Waterfall Gully

Adelaide

A lush green forest with a clear blue pond surrounded by dense vegetation and rocky terrain.
A waterfall cascading down a rocky cliff surrounded by lush greenery.
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A wooden bridge leading to a hillside with stone walls and a row of chalets with white umbrellas.
A wooden dining room with a brick fireplace, framed certificates, and a 'Love Utapa' sign.
Experience the sights and sounds of this pretty cascade in the foothills of the Mount Lofty Ranges and explore a series of walking tracks and heritage sites.

Waterfall Gully straddles the valley of First Creek beneath the forested hills of the Mount Lofty Ranges. Comprised of pretty gardens and conservation parkland, Waterfall Gully is an enchanting spot for a stroll in nature. Explore Cleland Conservation Park and find one of the parkland’s largest waterfalls. Trek to the summit of Mount Lofty and look out over Adelaide’s cityscape.

Embark on the walking track to First Falls, Waterfall Gully’s prize attraction. The trail’s boardwalks and lookout points make it a great activity for the whole family. Peer through the gully as you make your way down to the waterfall and admire the native vegetation that clings to the stony embankments. When you come to the viewing platform at the base of the falls, you’ll see magnificent views of the tall cascade leaping down a sheer rock face into the deep pool below. The weir in the pool was constructed in the late 19th century and was formerly used to supply Adelaide with pristine drinking water.

If you’re feeling up to the challenge, take on the steep walking track that winds over the rocky hillsides and through fragrant stringybark eucalyptus forests to the summit of Mount Lofty. At the end of this trek, you’ll be rewarded with a sweeping view across Adelaide’s city skyline. Keen hikers can continue to explore the hillsides via the walking trails around Chambers Gully, Woolshed Gully and First Creek. Check out Mount Osmond or the Cleland Wildlife Park on your journey. 

Return to the bottom of the gully for a well-deserved meal at the Waterfall Gully Restaurant. Built in the style of a Swiss chalet, this heritage-listed restaurant dates back to 1912 and is a great spot to relax with a cool drink.

Waterfall Gully is located within the eastern suburbs of Adelaide. It is 5 miles (8 kilometers) from the city center. The First Falls walking track and viewing platforms are free to visit at any time however, entry fees apply to the Mount Lofty Summit and the Cleland Wildlife Park. Wear sturdy shoes and take care on the rocky trails during wet weather.

Where to stay in Waterfall Gully

Find the best Waterfall Gully areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most.
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Adelaide Central Business District

Adelaide Central Business District is highly notable for its popular shops, and you might want to visit top sights like Victoria Square and Adelaide Town Hall. See more of Adelaide by jumping on the metro at Victoria Square - Tarndanyangga Tram Stop or Rundle Mall Tram Stop.

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Glenelg

Glenelg is highly notable for its stunning beaches, and you might want to visit top sights like Jetty Road and The Beachhouse. See more of Adelaide by jumping on the metro at Jetty Road (Stop 16) Tram Stop or Moseley Square (Stop 17) Tram Stop.

A stone building with a sign for 'Hot Draughthaus' and 'Buffet'.

Hahndorf

Unique features of Hahndorf include the spas and bars. Make a stop by Hahndorf Hill Winery or Udder Delights Cheese Cellar while you're exploring the area.

A vineyard with rows of grapevines in front of a stone building with a green roof.

McLaren Vale

Wineries, coffeehouses, and spas highlight some of the noteworthy features of McLaren Vale. Make a stop by Wirra Wirra Vineyards or d'Arenberg Wines while you're exploring the neighborhood.

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North Adelaide

North Adelaide is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Adelaide Oval and North Adelaide Golf Course while you're in town.

Waterfall Gully