BEST-KEPT SECRET OF THE SCENIC RIM
Cronan Creek Cascades are a thing of pure beauty
They don’t call it the Scenic
Rim for nothing.
Chock full of fabulous pastoral scenes, it’s also home to some of our best hidden waterfalls and secret waterholes.
One of the best – and most accessible – is Cronan Creek Cascades, deep in the heart of Mt Barney National Park.
The falls are located near the end of the Cronan Creek Track, which starts at the Yellow Pinch Reserve car park. A lovely 13km return hike that takes you from open bushland to rainforest, it’s a long walk but not difficult.
There is one steep section near the start and numerous creek crossings, some of which will require you to get your feet wet – so bring spare socks.
Start by heading up the hill towards South Ridge, turning left through the swing gate. When you reach the junction with a sign marking the start of South Ridge, turn left and walk 3.5km along the fire trail.
Near the top of a shady uphill section, listen for the waterfall to your left. If you’re lucky you’ll spot a little rock cairn indicating where to turn off. You’ll need to descend down into the creek (off track) for about 100m until you find it.
If you’re at the end of the fire trail then you’ve gone too far by a few hundred metres – turn around, listen closely and then engage in that little bit of bush bashing. You’ll know you’ve arrived when you see one of the most perfect waterfall swimming holes.
This deep (and cold) pool has a flat underwater rock shelf at both ends, one under the waterfall – allowing you to sit or stand directly under the cascading water. The cliffs and trees provide shade on one side and sunny spots on the other.