Anne's Cascades

Overview

A petite, 3 m single‑tier waterfall on the Johanna River, Anne’s Cascades is the highlight of Madsen’s Track in the Melba Gully day‑visitor area. The name honors Anne Madsen, whose family gifted Melba Gully for conservation in 1975. It’s a serene daytime stop and turns quietly magical after dark when glow worms shimmer along the banks.

The Walk

Expect a very short outing: roughly 1–1.2 km return/loop and 20–40 minutes by day, longer at night if you linger. From the Melba Gully car park the path to the cascades is mostly flat; beyond, the loop includes steps and steeper sections. Surfaces are often damp and can be slippery. There’s a bench at the falls. Dogs are not permitted.

What You'll See

Cool temperate rainforest with lush tree ferns frames a gurgling little cascade. The waterways here support native wildlife—signage highlights platypus, Powerful Owl, freshwater crayfish and the Otway stonefly—so keep your eyes peeled and your pace unhurried.

Glow Worms 101

After dusk, hundreds of tiny blue‑green lights often appear close to the path. For the best experience: use a very dim/red light, keep voices low, stay on the track, and avoid flash photography. Arriving later in the evening tends to mean fewer people and a brighter show.

Facilities

Toilets are at the Melba Gully car park/picnic area (reports note they may not be lit at night). You’ll also find picnic tables and free gas BBQs there. Drinking water isn’t listed—bring your own. No dogs.

Best Time to Visit

Daytime brings a reliably cool, shaded forest that’s perfect for a quick leg‑stretch. Evenings are the prime window for glow worms—give yourself time after full dark and move slowly. The site is accessible around the clock; before you go, check Parks Victoria for any updates or changed conditions.