Leliyn (Edith Falls)
Leliyn (Edith Falls) is a breathtaking natural oasis in Nitmiluk National Park, offering stunning waterfalls and crystal-clear plunge pools perfect fo...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer crowds
Leliyn (Edith Falls)
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Leliyn (Edith Falls) is a breathtaking natural oasis in Nitmiluk National Park, offering stunning waterfalls and crystal-clear plunge pools perfect for a refreshing swim.
"The upper pool at Edith Falls makes the hike totally worth it for a refreshing swim!"
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Essential for the rocky trails. Many visitors recommend good walking shoes for the loop walk.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
The NT heat is intense! Stay hydrated on your hikes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Upper Pool Swim
Upper pools
Crystal-clear waters perfect for a refreshing dip after a scenic hike. A true oasis in the Top End heat.
Lower Pool Plunge
Lower main pool
The largest and most accessible plunge pool, ideal for a cooling swim with stunning waterfall views.
Leliyn Loop Walk
Circuit trail
A rewarding 2.6km loop offering diverse scenery, from rocky ascents to lush paperbark forests.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Hike
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Essential for the rocky trails. Many visitors recommend good walking shoes for the loop walk.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
The NT heat is intense! Stay hydrated on your hikes.
🏊♀️ Swim Smart
Be aware of current strength and 'biting fish'. Keep moving your legs!
☀️ Arrive Early
Beat the heat and the crowds for a more peaceful experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Essential for the rocky trails. Many visitors recommend good walking shoes for the loop walk.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
The NT heat is intense! Stay hydrated on your hikes.
🏊♀️ Swim Smart
Be aware of current strength and 'biting fish'. Keep moving your legs!
☀️ Arrive Early
Beat the heat and the crowds for a more peaceful experience.
🧊 Frozen Mango Treat
Grab an ice cream or frozen mango at the cafe after your walk.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Leliyn (Edith Falls) for its stunning natural beauty and refreshing swimming opportunities, especially the upper pools. The walking tracks are considered rewarding, offering beautiful scenery. Some minor drawbacks include the potential for 'biting fish' and the intensity of the heat and rocky terrain on the hikes.
"Beautiful, did the loop walk on my own arriving just after sunrise, going clockwise. Very peaceful and lush, rocky and bit of a work out until you kind of get to the top then a pretty crusty walk from then on. The upper pool was beautiful, very still. The boys swam here the afternoon before, said it was warmer than the lower main pool. Nice view as you start to walk down, bridge for a bit of bird spotting at the end and of course the big main pool. Toilets and kiosk at the end before the parking. Whole thing with decent stop at upper pool was 2h"
mia Wells
"The Falls are not far from the access road. Water is cool and refreshing. Deep water with no place to stand except on entry. Some biting fish so keep your legs moving."
Ronda Wakeley
"Beautiful spot - great swimming especially at the top pool - 1.6km walk."
NL
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Leliyn (Edith Falls) is located within Nitmiluk National Park, about a 1-hour drive (60km) north of Katherine. You can drive your own vehicle or join a tour. Some free camping options are available nearby. 
Yes, Leliyn (Edith Falls) is a key attraction within Nitmiluk National Park, offering beautiful waterfalls and swimming opportunities.
While possible, it's a long day trip (approx. 4.5-5 hours drive each way). Many travelers prefer to stay closer to Katherine or Kakadu to fully enjoy the area.
Driving is the most common and flexible way to reach Leliyn (Edith Falls). The roads are generally well-maintained, but check conditions during the wet season.
Yes, there are toilets and a kiosk located near the main parking area, offering refreshments like ice cream and frozen mango.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Nitmiluk National Park, including Leliyn (Edith Falls), typically requires a park pass. Check the official Parks Australia website for current fees and options.
The park is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, it's always best to check the official Nitmiluk National Park website for any seasonal closures or specific access times.
Yes, swimming is permitted in the designated pools, particularly the lower and upper pools. Be mindful of any crocodile warnings, though the risk is generally considered low in these specific swimming areas.
