The spectacular Gibraltar Falls are just a short drive from Canberra. Photo: Jack Mohr.
Did you know that the ACT has its own readily accessible waterfall just a short drive from the city’s fringes? Gibraltar Falls in the ACT’s Namadgi National Park is one of the largest waterfalls in the region, and the lookout offers dizzying views down the 50-metre drop of the waterfall itself and over the valleys and rivers below. The secluded and peaceful natural wonder at the edge of a pine forest is the perfect spot for a picnic, and best of all, it won’t cost you a cent.
Why you’ll love it
- Discover a hidden gem in Canberra’s natural landscape. It’s only a short walk to get from the nearest carpark to Gibraltar Falls, and you can often find yourself alone in the magnificent setting.
- Make the most of the photo ops. You can get right up close to the natural beauty of the waterfall, the rock face, and the long drop down. See if your snaps can capture just how impressive – and high – the waterfall is.
- Enjoy a picnic with a view. When you get to the car park, you’ll find picnic tables, toilets and the path to the lookout. It is a comfortable walk of less than 15 minutes return.
- Take a dip. If you’re keen, it is possible to swim in the pools near the lookout at the top of the falls. Be careful though – the water isn’t fast flowing but the rocks can be slippery and icy, and there are warning signs up.
- Discover Indigenous history. The area is not only bursting with natural beauty, but also has some heritage aspects. There is a long history of Indigenous habitation in the area, and a rock shelter and stone artefacts can be found around the Gibraltar Valley.
Combine your visit with a trip to Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, the Deep Space Tracking Station or Tharwa while you’re out that way. Or make a day of it and explore the walk to Gibraltar Peak.
Gibraltar Falls carpark. Photo: Canberra Day Trips.
Getting there
Follow the Tuggeranong Parkway south from Canberra until it turns into Drakeford Drive and reaches the suburb of Gordon. Once in Gordon, take Woodcock Drive and then Point Hut Road until you reach Tidbinbilla Road on the right. After 6km, turn left into Corin Road. After another 6km you should see the sign to the Gibraltar Falls car park.
When to go
The falls are particularly spectacular in full sun, so wait for a clear day if you can. The waterfall is especially impressive after it has rained. Fog can sometimes make driving to the falls difficult on still mornings in winter.
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