Maddens Falls is a stunning cascade waterfall in the rural locality of Darkes Forest within Dharawal National Park, about 50 km south of Sydney.
A short, easy 1 km bushwalk leads visitors through unique upland swamp communities to a viewing platform with beautiful views of the waterfall.
| Maddens Falls Walk | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 2 km (return) |
| Duration: | 1 hour |
| Grade: | Easy |
| Wheel-friendly: | No |
| Dog-friendly: | No |
| Trailhead: | Google Maps |
Getting There
The waterfall is quite easy to drive to. If you’re approaching from the north, follow the old Princes Highway just south of Helensburgh.
Turn onto Darkes Forest Road and continue for 2.5 km until you see the management trail signpost on the left and Glenbernie Orchard on the right side of the road.
There’s a small car park next to the management trail signpost. If it’s full, you can try parking across the road at Glenbernie Orchard.
Below is a map of the walking trail to the waterfall.
Track Notes
The picturesque Maddens Falls is accessible via a short, easy walk along the 10Z Management Trail. Despite its rather plain name, it’s quite an exciting walk!
This trail winds through narrow paths within upland swamp communities, leading to a viewing platform with a stunning view of Maddens Falls.
Most of the track is a raised walkway, thoughtfully designed to protect the delicate swamp vegetation beneath.
The track is easy, and the walkway also makes it very suitable for young children who will enjoy being outdoors in the bush.
Keep an eye out for some local wildlife as you head to the viewing platform. You might spot swamp rats, tree frogs, or even wallabies along the way.
The waterfall flows over large sandstone boulders below, where the creek continues its journey until it joins the Georges River, which eventually empties into Botany Bay.
For those feeling adventurous, there’s a chance to explore the opposite side of the creek. To reach it, you’ll need to cross Maddens Creek at the top of the falls, so expect to get your feet wet.
The views from the other side are quite spectacular, offering a closer perspective of the cascading water.
Just remember that this isn’t an official path, so bring sturdy shoes, as a bit of rock scrambling is involved, and the surface can be quite slippery.
Once you’re finished exploring Maddens Falls, retrace your steps to the road via the same walking trail.
Read our guide on highlights in Dharawal National Park for a complete list of things to do in this unique protected area south of Sydney.
One of our favourite walks here is the Minerva Pool Track, a short bushwalk that leads to a stunning waterhole and small waterfall.
Check out our guide on the most beautiful waterfalls in Sydney for more of these water spectacles in the Greater Sydney area.
