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 Extreme and 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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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Grampians National Park
Mountain Lion (Designated rock-climbing and bouldering area) – Temporary exclusion
Mountain Lion (Designated rock-climbing and bouldering area) – Temporary exclusionSignificant Aboriginal cultural values have recently been rediscovered at the Mountain Lion designated rock-climbing and bouldering area.While Parks Victoria and Gariwerd Traditional Owners determine a longer-term management response, and out of respect for this significant cultural landscape, visitors are requested to not access this area.The Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 protects Aboriginal cultural heritage and significant financial penalties apply for harm caused by individuals or corporate bodies.For more information please visit the FAQ Update at the Rock Climbing in Gariwerd link below.Pest animal control program in the Grampians – Deer and feral goats 29.04.2024 – 03.05.2024
An ongoing conservation program in the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park will be supported this month by a ground control operation targeting deer and feral goats.Weather permitting, a ground shooting operation will be undertaken on weekdays between 29 April – 3 May to target these pest animals in remote parts of the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park (see attached fact sheet with map).During this time Boreang Campground will be closed.To ensure visitor safety, warning signs will be placed at campgrounds and at major road access points to the control area. Visitors are encouraged to follow all instructions on permanent and temporary signage.Informed by scientific research, this program is aimed at controlling/reducing introduced deer and goat populations that are threatening the important natural and cultural values of the Greater Gariwerd Landscape.For further information please contact 13 1963.Attachments: Notification - Fact sheet - Grampians Deer Control April 2024 (540KB)
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Notices Affecting Multiple Sites
Grampians Planned Burn advice - Re-openings for ANZAC Day and weekend
FFMVIC has recently conducted 5 planned burns within Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park.With a cool change passing through on Tuesday night (23rd April), ignition has now ceased and crews are now completing hazard assessments in preparation for the burn areas to re-open.Planned burns will be patrolled over the coming weekend until officially declared safe. Under regulations, visitors are not permitted to enter burn areas that remain closed.Millstream Creek burn (3km East of Smiths Mill Campground, 20km West of Halls Gap)Smiths Mill Campground was recently closed to support planned burn operations. Ignition has now ceased and crews are now completing hazard assessments in preparation for the burn areas to re-open.With mild weather conditions forecast over the coming days, visitors may still see minimal fire activity and may be impacted by smoke. For advice on how this may impact your health, visit www.epa.vic.gov.au/smokeFFMVIC crews will continue patrolling the burn area east of the campground into the weekend.Partial Re-opening Wednesday April 24th 17:00hrsBoroka LookoutLake Wartook LookoutMt Difficult Road between Boroka Lookout and Lake WartookPartial Reopening - Thursday April 25th 08:00hrsSmiths Mill Campground *Note - Vehicle access is available only via Mt Victory Road and Lake Wartook Road. Arrivals tonight to be supported by FFMVIC CrewsOperational closures throughout the coming week:Old Mill Road (Between Smiths Mill and Boroka Lookout)Rose Creek Road (North between Mt Victory Road and Old Mill Road)Ricky Track (MVO)For any further information on the burn operations please contact Wimmera Fire District (03) 8508 1222For bookings or cancellations advice please contact Parks Victoria Information Centre Ph 13 1963For local park information and advice please contact Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre Phone 8427 2058
Cassidy Gap GR-WIM-CAV-00071 (3km north of Dunkeld)Section S3 of the Grampians Peaks Trail and some day walks north of Dunkeld have been closed due to Planned burn operations. Ignition has now ceased and crews will new undertake risk treatments in preparation for the burn unit to open.With mild weather conditions forecast over the coming days, visitors may still see minimal fire activity in the range (west of Mud-dadjug and south of Cassidy Gap) and may be impacted by smoke. For advice on how this may impact your health, visit www.epa.vic.gov.au/smokeFFMVIC crews will continue patrolling the burn area into the weekend.Partial Re-opening of visitor areas Wednesday April 24th 17:00 hoursGrampians Peaks Trail Section S3 – Cassidy Gap to Piccaninny Car Park over Signal Peak to Dunkeld Reservoir RoadMud-dadjug Hike in CampgroundMt Abrupt day walkSignal Peak day walkCassidy Gap Road – From Grampians Road to Grampians Peaks Trail TrailheadDjardji-Djawara Hike in campground is open but depending on conditions may impacted by smokeMann’s Road east of the intersection with Victoria Valley RdOperational closures throughout the coming week:Cassidy Gap Road from closed from Cassidy Gap Trailhead to Serra Fireline (west side of the range)Serra Range Fireline is closed at the intersection of Vic Valley Road and Cassidy Gap RoadFor any further information on the burn operations please contact Wimmera Fire District (03) 8508 1222For bookings or cancellations advice please contact Parks Victoria Information Centre Ph 13 1963For local park information and advice please contact Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre Phone 8427 2058
Oslers Track GR-WIM-HGP-0042FFMVIC have recently completed planned burning operations in the forest just south of Plantation Campground, 8km north of Halls Gap. Ignition has now ceased and crews will new undertake risk treatments in preparation for the burn unit to open.With mild weather conditions forecast over the coming days, visitors may still see minimal fire activity and may be impacted by smoke. For advice on how this may impact your health, visit www.epa.vic.gov.au/smokeFFMVIC crews will continue patrolling the burn area east of the campground into the weekend.Partial Reopening of visitor areas Wednesday April 24th 17:00hrsPlantation campgroundPines road openMt Zero RoadOperational Closures throughout the coming week:Oslers track (Between Red Gum Lease Track and Pines Road)Fire trails and bush camping in the burn area south of Plantation CampgroundFor any further information on the burn operations please contact Wimmera Fire District (03) 8508 1222For bookings or cancellations advice please contact Parks Victoria Information Centre Ph 13 1963For local park information and advice please contact Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre Phone 8427 2058
