald Hill Headland Reserve

HangglideOz

Grand Pacific Drive

Lawrence Hargrave Memorial Monument

Bald Hill Lookout

Essential places to dine

Outback Steakhouse Wollongong

TwentyTwenty Training Restaurant

Lagoon Seafood Restaurant

Pepe's On The Beach

Lucia's By The Sea

Seaside Shahi - Shahi Dining Wollongong

The Bistro on Beaton

The Anchorage Restaurant

Harbourfront Seafood Restaurant

Bombora Seafood Cafe/Restaurant

K.malu Kitchen and Bar

Steamers Bar and Grill

Bull & Bear Cafe - Restaurant

Rookie Eatery

Ain't Nonna's

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Magnolia Collective

Corrimal Village

North Beach Boutique

Blu Emporium Corner Store

Wandering Merchants

Wollongong Central Shopping Centre

Kingsway Clothing

Typo

Trenz Resort Wear

TK Maxx Wollongong

Jam Woman Clothing

Forever New Wollongong

VanQ Shop

Frolic Girls

Florentine Collection

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

UOW UniBar

North Wollongong Hotel

Dusty Lizard Brewing