When I think about all the walks I’ve done in the Blue Mountains, there’s this one gem that always stands out in my mind – the South Lawson Five Waterfall Circuit Walk.
It’s like the ultimate “minimal effort, maximum rewards” hiking experience where, in just 3.1 kilometers, you’re treated to the sights of 5 different waterfalls: Cataract, Upper Cataract, Federal, Junction, and Adeline waterfalls.
What makes it so special, you wonder?
Well, it’s a bit of a local secret, favoured by residents enjoying leisurely strolls with their furry companions. It’s one of the rare walks in Blue Mountains where dogs are welcome, adding to its appeal.
And if you choose to explore it after a good rain, this trail transforms into something magical.
Sure, there might be some mud along the way, but the spectacle of water cascading down the rocks creates an awe-inspiring sight that’s truly unmissable.
Ready to explore all that this circuit has to offer? Let’s delve right in!
How To Get To Lawson Waterfall Circuit
Getting There By Car:
To start your South Lawson Waterfall Circuit Walk, you have 2 options for parking, both located on Honour Avenue:
- Northern Honour Avenue Car Park (click here for Google Maps pin)
- Southern Honour Avenue Car Park (click here for Google Maps pin)
I opted for the South Honour Avenue car park, but keep in mind that parking spaces at both locations are limited.
Not to worry, though—there’s ample free street parking nearby, and no time restrictions to bother about.
If you’re driving via Great Western Highway from Sydney, turn left into Orient Street before the Lawson Baptist Church and then proceed along Honour Avenue for about a 800m until you reach the corner of Honour Avenue and Livingstone Street (that’s the Northern Car Park).
Alternatively, drive a bit further until you get to the corner of Honour Avenue and Cataract Street for the Southern Car Park.
Getting There by Train:
Good news is that you don’t need a car to enjoy this walk. Simply catch a train from Sydney to Lawson Station. From the train station you’ll be walking 1.1km along Honour Avenue until you reach the car park situated at the intersection of Honour Avenue and Livingstone Street.
That’s where the adventure begins, and all it takes is a leisurely stroll from the station.
Lawson Waterfall Circuit Trail Overview
This short circuit leads you through picturesque scenery with five charming waterfalls, inviting you to take out your camera and capture their beauty.
- Distance: 3.1 km circuit
- Time: 1-2 hours
- Total Ascent: 117m
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate, with some steep sections near the waterfalls and at the track’s start and end
- Pet Policy: Furry companions are allowed on this trail
Getting Started & Upper Cataract Falls
Starting your walk from the South Honour Avenue car park offers a helpful map (pictured above) at the trailhead, guiding you to discover the charming waterfalls along your route.
Taking a moment to look at this map can be really helpful, giving you a preview of the exact location of each waterfall and helping you get your bearings straight.
Keep in mind that getting to some waterfalls involves taking smaller trails that break away from the main path, resulting in a few junctions. If you’re new here, these intersections can be an entertaining puzzle to tackle.
Your trek begins with an 800-meter hike toward the Upper Cataract Falls.
As you make your way, you’ll cross a small metal bridge and when you get to the intersection point with a signage, make sure to turn left (it will say Waterfall Loop Walk).
Continuing along the trail, the path will become a tad steeper and muddier.
At some point you’ll have to take a right turn and venture about 50 meters off the main trail to your right. That’s where you’ll discover the first gem: Upper Cataract Falls.
It’s a perfect spot to take a breather and capture some memorable shots.
Lower Cataract Falls
Further down, you’ll stumble upon Lower Cataract Falls. It’s got a decent-sized pool at the bottom, perfect for a refreshing dip. On a rainy day, it must be a kid’s paradise for some good splashing around.
In addition,these falls boast a little secret. Just to the right of the falls, there’s a pathway that guides you to small caves nestled behind the waterfall.
What makes these caves so special?
They often house a colony of glow worms! While I missed exploring this gem at night, it’s definitely on my list for a future visit.
Federal Falls
As we continued walking, the bush thickened, painting a vivid picture with lush greens and thriving maidenhair ferns.
Hidden among the dense foliage was a less obvious path leading straight ahead to Federal Falls.
It’s pretty easy to pass by, but trust me, it’s well worth discovering.
So keep in mind that at this junction you need to turn left to find Federal Falls—make sure not to miss it!
Just a short 250-meter stroll past the junction, the trail goes gently down through the bush, and you’ll spot a lovely open area leading to Federal Falls.
Federal Falls earned its place as my favourite waterfall along the trail. It wasn’t just the gorgeous setting; the proximity to the waterfall and secluded atmosphere was an incredible experience!
Federal Falls is an absolute must-see along this trail!
Junction Falls
After snapping a bunch of photos, it was time to venture towards the next destination: Junction Falls.
This one doesn’t require much detective work like Federal Falls did; there are clear signs leading straight to it.
Junction Falls is quite a sight!
Here the water cascades in multiple streams over a multitude of sandstone shelves, creating a terraced watery spectacle.
Right by the bridge, nestled close to Junction Falls, lies another hidden gem—a waterfall not listed on Google Maps or any other trail finder app.
Locals often refer to it as Leslie Falls, considering it the 5th waterfall on the trail.
What sets it apart?
Look out for a fallen tree reaching from the base to the midsection of the waterfall – it serves as a clear and easily noticeable marker.
Adeline Falls
Moving further north leads us to the final waterfall, Adeline Falls. Brace yourself for a bit of a climb—the path mostly heads upward from here.
Upon reaching Adeline Falls, get ready for another stunning sight. Despite its considerable height, the lower segment of the waterfall steals the spotlight with its captivating beauty.
The place has an enchanting aura—surrounded by ferns, shaded by trees, creating a picturesque and serene ambiance.
Going Back to the Southern Honour Ave Car Park
As you make your way back to the Southern Honour Avenue Car Park from Adeline Falls, you’ll encounter a few steps ahead, then take a right at the next junction.
If you prefer returning to your car via the road, continue straight at the junction and take a right when you reach the street level.
If you’re an experienced hiker, there’s potential to explore more of the Blue Mountains and even tackle another trail on the same day – this walk could be your warm up session. 😉
Personally, I absolutely loved it!
I’m definitely planning to return after a period of heavy rain to take few more amazing photos… and maybe even during the night to catch a glimpse of the glow worms!
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
How long does the trail take?
- 1-2 hours or longer (depending on how many photos you want take).
What about signage and trail quality?
- There are numerous trail signs, but some small side-trails to the waterfalls lack signage.
How difficult is the trail?
- It ranges from easy to moderate, due to potential slipperiness.
What should I wear?
- Wear good hiking shoes or boots, as it can get wet and muddy. Waterproof shoes are a good idea. Long pants and sturdy hiking socks are also recommended.
What essentials should I carry?
- Carry water, sunscreen, a hat, snacks, and insect repellent.
Is it the trail child-friendly?
- Yes, I’ve seen lots of children on the trail.
Is the trail wheelchair accessible?
- Unfortunately, the trail is not wheelchair accessible.
Can I swim on the trail?
- You can cool your feet with a quick dip, but the pools are not deep enough for swimming.
When is the best time to visit?
- After rain, if you don’t mind getting mud on your shoes.
Is there phone service?
- Most networks should have coverage since the trail doesn’t take you too deep into the bush.
Can I bring my dog?
- Absolutely!