Victoria Range GR-WIM-CAV-0009FFMVIC have recently completed planned burning operations in the Victoria Range area 36km north of Cavendish. Ignition has now ceased and crews will new undertake risk treatments in preparation for the burn unit to open.With mild weather conditions forecast over the coming days, visitors may still see minimal fire activity in the range immediately surrounding Strachans Campground and may be impacted by smoke.FFMVIC crews will continue patrolling the burn area into the weekend.Partial Re-opening of visitor areas Wednesday April 24th 17:00hrsGlenelg River RoadChimney Pots car park and walking trackDesignated climbing areas 100 – 104 in Victoria RangeDesignated Rock-Climbing Areas 92- 99 In the Southern end of the Victoria RangeSawmill TrackVictoria Range RoadFortress and Mt Thackeray overnight walkVisitor areas to re-open Thursday April 25th 2pm (depending on conditions)Strachans campgroundOperational closures throughout the coming week:NilNote - Mountain Lion Climbing area remains closed for management purposesFor any further information on the burn operations please contact Wimmera Fire District (03) 8508 1222For bookings or cancellations advice please contact Parks Victoria Information Centre Ph 13 1963For local park information and advice please contact Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre Phone 8427 2058
Victoria Point GR-WIM-CAV-0064FFMVIC have recently completed planned burning operations in the Victoria Range area, 38km north of Cavendish. Ignition has now ceased and crews will new undertake risk treatments in preparation for the burn unit to open.With mild weather conditions forecast over the coming days, visitors may still see minimal fire activity in the range immediately surrounding Strachans Campground and may be impacted by smoke.FFMVIC crews will continue patrolling the burn area into the weekend.Visitor areas to re-open Wed April 24th 5pmGlenelg River RoadChimney Pots carpark and walking trackDesignated Climbing Areas 100 - 104 in the southern end of Victoria RangeDesignated Rock-Climbing Areas 92- 99 in the southern end of the Victoria RangeOperational closures throughout the coming weekGeerak trackFor any further information on the burn operations please contact Wimmera Fire District (03) 8508 1222For bookings or cancellations advice please contact Parks Victoria Information Centre Ph 13 1963For local park information and advice please contact Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre Phone 8427 2058
Stay informed about the Autumn planned burns schedule:Visit & Sign Up: Sign up to Planned Burns Victoria www.vic.gov.au/plannedburns Set up automated notifications about upcoming planned burns on public land near you. There is no charge to sign up to receive text messages.Download: The Vic Emergency App. Set up a watch zone and choose to be notified about planned burns in the ‘alerts’ settingsCall: The Vic Emergency Hotline on 1800 226 226 and request an interpreter or assistance for hearing difficulties via the National Relay Service. IN AN EMERGENCY CALL 000Email: For specialist advice about planned burns in the Wimmera District you can contact Horsham FFMVic Office at wimmera.fuelmanagement@delwp.vic.gov.au or phone the office on (03) 8508 1222.For Information about park closures and park access within Grampians National Park:Visit: the Parks Victoria website: https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/grampians-national-park#change-of-conditionsVisit or call: Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre – 277 Grampians Road Halls Gap, Ph 8427 2058Contact: For bookings and cancellations advice please call Parks Victoria Information Centre 13 1963 or email info@parks.vic.gov.auGrampians National Park - Autumn planned burn season underway
Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park – Autumn Planned Program UnderwayForest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) have commenced the Autumn Planned Burning Program in Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park and surrounding reserves.These planned burns have been nominated and approved as part of the FFMVic three-year Joint Fuel Management Program for the Wimmera Fire District. Each burn has been designated to a year and season, though this may change depending on burn objectives and seasonal conditions. You can view the three-year plan at https://www.ffm.vic.gov.au/bushfire-fuel-and-risk-management/joint-fuel-management-programThe map attached, outlines the burns programmed for this year. Detailing the exact date and time of ignition can be difficult and the final decision to proceed may only be made on the day of the burn - once resources, weather conditions and local fuel moisture levels are deemed suitable. Once a burn is scheduled for ignition, FFMVIC will send out regular notifications.Some of the planned burns this Autumn may involve the temporary closure of visitor sites, roads and campgrounds within Grampians Gariwerd National Park and other reserves. This may include detours or closures of hike in campgrounds along the Grampians Peaks Trail, and other vehicle-based campgrounds.· Closures will be enforced for the duration of ignition and may remain in place for some days. Visitor sites will re-open once the burn is declared safe.· We recommend that you seek information and stay informed about the status of the planned burns scheduled near you.Stay informed about this Autumns planned burns schedule:Visit & Sign Up:Sign up to Planned Burns Victoria to set up automated notifications about upcoming planned burns on public land near you. There is no charge to sign up to receive text messages.
Sign up via Planned Burns Victoria at www.vic.gov.au/plannedburnsDownload: the VicEmergency AppSet up a watch zone and choose to be notified about planned burns in the ‘alerts’ settingsCall: the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226 and request an interpreter or assistance for hearing difficulties via the National Relay ServiceEmail: For specialist advice about planned burns in the Wimmera District you can contact Horsham FFMVic Office at wimmera.fuelmanagement@delwp.vic.gov.au or phone the office on (03) 8508 1222.For Information about park closures and campground bookings within Grampians National Park:Visit the Parks Victoria website: https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/grampians-national-park#change-of-conditionsVisit: Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre – 277 Grampians Road Halls Gap, Ph 8427 2058or for bookings and cancellations advice contact the Parks Victoria Information Centre Ph 13 1963 or email info@parks.vic.gov.au
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