Yes, families can enjoy the accessible lower pool and shorter walks. The upper pool requires a bit more of a scramble, but is rewarding.
During the wet season, access may be restricted due to flooding. Always check park alerts before your visit. Crocodile warnings are also in place, so adhere to signage.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The Leliyn Loop Walk (2.6km) is highly recommended, offering access to both upper and lower pools. A shorter 1km walk to the upper pool is also available.
The walk to the upper pools can take around 1km (one way), involving some rocky scrambling. The full loop walk is approximately 2.6km.
The water is described as cool and refreshing, especially in the upper pools. Some visitors note the upper pool can be warmer than the main lower pool.
While freshwater crocodiles are present in the Northern Territory, the risk in the designated swimming areas at Leliyn (Edith Falls) is generally considered very low. Always heed any signage.
Expect lush paperbark and pandanus trees, stunning rock formations, and crystal-clear water cascading into beautiful plunge pools.
📸 📸 Photography
The views from the upper pools, the cascading water of the main falls, and the surrounding lush vegetation offer fantastic photographic opportunities. Capture the reflections in the calm waters.
Early morning light provides soft, beautiful illumination and fewer crowds. Midday sun can be harsh, but can also create dramatic contrasts.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check the Nitmiluk National Park regulations regarding drones before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive scenery. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water. Protect your gear from humidity and potential splashes.
Look for reflections in the water, the textures of the rocks, and the vibrant green foliage. The contrast between the water and the arid landscape is striking.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The 800m return walk to this pool is manageable for most children. For slightly older or more adventurous kids, the 1km walk to the Upper Pools can be a fun challenge, rewarding them with a beautiful swimming spot. +1 Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, and consider the cafe for a treat like an ice cream or frozen mango after your adventures. 🚗 Budget Travelers & Campers
+1 This allows you to immerse yourself in the environment without significant accommodation costs. Pack your own food and drinks to save on expenses at the kiosk. 🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
+1 The 1km walk to the upper pools is also rewarding for those seeking a shorter, yet still scenic, trek. Nature lovers will appreciate the lush vegetation, the sound of cascading water, and the chance to spot local wildlife. The Jatbula Trail offers a more extensive hiking experience for those looking for a multi-day adventure within Nitmiluk National Park. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails: Leliyn (Edith Falls) Walks
+2For those seeking a shorter option, a 1km return walk leads directly to the upper pools. This path is also somewhat rocky but offers a quicker route to a refreshing swim. Some travelers mention a 'goat track' on the way down from the upper pools, which can be steep.
+1 Regardless of the chosen path, remember to pack ample water, especially during the warmer months, as the Top End sun can be intense. Wildlife spotting is also a bonus on these trails. Keep an eye out for various bird species and, if you're lucky, you might even spot freshwater crocodile tracks near the water's edge during the late dry season.
The Allure of the Pools: Swimming at Leliyn (Edith Falls)
+1The Upper Pools offer a more secluded and arguably more picturesque swimming experience. Reaching them involves a bit more effort, often described as a scramble over rocks.
+1 Visitors rave about the crystal-clear water and the tranquil atmosphere here. Some note that the upper pool can be slightly warmer than the main lower pool, making it a comfortable option. While swimming is a highlight, it's important to be aware of your surroundings. Some visitors have reported encountering 'biting fish' in the water, so keeping your legs moving is advised.
Beyond the Falls: Exploring Nitmiluk National Park
+1For the truly adventurous, the Jatbula Trail is a multi-day hike that passes through diverse landscapes and leads to various waterholes, including Sweetwater Pool and eventually Leliyn (Edith Falls). This challenging trek is a significant undertaking, often requiring permits and careful planning, but offers an unparalleled immersion in the Top End's wilderness.
Beyond hiking and swimming, Nitmiluk National Park is a significant cultural site for the Jawoyn people, the traditional custodians of the land. Understanding and respecting this cultural heritage is an integral part of the visitor experience.
Whether you're doing a short visit to Edith Falls or embarking on a longer exploration of Nitmiluk, the park promises breathtaking scenery and a deep connection with the Australian outback.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit