Mackenzie Falls

Two people walking along the path in front of Mackenzie Falls at Grampians National Park

This area has additional visitor advice This area has reported issues This area is closed

Explore

Mackenzie Falls

Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park

Mackenzie Falls is the most iconic and spectacular waterfall in the Grampians. Watch the majestic waterfall from the lookout platform or tackle the steep climb to the base of the falls. Make the most of your day trip in the Grampians National Park with a strenuous walk through the beautiful Mackenzie River Gorge to Zumsteins Historic Area.

Mackenzie Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in Victoria and a must-see on your trip to Grampians National Park. It's the only waterfall in the Grampians that flows all year round.

See the beauty and power of Mackenzie Falls from a variety of lookouts and walks, which start at the carpark and cater to a range of abilities.

As waterfalls are within a natural environment, you may encounter hazards. Follow our water safety advice to make sure your day out at Mackenzie Falls is a safe and enjoyable one.

Please note that for visitor and staff safety, Mackenzie Falls precinct (including Fish Falls) will be closed on days of Catastrophic Fire Danger. Check the Fire Danger Rating forecast before you visit at cfa.vic.gov.au.

Things to do

Mackenzie Falls Walk
Embark on a steep walk to the base of Mackenzie Falls to see the waterfall up close and get a true sense of its power. Watch as water gracefully cascades down the sheer cliff face into the pretty pool below, creating a fine rainbow mist in the air.

It may seem inviting to take a dip, but swimming is not permitted at Mackenzie Falls due to many unseen dangers in the water.

The walk is 2km return and you'll need to trek down 260 narrow steps to reach the base of the falls, so be prepared for a difficult climb back to the top.

Mackenzie Falls Lookout Walk
Enjoy sweeping views of Mackenzie Falls and the Mazkenzie River from Bluff Lookout. The 1.9km return walk is wheelchair friendly and meanders through stringybark forest. The lookout is the only spot where you can see multiple cascades of the river flowing through the gorge. 

Broken Falls Walk
Admire beautiful views of the upper sections of Mackenzie Falls on the Broken Falls Walk. The 500m walk is wheelchair friendly and has only a slight track gradient. Broken Falls Lookout is one of the best places to see the impressive geological formations of the Mackenzie River Gorge.

Mackenzie River Walk
One of the Grampians' best kept secrets, the Mackenzie River Walk winds it way along the river through young eucalypt forest. Best tackled by fit walkers, the 7km return walk (Fish Falls 4km return) can require water crossings, rock hopping and rock scrambling.

Enjoy scenic views of tranquil waterholes, rocky escarpments and the terraced cascades of Fish Falls. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including the impressive Wedge-tailed Eagle circling above.

Finish the walk with a picnic or barbecue at Zumsteins Historic Area and discover the remnants of an historic settlement, including old buildings and a now-empty swimming pool.

A couple enjoy a picnic by the MacKenzie river at Zumsteins Historic Area.

Zumsteins Historic Area

Zumsteins Picnic Area is located on the banks of the MacKenzie River and is the site of an historic settlement. It provides a great opportunity to relax in the natural setting of the Grampians, enjoy the wildlife, a barbecue and a short stroll.
A husband and wife stop to take a photo of Masons Falls from the lookout.

Day trips

Pack the car and round up your family and friends. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, parks offer a variety of day trips close to Melbourne.
Three friends enjoy a picnic on the grass in front of the historic Wallace Hut.

Picnics

Head outdoors for lunch in the warmer months and enjoy a picnic in some of nature's most relaxing and inspiring settings.

Brambuk The National Park and Culture Centre

Brambuk The National Park and Cultural Centre in Halls Gap began with the building of the Brambuk Cultural Centre in 1989 to acknowledge, protect and share the cultures of the Jadawadjali and Djab Wurrung Peoples.

How to get there

Mackenzie Falls

Mackenzie Falls

When you're there

Swimming is not permitted at Mackenzie Falls due to the risk of injury and drowning. Strong currents, submerged objects and cold, deep water make it too dangerous to swim. Take care on the walk to the base of the falls, as steps and rocks can be very slippery.

