Calling all waterfall lovers! The time has come to check out the Somersby Falls upgrades, including the all-new walking tracks, picnic areas, and accessible viewing platform!

 

The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service has completed its phase 2 works on the popular Central Coast waterfall and picnic site, unveiling all new family-friendly and accessible facilities.

Located just one hour north of Sydney in the Brisbane Waters National Park, the Somersby Falls picnic area now boasts two new BBQ shelters, eight new free BBQ plates, and seven new picnic tables. As well as terraced grass areas for picnics and recreation.

 

Somersby Falls picnic area

 

Multiple new walking tracks have also been installed, including an accessible loop path which allows access to the whole precinct and extends down to a new elevated viewing platform at the top of the falls.

Other upgrades to the site include improved and accessible bathroom amenities with an onsite sewer management system, an expanded carpark with four dedicated accessible car spaces, improved signage, and a small bus drop-off zone.

Somersby Falls walking track

The popular Somersby Falls walking track has also reopened. The grade 3, 800m return track leads through the rainforest to the bottom of Somersby Falls and gives visitors the opportunity to catch a glimpse of the local wildlife. However, due to the steps this track is unfortunately not wheelchair accessible.

 

Somersby Falls picnic area, Brisbane Water National Park_credit SCohen(1)

Somersby Falls walking track

 

Upgrades to the site were monitored by Aboriginal heritage representatives to ensure the protection of Aboriginal cultural heritage sites. Somersby Falls are on Dharruk and Darkinjung Nation, the traditional Country of the Dharruk and Darkinjung people.

The park is currently open from 7am to 6pm (8pm during daylight saving time) and requires a park entry fee of $8 per vehicle per day, which can be purchased at onsite pay machines.

Also, if you’re after a little more peace and a few less crowds, avoid the weekends and head over on a weekday!

 

Images thanks to S Cohen, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service

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