Kariong Brook Falls via Wondabyne Station

No car? No problem. Good old fashioned public transport has you covered! Take the train from Sydney’s CBD to Wondabyne Station and you will be within hiking distance of wildlife and waterfall heaven; Kariong Brook Falls.

We acknowledge that this adventure is located on the traditional Country of the Darkinjung people who have occupied and cared for the lands, waters, and their inhabitants for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them as the Traditional Custodians and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.

Quick Overview

Kariong Brook Falls is an easily accessible walk just over an hour from Sydney. It’s a gorgeous mix of dry eucalyptus and temperate forests that culminate in a refreshingly cool waterfall.

About Kariong Brook Falls

Kariong Brook Falls is a lovely walk to do if you want something a little more challenging than a stroll but not so hectic you’ll need a day off work to recover. The trail takes you through several different landscapes including thick green vegetation and some boulder-hopping fun towards the end. Don’t forget the highlight of this trip – a swim in the tranquil waters of the falls. It’s definitely worth it so don’t be tempted to turn back early!

If you don’t have your own transport and are exploring your way around NSW by train, this hike is a great one to add to the list. For more adventures near Sydney that you can get to by train, check these out!

Wondabyne Station is situated just North of the Hawkesbury River, in the very southern end of the Brisbane Waters National Park. It’s quite a remote station. So remote in fact it’s believed to be the only station in the whole of Australia with no road access.

In fact, so few people want to get off here that you have to inform the driver when you get on, and flag the train down when you want to come back! Forget and you could be spending a lonely night with the local wildlife (and there’s plenty of it!)

Wondabyne History.

Wondabyne is located on the traditional lands of the Darkinjung people who lived on, cared for and cultivated the land. It’s colonial history is mainly centered around the railway which was built in the 1800s to support the transportation of sandstone from the local quarry.

How to Get to Kariong Brook Falls

How to get Kariong Brook Falls by train

Trains regularly depart Sydney CBD to Wondabyne Station. You will need to find the driver/guard when you get on and inform them you want to get off at Wondabyne. Similarly you need to wave the train down when you want to come back.

Skill Level

Intermediate (some steep climbs and descents over some potentially challenging slopes).

Distance covered / Elevation Gain

Around 8km return. Total elevation is around 160 metres.

Essential Gear

• Hiking boots due to steep climbs/descents
• Swimmers and towel
• Bug spray

What it’s Like to Visit Kariong Brook Falls

The route from Wondabyne to Kariong Brook Falls isn’t overly long, but it starts with a steep climb out of the station straight into the surrounding forest and ends at the falls with a steep descent over boulders, across a creek and under fallen trees.

The walk across the plateau in between is easy going and has several lookouts back across the river, sandwiched between green quilted hills.

If you tackle this one after some heavy rain you’ve got a good chance of catching the waterfall at its best. But also be prepared for the odd leech in the long grass hitching a ride on bare legs. Certainly an annoyance but along with the other wildlife, it adds to the atmosphere of remoteness that follows you the moment you step off the train.

A quick dip in the plunge pool, lunch on the boulders alongside and then it’s a simple case of retracing your steps back to Wondabyne.

But don’t forget to flag down the train!

Kariong Brook Falls FAQS

Where is Kariong Brook Falls located?

Kariong Brook Falls is located on a section of the Great North Walk that snakes along the Hawkesbury River, just North of Sydney

Can you swim at Kariong Brook Falls?

You Certainly can! As long as there is water there go for it!

Is Kariong Brook Falls good for beginners?

Due to the length and terrain of this walk it’s probably best for someone with previous walking experience. Nothing epic, but a reasonable level of fitness is required.

Do i need to book my visit to Kariong Brook Falls?

Nup! This walk is only for walk-ins (wink wink). The only thing you’ll need is an Opal card to tap for your train ride.

So what are you waiting for? This walk has amazing views, a waterfall to swim in and is just a train ride from Sydney! Get out there.

Feature image thanks to @tim_ashelford