Mackenzie Falls is a popular place in the Grampians. Visit early in the day to escape the crowds. Download the Grampians National Park Visitor Guide before you go. 

Need to know

Mackenzie Falls

Accessibility

The Mackenzie Falls Walk and Broken Falls Walk are suitable for people with limited mobility and wheelchairs.

Assistance dogs are welcome in Parks Victoria parks and reserves. Entry requirements apply for parks and reserves that are usually dog prohibited, such as national parks.

 

Change of Conditions

Nature being nature, sometimes conditions can change at short notice. It’s a good idea to check this page ahead of your visit for any updates.

  • Mackenzie Falls Day Visitor Area

    Mackenzie Falls (Migunang wirab) – Closed for major construction works – 9 February 2026 to midyear 2026

    Construction work at Mackenzie Falls in the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park is underway and the carpark and precinct is closed to visitors.
     
    The works at Mackenzie Falls precinct includes the construction of a new viewing platform at the base of the falls, upgrades to the carpark and the Bluff Lookout Walk and other important safety improvements to stabilise rock and improve walking tracks.

    The Mackenzie Falls carpark and all walking tracks in the precinct including Broken Falls Walk, Mackenzie Falls Walk to the base (from the carpark) and the Bluff Lookout Walk are all closed. We anticipate that construction work will finish in the second half of the year.
     
    The carpark will be a construction site throughout the works period with large machinery operating and materials being stored on site.  There will be no access for all vehicles or visitors at Mackenzie Falls Precinct during construction.  

    Zumsteins Picnic Area Parking
    During construction parking at the popular Zumsteins picnic area will be limited. It is not recommended for large passenger coaches and long caravans to visit during construction. Similarly, they should not travel between Mackenzie Falls and Zumsteins due to the narrow winding road.
     
    A small amount of parking for campervans, small motorhomes and cars with trailers is available opposite the Zumsteins Picnic Area car park, however, may not be available on busy weekends and public holidays.
     
    Zumsteins to Fish Falls – This popular walk to the beautiful Fish Falls is a 1.5 to 2 hour return walk (Grade 3) – walkers should have a reasonable fitness level, carry water and wear sturdy walking shoes as the track can be rocky with uneven surfaces and some steep sections.
      
    Mackenzie River Walk – There will be no access to the base of Mackenzie Falls from Zumsteins Picnic Area from 27 April 2026 until construction works are complete. Fish Falls will still be accessible from Zumsteins Picnic Area.
     
    For further information on the Mackenzie Falls (Migunang wirab) project visit https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/projects/western-victoria/mackenzie-falls-revitalisation
     
    Popular day visitor sites such as Reeds Lookout, the Balconies, Boroka Lookout, Silverband Falls and various walks with large bus carparking will still be available.
     
    For further information contact Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre in Halls Gap (Ph 8427 2058).
     
    Please keep up to date with closures through the Change of Conditions page for Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park.

  • Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park

    Rockclimbing Access Changes - Centurion Walls, Tortoise Wall

    Re-discovery of cultural heritage at two designated rock-climbing sites in Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park has resulted in changes to access.
     
    Centurion Walls
    Significant Aboriginal cultural values were rediscovered at Lower Centurion in late 2025. As a result, a partial closure is now in place, ensuring cultural heritage protection while maintaining modified climbing access for visitors. On-ground signage at the access track clearly delineates where climbing is or isn’t permitted. 
     
    Visitors are advised:
    • Access is closed from the area north of and including Damage Done. These sites include: 
      Damage Done, Shades of Black, Liberator, Lexicon, Temuujin, Killer Wolf, Devilled Haircut, Compressor route, Anti-Christ Superstar, Pining for the Fiords, Unknown Route 2, Genghis Khan, Project KP2, Project KP, Kublai Khan, Stone Temptress, Psychotic Episode, Trail of the dead, Flood the Zone, Push it Upstairs, Progressive Happy House.

