Waterfall Gully (First Falls) - Image 1
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First Falls Waterfall Gully

4.8
·169 reviews·Waterfall Gully, Australia

Experience the breathtaking First Falls and explore scenic hiking trails in Adelaide's lush Waterfall Gully.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

After rain

Most dramatic waterfall flow

CrowdMedium
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Waterfall Gully (First Falls) - Image 1

First Falls Waterfall Gully

Best Time

After rain

Most dramatic waterfall flow

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience the breathtaking First Falls and explore scenic hiking trails in Adelaide's lush Waterfall Gully.

4.8
(169 reviews)

"A beautiful, easily accessible spot featuring a scenic waterfall and lush surroundings."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Trails can be steep and slippery, especially after rain. Good grip is essential for a safe hike.

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

Especially if you plan to hike to Mount Lofty. Stay hydrated on the trails.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

First Falls

First Falls

Waterfall Gully

Witness the powerful cascade, especially vibrant after rain. An easily accessible natural wonder.

Waterfall Gully Trails

Waterfall Gully Trails

Waterfall Gully

Explore scenic paths leading to Mount Lofty Summit and beyond. Perfect for a refreshing hike.

Utopia Cafe

Utopia Cafe

Near First Falls entrance

A popular spot to refuel with coffee and snacks after your exploration.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for the Falls

Visit right after heavy rain for the most dramatic waterfall views! Weekdays are best to avoid crowds, especially if you're aiming for a peaceful hike. Weekends can get busy, and parking might be a challenge.

Beyond the First Fall

While the First Fall is easily accessible, don't miss the chance to explore further. Trails lead to Mount Lofty Summit and other scenic spots. Pack water and wear sturdy shoes for longer hikes.

Best Times

When
After rain
Why
Most dramatic waterfall flow
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful hike
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

@waterwayportrait workshop this week at beautiful First Falls Waterfall Gully @naturefestivalsa Submit your photo to be part of this project via link on my profile page ✌🏼
laurafranceswills
72 likes • 1.1K views

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Trails can be steep and slippery, especially after rain. Good grip is essential for a safe hike. Reddit

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

Especially if you plan to hike to Mount Lofty. Stay hydrated on the trails. Reddit

Lovely short wander to first and second falls at Waterfall Gully. Atmospheric just below the clouds. Rainy day kept the crowds away #waterfalls #waterfallgully #adelaidehills #southaustralia
trainorwalk
35 likes • 491 views
Did you know that South Australia is home to some beautiful waterfalls... Some are very easily accessible even for the kids.... Featured here is Waterfall Gully in Adelaide - First & Second Falls #adelaide #southaustralia #australia #waterfall #waterfalls #nature #waterfallhike #booysenadventuresdownunder
booysenadventuresdownunder
5 likes • 233 views

🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky

Arrive early on weekends or holidays, as parking spots fill up quickly. Reddit

📸 Capture the Moment

The falls are stunning, especially after rain. Bring your camera for breathtaking shots. TikTok

reddit.com

Waterfall gully to Mt Lofty walk question

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Trails can be steep and slippery, especially after rain. Good grip is essential for a safe hike. Reddit

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

Especially if you plan to hike to Mount Lofty. Stay hydrated on the trails. Reddit

🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky

Arrive early on weekends or holidays, as parking spots fill up quickly. Reddit

📸 Capture the Moment

The falls are stunning, especially after rain. Bring your camera for breathtaking shots. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.8
(169 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Waterfall Gully's stunning natural beauty, especially the powerful First Falls after rain. The accessible trails and proximity to Mount Lofty are major draws. Some note that parking can be limited on busy days.

"After two months of entering into the raining seasons in Adelaide, I visited this Waterfall Gully today (27 July 25).

The river was full of raging water after heavy raining yesterday, so I reckoned I might have witnessed the most beautiful Waterfall Gully First Fall with such a turbulent water fall 😍

Visiting this Waterfall was really simple and enjoyable. After I parked my car without waiting, there was a decent public toilet and a popular cafe called Utopia. Then I just walked along the river upwards, less than 5 minutes I arrived at the First Fall. If you like hiking, there are a few different routes available. Based on the map sign, I think the following routes are available:

1. Mount Lofty Summit
2. Cleland Widelife Park
3. Crafter
4. Mount Lofty Botanic Garden

I will definitely return again to finish one of these popular trails, rather than just visit the Waterfall Gully alone."

