Horseshoe Falls

Shapely falls you can walk behind on a short Hazelbrook loop
Horseshoe Falls, Blue Mountains National Park
InsideBlue Mountains National Park

Overview

A small, shapely cascade tucked in the Hazelbrook bushland, Horseshoe Falls lives up to its name with a curved drop and a wide sandstone overhang you can walk behind. It’s not a thundering giant, but it’s charming, photogenic, and often quieter than the headline spots.

The Walk & Highlights

A compact network of tracks links three waterfalls—Horseshoe Falls, Burgess Falls, and Glow Worm Nook Falls—so you can see the main trio in about two hours. Expect mossy rock ledges, a shallow creek, and shaded forest that feels far from town despite the short approach. After Burgess Falls, a higher “quick return” track loops you back more efficiently.

Logistics & Access

Signed access points sit by a small reserve a little past 66 Alexander Avenue, with additional roadside parking near 81 Oaklands Road in Hazelbrook. Parking is limited and informal, so arrive with a plan B and be considerate of residents. There are no facilities—no toilets, shops, or water—so come prepared.

Wildlife & After‑Dark Bonus

You’ll hear and see native birdlife along the creek. The nearby Glow Worm Nook Falls can put on a show after dark; bring a torch and keep light aimed at the ground to minimize disturbance.

Trail Conditions

This is a genuine bush track: expect dirt, rock steps, and sections that turn muddy and slick after rain. The path beneath the falls can be especially wet and unstable. Stay on signed tracks—hidden cliff edges are a real hazard.

Best Time to Visit

Water flow is best after recent rain. Weekends can see a bump in visitors, but weekdays and earlier starts are usually calmer. The area is accessible around the clock; arrive in late afternoon if you plan to stay for glow worms, then navigate carefully on the way out.

Photography Notes

Soft, overcast light flatters the sandstone and moss, and the walk‑behind vantage gives you plenty of compositions. Pack a cloth to wipe spray and mud from lenses under the overhang.

Pros

  • You can walk behind the falls under a broad rock overhang
  • Three waterfalls in one short, well‑signed circuit

Cons

  • No toilets or services at the trailhead
  • Tracks can be muddy and slippery after rain

Tips

  • Start at the small reserve past 66 Alexander Avenue; overflow parking is on Oaklands Road.
  • See all three falls in about two hours; take the high-track shortcut after Burgess Falls for a faster return.
  • Visit after rain for the best flow and atmosphere.
  • If staying for glow worms, bring a torch and keep light aimed at the ground.
  • Stick to signed tracks—there are hidden cliff edges and muddy sections under the falls.
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