MacKenzie Falls is more than just a famous spot in the Grampians; it’s one of the few waterfalls in Victoria that flows year-round, thanks to its steady supply from Lake Wartook.
Dropping 30 meters into a deep pool below, MacKenzie Falls is a favourite stop for over a million people who visit the Grampians annually.
In this guide, I’ll take you step-by-step through the best ways to see the falls, starting with a wheelchair-accessible walk to the Bluff Lookout (MacKenzie Falls Lookout).
From there, I’ll guide you to the base of the falls, with a quick stop at Broken Falls, and even suggest a side trip to Fish Falls for a quieter experience.
Read on to ensure you capture every highlight of this must-see waterfall in Grampians National Park.
How To Get To MacKenzie Falls
MacKenzie Falls is located within the stunning Grampians National Park in Victoria, Australia. It’s about a 25-minute drive from Halls Gap, the nearest town, making it a convenient stop for visitors exploring the park.
The MacKenzie Falls carpark is situated off Mt Victory Road and it has plenty of spaces, picnic tables, and toilets, making it a convenient place to start your walk.
The carpark is the starting point for various walking trails, including the lookout point and the descent to the base of the falls.
MacKenzie Falls Trail Overview
MacKenzie Falls offers 4 distinct walks, each with stunning views of the waterfalls and the surrounding MacKenzie Gorge.
Whether you’re looking for an easy stroll or a more challenging hike, there’s something for everyone.
- MacKenzie Falls Lookouts (1.75 km return)
This easy, 1.75 km return walk takes you through eucalyptus forest, leading to breathtaking views of MacKenzie Falls and the surrounding gorge. The track is wheelchair accessible and suitable for most fitness levels, offering a rewarding experience without too much effort. - Broken Falls (390 m return)
A short, 390 m return walk provides access to several viewing platforms overlooking Broken Falls. The path is easy and flat, making it a perfect option for those looking to take in picturesque falls framed by rock pools and boulders without too much exertion. - MacKenzie Falls Base (1.16 km return)
This 1.16 km return trail is the main highlight of this area. Descending to the base of the falls involves a walk down steep steps. The climb back can be exhausting, but the effort is well worth it for the dramatic views at the bottom of the waterfall. - Zumsteins (6.9 km return via Fish Falls)
At 6.9 km return, this extended hike takes you from the base of MacKenzie Falls, meandering past Fish Falls and following the MacKenzie River to the historic Zumsteins site. This trail is perfect for those looking for a quieter, more peaceful hiking experience, away from the crowds.
In this guide, I’ll take you first to MacKenzie Falls Lookout, followed by a descent to the base of the falls with a stop at Broken Falls and Cranages Lookout.
From the base of MacKenzie Falls, I’ll walk along the MacKenzie River toward Zumsteins, with a final stop at Fish Falls.
Unfortunately, I didn’t have time to complete the entire Zumsteins trail, but Fish Falls offers a perfect conclusion to the hike.
MacKenzie Falls Lookout (The Bluff Lookout)
I started my visit with a leisurely stroll leading to the MacKenzie Falls Lookout, also known as The Bluff Lookout.
The lookout is fully wheelchair-accessible, and the 1.75 km return walk is on a flat, well-paved path, making it suitable for strollers, prams, and visitors of all abilities.
From the lookout, you’ll see the falls in their full glory, with the MacKenzie River flowing down a steep, black rock face.
It’s an excellent spot for photography, offering a great introduction to the falls before venturing further.
One thing to keep in mind, however, is that the waterfall is relatively distant from the viewing platform.
If you’re a photographer aiming to capture close-up shots, make sure to bring a lens with a longer reach to get the best possible images.
Heading to Broken Falls
After soaking in the views from The MacKenzie Falls Lookout, make your way toward Broken Falls.
This lesser-visited waterfall offers a peaceful vantage point over the MacKenzie River.
The 390 m return walk to the lookout is very easy and wheelchair accessible, but unfortunately, the view from the platform is somewhat hindered by trees.
Despite the partial obstruction, it’s still a worthwhile stop before descending to the base of MacKenzie Falls.
Descending to the Base of MacKenzie Falls
Next, prepare for the steep descent to the base of MacKenzie Falls. This section of the hike is more challenging, involving a long staircase with over 250 steps.
But before tackling the stairs, make a stop at Cranages Lookout. Built in the 1960s, this vantage point offers sweeping views of the surrounding cliffs and top of MacKenzie Falls.
The lookout was named after Roy Cranage, an influential local advocate for expanding the Grampians National Park.
After taking in the historic site, continue down to the base of the falls.
Once at the base, you’ll be met with the raw power of the falls, with the mist cooling the air and the thundering sound of crashing water echoing in your ears.
The base of MacKenzie Falls is one of the most picturesque spots in the Grampians, perfect for capturing stunning photos.
Many visitors consider the climb back up to be challenging, so if you’ve decided that this is your final stop and won’t be heading toward Zumsteins, be sure to take your time on the ascent.
Optional Extension: Fish Falls
For those with extra time and energy, the hike to Fish Falls offers a quieter, more tranquil experience.
This 2.4 km return walk (distance from the base of the MacKenzie Falls) follows the MacKenzie River downstream, leading to a smaller but equally beautiful waterfall.
The falls themselves are smaller, but the surrounding scenery along the river is serene and worth the extra effort.
Adding this extension is a great way to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful end to your day of exploring.
If you have more time than I did during my visit, consider extending your hike from the base of Fish Falls and continue along the MacKenzie River toward Zumsteins.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, a visit to MacKenzie Falls and its surrounding trails is an essential experience for anyone exploring Grampians National Park, and the waterfall undoubtedly lives up to its reputation.
As the most popular destination in the Grampians, you can expect a bustling car park and trails filled with fellow hikers.
However, don’t let the crowds deter you from experiencing this breathtaking natural wonder.
Having witnessed numerous stunning waterfalls in Iceland, I can confidently say that MacKenzie Falls stands out as an impressive sight in its own right.
It is a true treasure of the Grampians that should not be missed!
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