Pat Chung

"A beautiful, easily accessible spot featuring a scenic waterfall and lush surroundings. Ideal for hiking, especially the popular trail to Mount Lofty. Can get busy and parking is limited on weekends. Great for nature lovers. 🫶"

SHERPA YANG DOLMU

"There’s a trail between the waterfall and Mount Lofty summit. Some parts are quite steep but not hard for an average fit adult. Make sure to bring water."

Guang Yang

What People Like

Spectacular waterfalls after rain
Accessible trails
Proximity to Mount Lofty

What People Dislike

Limited parking on weekends

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Waterfall Gully is easily accessible from Adelaide city. You can drive directly to the car park, which is usually free. Public transport options are limited, so driving is the most convenient way to reach the falls. Instagram

Yes, there is a car park near the entrance to the falls. However, it can get very busy, especially on weekends and after rain. Arriving early is recommended. Reddit

Yes, there's a popular trail connecting Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty Summit. It's a moderately challenging hike, and some parts are quite steep. Reddit

Public transport to Waterfall Gully is not very direct. While buses run to the general area, you might need to walk a significant distance. Driving is highly recommended for ease of access. Instagram

For workshops like those held at First Falls, driving is usually the most practical option to ensure you arrive on time and with your gear. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Waterfall Gully is a natural attraction and does not have an entrance fee. You can visit and explore the falls and trails for free. Instagram

Waterfall Gully is an outdoor natural area and is generally accessible at all times. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment. Instagram

No booking is required as there is no entry fee. You can visit anytime. However, if you are attending a specific event or workshop, check with the organizer for any booking requirements. TikTok

Generally, there are no specific restrictions, but always be mindful of the natural environment. Stick to marked trails and avoid littering. Check local council advisories for any temporary closures due to weather. Instagram

The path to the First Falls is relatively easy to access from the car park. However, the trails beyond can be steep and uneven, making them challenging for those with mobility issues. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The falls are most impressive after significant rainfall, so visiting during or shortly after the rainy season (winter in Adelaide) is ideal for seeing them at their most powerful. Reddit

You can reach the First Falls within a 5-minute walk from the car park. If you plan to hike further, allow several hours. Reddit

Yes, there are public toilets available near the car park and the Utopia Cafe. Reddit

Waterfall Gully is a starting point for trails leading to Mount Lofty Summit, Cleland Wildlife Park, and the Mount Lofty Botanic Garden, offering a full day of exploration. Reddit

The walk to the First Falls is generally easy and suitable for families. Longer hikes might be challenging for very young children, but the natural beauty is enjoyable for all ages. Instagram

🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining

Yes, the popular Utopia Cafe is located near the First Falls entrance, offering refreshments and snacks. Reddit

While there aren't designated picnic areas, you can find spots to enjoy a packed lunch, especially if you venture a bit further along the trails. Remember to take all your rubbish with you. Instagram

Utopia Cafe is known for serving coffee and light meals, making it a convenient stop for visitors. Reddit

Besides Utopia Cafe, you'll find more dining options at the nearby Mount Lofty Summit or in the surrounding Adelaide Hills towns. Reddit

It's a good idea to have a light meal or snack before embarking on longer hikes. Utopia Cafe is a convenient place to grab something before or after your walk. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The First Falls itself is a prime subject, especially when the water flow is strong. The surrounding lush greenery and the trails offer many scenic shots. TikTok

Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light, but the dramatic effect of the falls after rain is often the main draw, regardless of the time of day. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the falls and the landscape. A tripod can be useful for long exposures to create a silky water effect. TikTok

Yes, workshops focusing on nature and landscape photography are sometimes held at Waterfall Gully, like those mentioned by creators. TikTok

