First Falls Waterfall Gully
Experience the breathtaking First Falls and explore scenic hiking trails in Adelaide's lush Waterfall Gully.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Most dramatic waterfall flow
First Falls Waterfall Gully
Best Time
Most dramatic waterfall flow
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the breathtaking First Falls and explore scenic hiking trails in Adelaide's lush Waterfall Gully.
"A beautiful, easily accessible spot featuring a scenic waterfall and lush surroundings."
👟 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
First Falls
Waterfall Gully
Witness the powerful cascade, especially vibrant after rain. An easily accessible natural wonder.
Waterfall Gully Trails
Waterfall Gully
Explore scenic paths leading to Mount Lofty Summit and beyond. Perfect for a refreshing hike.

Utopia Cafe
Near First Falls entrance
A popular spot to refuel with coffee and snacks after your exploration.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Falls
Beyond the First Fall
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 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.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Arrive early on weekends or holidays, as parking spots fill up quickly.
📸 Capture the Moment
The falls are stunning, especially after rain. Bring your camera for breathtaking shots.
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.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Especially if you plan to hike to Mount Lofty. Stay hydrated on the trails.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Arrive early on weekends or holidays, as parking spots fill up quickly.
📸 Capture the Moment
The falls are stunning, especially after rain. Bring your camera for breathtaking shots.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🏞️ 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.
You can reach the First Falls within a 5-minute walk from the car park. If you plan to hike further, allow several hours.
Yes, there are public toilets available near the car park and the Utopia Cafe.
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.
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.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, the popular Utopia Cafe is located near the First Falls entrance, offering refreshments and snacks.
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.
Utopia Cafe is known for serving coffee and light meals, making it a convenient stop for visitors.
Besides Utopia Cafe, you'll find more dining options at the nearby Mount Lofty Summit or in the surrounding Adelaide Hills towns.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
Yes, workshops focusing on nature and landscape photography are sometimes held at Waterfall Gully, like those mentioned by creators.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🚶♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts & Hikers
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.
📸 Photography Buffs
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Waterfall Gully's Cascades
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.
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.
Hiking Trails and Mount Lofty Connection
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.
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.
Photography Opportunities
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit