Phantom Falls

Overview

Phantom Falls is a 15‑metre waterfall on the St George River near Lorne, set in classic Otways rainforest with tree ferns and mossy rock. It’s a sweet payoff for a manageable hike and tends to hold flow even in drier spells, with bonus drama after rain.

Getting There & Routes

• Allenvale Road car park route: about 3.5 km return (around 1.5 hours). The track crosses the St George River and passes through private property on signed paths before entering the park.
• Sheoak Picnic Area via The Canyon: a more varied 8.5 km return (about 3 hours). You can link Won Wondah and Henderson Falls and The Canyon on the way. A circuit is possible by continuing to Allenvale and returning to Sheoak along an unsealed road; the loop works either direction.

Expect uneven ground, one notably steep section near the falls, and a stair descent to reach the base. Surfaces can be muddy and slick—this is one of Australia’s wettest ranges.

What You’ll See

A narrow, ribboning drop into a ferny amphitheatre, with a photogenic pool at the base. The approach from Allenvale adds a quirky transition from orchards and farmland into dense forest. After rain, the spray and flow step up noticeably.

Wildlife & Nature Notes

You may encounter birdlife, and koalas are common in the broader park. Digging by echidnas and long‑nosed bandicoots has increased in the region, creating small trip hazards—watch your footing, especially at dusk. In warm weather, snakes are active. The Otways are also known for fungi diversity and, in shaded gullies after dark, glow‑worms can sometimes be seen.

Rules, Facilities & Safety

• No dogs, bicycles, vehicles, fires, or camping on these tracks. Drones require a permit. Assistance dogs have specific entry requirements.
• No toilets at the Allenvale Road car park; the nearest facilities are at Sheoak Picnic Area.
• Hazards include slippery rocks, uneven ground, steep stairs, deep water, flash flooding, falling limbs/trees, and snakes. Bring your own water.
• The pool looks tempting but swimming is only allowed in certain areas due to currents and hidden rocks—treat this as a look‑but‑don’t‑leap spot unless signage says otherwise.

Best Time to Visit

It’s open 24 hours, but go in daylight for safety. Weekday mornings are the quietest; weekends see more people late morning to mid‑afternoon. For the best show, time it after rain.

Current Track Notes

As of November 26, 2025, some nearby walks in the park had closures and advisories. Check Parks Victoria before you go for the latest status.