Though the viewing platform to Carisbrook Falls is a mere 500 meters from Great Ocean Road, once you’re there, you feel like you’re in a different realm. They appear, cascading down a rock face that seemingly comes out of nowhere amidst an abundant green terrain.
The short trail to Carisbrook Falls begins from a gravel carpark that veers off from Great Ocean Road, roughly halfway between Lorne and Skenes Creek.
The carpark is uneven, so take it slow to avoid an extra bumpy ride.
The beginning of the trail is clearly signposted.
Follow the track uphill, ignoring blocked off deviations such as this one.
I visited Carisbrook Falls on my way home to Melbourne from Skenes Creek, after a 4 day Chasing Waterfalls Trip. (Itineraries for my days can be found here – Day 1 and here – Day 2). So I was exhausted. And I couldn’t imagine a waterfall being visible from here.
But I continued on. Soon I saw a river gushing far below in the valley, which gave me confidence.
I shifted my backpack, tugged my camera bag comfortably over my shoulder, and continued on. The path was short, but thin and steep.
And sure enough, soon I saw the falls peeking through the trees.
The tiny viewing platform is quite some significant distance from the falls, but still breathtaking. Best visited after heavy rainfall, such as the case on the day I visited, the water gushes down the mountainous terrain.
Carisbrook Falls were a pleasant, short walk with a rewarding result. I’m glad I gathered the last of my strength to pay them a visit.
Quick Facts
| Last visit | September 2017 |
| Best Time | June-July |
| Start / Finish | Carpark off Great Ocean Road, Wongarra |
| Unsealed Roads | No, carpark road a bit bumpy |
| Walking distance | 500meters one way |
| Time | 40 minutes return |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Facilities | None, halfway between Lorne and Apollo Bay |
| Lat & Long | 38.6919° S, 143.8098° E |
| Nearby | Sheoak Falls & Swallow Cave |
| Watercourse | Carisbrook Creek |