The spray from the waterfall can make lenses wet, so a lens cloth is essential. Also, the trails can be uneven, so carrying gear requires care. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Waterfall Gully is a great spot for families looking for an accessible nature outing. The walk to the First Falls is short and relatively easy, making it manageable for younger children. The natural beauty and the sound of the water are captivating for kids. Instagram

For families who enjoy a bit more adventure, the lower sections of the trails can be explored. It's advisable to bring snacks and drinks, and ensure children wear appropriate footwear for any walking. While the full hike to Mount Lofty might be too strenuous for very young children, the initial part of the gully offers plenty of enjoyment. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts & Hikers

For those seeking a physical challenge, Waterfall Gully offers direct access to the popular Mount Lofty Summit trail. This hike is a favorite among locals for its invigorating climb and rewarding views. Be prepared for steep sections and bring plenty of water. Reddit

The entire network of trails provides opportunities for varied workouts. Whether you're aiming for a brisk walk or a more strenuous hike, the natural terrain and scenic beauty make it an enjoyable experience. Consider exploring different routes to vary your training. Reddit

📸 Photography Buffs

Waterfall Gully is a paradise for photographers, especially after rain when the First Falls are at their most spectacular. The dramatic water flow and the surrounding verdant landscape offer endless shooting possibilities. TikTok

Experiment with long exposures to capture the ethereal movement of the water. Don't forget to pack a wide-angle lens and a tripod for the best results. The trails also provide opportunities for capturing intimate nature shots and scenic vistas. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Allure of Waterfall Gully's Cascades

Waterfall Gully is renowned for its natural beauty, particularly its series of waterfalls. The First Falls is the most accessible and often the most dramatic, especially after periods of rain when the river swells. The sound and sight of the water cascading down create a truly immersive experience. Many visitors are drawn to the sheer power and beauty of these natural formations, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking a connection with nature. Instagram

Beyond the First Falls, the gully is laced with numerous other cascades and smaller waterfalls, particularly as you ascend the trails towards Mount Lofty. These hidden gems offer quieter, more intimate encounters with the water's journey. The lush, green surroundings, especially during the cooler months, add to the picturesque scenery, making it a photographer's delight and a refreshing escape from the city. Instagram

For those who appreciate the raw power of nature, visiting after heavy rainfall is highly recommended. The river transforms into a raging torrent, showcasing the full force of the falls. This dramatic display is a key reason why many travelers seek out Waterfall Gully, eager to witness its most spectacular moments. Reddit

Hiking Trails and Mount Lofty Connection

Waterfall Gully serves as a gateway to a network of hiking trails, the most famous of which leads to Mount Lofty Summit. This popular route offers a rewarding challenge for fitness enthusiasts, with some sections being quite steep. The journey through the gully and up the ascent provides varied scenery, from the gentle flow of the creek to panoramic views as you gain elevation. Reddit

These trails are well-trodden and offer a fantastic opportunity for exercise and enjoying the natural landscape of the Adelaide Hills. Visitors are advised to wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water, especially for the longer treks. The trails are generally well-maintained, but can become slippery after rain, so caution is advised. Reddit

Beyond Mount Lofty, maps indicate routes to other points of interest like Cleland Wildlife Park and the Mount Lofty Botanic Garden. This makes Waterfall Gully a versatile destination, allowing visitors to tailor their experience from a short stroll to a full day of exploration and hiking. Reddit

Photography Opportunities

Waterfall Gully is a dream destination for photographers, offering a variety of stunning subjects. The First Falls itself is a prime focus, especially when the water is flowing strongly after rain. Capturing the movement and power of the cascade can be achieved with techniques like long exposure photography, creating a silky smooth effect on the water. TikTok

The surrounding lush greenery and the winding trails also provide ample opportunities for landscape and nature photography. The interplay of light and shadow through the trees, the textures of the rocks, and the vibrant flora all contribute to compelling images. Photographers often recommend visiting during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for the best natural light. TikTok

Creators have highlighted workshops focused on nature photography at Waterfall Gully, indicating its appeal to those looking to hone their skills. Essential gear includes a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the falls and landscape, and a tripod for stable shots and creative effects. Being prepared for potential spray from the waterfall with a lens cloth is also a practical tip for photographers. TikTok

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