    • All climbs south of and including In Plain Sight remain open. These climbs include; In Plain Sight, Who Dreams of Cats, Who Dreams of Cats – short,  Nowhere to Hide, Afterworld, Left Hand Black, Centrifugal Force, Centrifugal Force – Romanes Eunt Domas (linkup), Romanes Eunt Domas, Black Nobility, Sandpit, Ton Steine Scherben, Winged Corpse, HCP, Massacres and Maniacs, Lunchbox Legend, and AA New Rope / New route.
     
    • Access to Upper Centurion remains unchanged and is via the south end near Winged Corpse.
     
    Tortoise Wall
    We’re currently asking visitors to not access the area known as ‘Tortoise Wall’ to avoid causing potential harm to Aboriginal cultural heritage that was rediscovered in April 2026. A temporary closure is now in place, while Parks Victoria and Gariwerd Traditional Owners determine a longer-term management response. Out of respect for this significant cultural landscape, visitors are requested to not access this area.
     
    For further information visit the 'rock climbing in Gariwerd' web page https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/grampians-national-park/rock-climbing-in-gariwerd

    Temporary closure of a Glenelg River Road section – 25 May to 26 June 2026

    The section of Glenelg River Road from the Stony Creek Road intersection to the Boreang Campground turn off will be closed from Monday 25 May 2026 to Friday 26 June 2026 for roadworks.

    The southern end of the closure can be accessed via Rose Creek Road. Paddy Castle walk and Boreang Campground remain open, as does Glenelg River Road, south of Lodge Road.

    Mount Victory Road will have an increased amount of heavy trucks and machinery. Drivers are urged to slow down and drive with care, particularly in tight corners.

    Please refer to the map provided for detour information.


    For further information please contact Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre Phone 8427 2058. 

    Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park - Roads Update 12.06.2026

    The Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park has roads temporarily closed due to bushfire and weather impacts.
    Please be aware the movement of visitors in parts of the National Park is restricted.

    Ongoing Roadworks
    Glenelg River Rd

    The section of Glenelg River Road from the Stony Creek Road intersection to the Boreang Campground turn off will be closed until Friday 26 June 2026 for roadworks.

    The southern end of the closure can be accessed via Rose Creek Road. Paddy Castle walk and Boreang Campground remain open, as does Glenelg River Road, south of Lodge Road.

    Likely increased traffic on Rose Creek Road.

    Recent Openings
    Mitchell Rd

    Recent Closures
    Lodge Rd – from Rose Creek Rd to Red Rock Rd

    Syphon Rd will be closed for roadworks from Glenelg River Road to Goat Track/Victoria Range Tk intersection.

    Please be aware the northern section of Syphon Road from Goat Track to Lodge Rd remains an existing temporary closure. 

    Seasonal Road Closures are now in place from 9 June 2026 to 29 October 2026.

    For more detail, please refer to the attached up-to-date road report attached.

    Attachments: Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park - Road Report 12.06.2026 (237KB)

  • Billimina Walk

    Billimina Walk – Temporary closure

    Billimina Walk and Rock Art Shelter remain closed to visitors due to track damage from the 2024/25 summer bushfires.

    An alternative walk in this area is the Manja Walk to the Manja Shelter, which is an Aboriginal Rock Art site in the Victoria Range.

    For more information visit Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre in Halls Gap or call 03 8427 2058.

  • The Fortress Walk (Victoria Range Remote and Natural Area)

    The Fortress Walk and Hike-in Campground – Temporary closure

    The Fortress Walk and The Fortress Hike-in Camp remain closed to visitors due to track damage from the 2024/25 summer bushfires.

    For more information on alternate walks in the western section of the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park visit Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre in Halls Gap or call 03 8427 2058.

  • The Chimney Pots Walk (Victoria Range Remote and Natural Area)

    The Chimney Pots Walk – Temporary closure

    The Chimney Pots Walk remains closed to visitors due to track damage from the 2024/25 summer bushfires.

    For more information on alternate walks in the western section of the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park visit Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre in Halls Gap or call 03 8427 2058.

  • Red Gum Walk

    Red Gum Walk – Temporary closure

    The Red Gum Walk remains closed to visitors due to track damage from the 2024/25 summer bushfires.

    For more information on alternate walks in the western section of the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park visit Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre in Halls Gap or call 03 8427 2058.
     

  • Mafeking Picnic Area

    Mafeking Picnic Ground and Brownings Loop Walk – Temporary closure

    Mafeking Picnic Area and Brownings Loop Walk remain closed to visitors due to damage from the 2024/25 summer bushfires.

    For more information visit Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre in Halls Gap or call 03 8427 2058.

  • Strachans Campground

    Strachans Campground –Temporary Closure – 13 April – 25 June 2026

    Strachans Campground will be closed to visitors for major upgrade works from 13 April to 25 June 2026.
     
    Alternative campgrounds can be booked at https://bookings.parks.vic.gov.au/book

    For further information contact Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre in Halls Gap (Ph 8427 2058).

  • Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre

    Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre – Building Upgrades in 2026

    The Cultural Centre is closed for refurbishment.
     
    Parks Victoria is working with a strategic partnership committee of Gariwerd Traditional Owners from Barengi Gadjin Land Council, Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation, and Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation to ‘reimagine’ the future of Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre.
     
    Building upgrades are essential to ensure the centre meets current services requirements, accessibility, and compliance to current building regulation. New visitor experiences and activation opportunities including Aboriginal arts, community events and cultural exhibitions are being explored as Brambuk moves towards operation by a Gariwerd Traditional Owner entity.
     
    The National Park Information Centre and gift shop remain open.
     
    For up-to-date national park information, brochures, maps, permits and access advice contact information staff at Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre info@parks.vic.gov.au or phone 8427 2058

    For Junior Ranger School holiday programs visit https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/things-to-do/junior-rangers

    For a list of Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park Licensed Tour Operators Visit https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/lto

    Further details on the Brambuk Reimagining project can be found on the Parks Victoria website https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/projects/western-victoria/brambuk-cultural-centre-upgrade

  • Notices Affecting Multiple Parks

    Pest Animal Control Program Scheduled in Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park and Black Range State Park (Burrunj)

    Throughout June, a ground shooting program (involving firearms) will occur throughout Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park and Black Range State Park (Burrunj) located west of the Henty Highway near Cherrypool.
     
    • Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park: Every week of June
    • Black Range State Park (Burrunj): 22nd June and 25 June
     
    The program will be delivered at night between 6pm to 5am, in remote areas away from busy visitor sites, and will be carried out by professionals under strict conditions to ensure practices are safe, effective, and humane.
     
    There will be no visitor site closures as part of this operation. Areas will be thoroughly assessed and swept prior, but there may be signage in place to notify visitors of the operation occurring in the surrounding area. 
     
    Target species include deer and goats which cause serious damage to native plants, animals, and habitat by trampling and destroying plants, increasing grazing pressure, ring-barking young trees, fouling waterholes, causing soil erosion, and spreading weeds. Introduced predators (foxes and cats) prey on small mammals and reptiles and impact the ability of these species to recover from bushfire events.
     
    For further information, please contact Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre at brambuk@parks.vic.gov.au  

Similar experiences

 
A husband and wife stop to take a photo of Masons Falls from the lookout.

Masons Falls

Enjoy a picnic in the beautiful surrounds of Masons Falls Picnic Area. Set among towering gums, the large shelters and free gas barbecues make it the perfect place for a social gathering. The short waterfall walk is a real highlight.
Three friends standing at the Erskine Falls lookout admiring the waterfall.

Erskine Falls

Erskine Falls are at the end of Erskine Falls Road 10km north west of Lorne. There is a viewing point above the falls and a walking track, steep in places, leads to the base of the falls. The falls cascade over one of the highest drops in the Otways.
A couple stand and admire Sheoak Falls near Lorne in the Great Otway National Park.

Sheoak Falls

The Sheoak Falls Walk weaves its way from the coastal woodland at the mouth of the Sheoak Creek and through wet forest to the hidden cascades of Sheoak Falls.
X
By using our site you accept that we use and share cookies and similar technologies with certain approved third parties. These tools enable us to improve your website experience and to provide content and ads tailored to your interests. By continuing to use our site you consent to this. Please see our Privacy Policy for more information.
Confirm