If you’re looking for a beautiful nature escape in West Gippsland, Toorongo Falls is well worth a visit. Surrounded by lush forest, ferns and moss-covered rocks, this popular waterfall walk offers an easy way to experience some of the region’s natural beauty.
Located near Noojee, Victoria, Toorongo Falls is also an excellent addition to a weekend itinerary when staying at Jilly Park Farmstay. You can spend the morning enjoying the farm, head out to explore the waterfall and forest, then return to the peaceful countryside in the afternoon.
Where Is Toorongo Falls?
Toorongo Falls is located at Toorongo Falls Reserve near Noojee, in West Gippsland. The reserve is about a 10-minute drive from Noojee, making it easy to combine with other attractions in the area. The drive itself is part of the experience, with the road taking you through the green hills and forested countryside around Noojee.
For visitors staying at Jilly Park, it is a great option for a day exploring the natural side of West Gippsland.
What Makes Toorongo Falls Special?
The first thing you’ll notice when you arrive is how green and peaceful the surrounding forest is. The walking track follows the river through dense bushland, with tree ferns, moss-covered rocks and flowing water along the way. As you make your way towards the falls, you begin to catch glimpses of the water through the trees before reaching the main viewing area.
Toorongo Falls is a tiered waterfall surrounded by native forest, making it a particularly scenic spot for photography and simply enjoying the outdoors.
The Toorongo and Amphitheatre Falls Walk
The best way to experience the area is the Toorongo and Amphitheatre Falls Loop Walk.
The circuit is approximately 2.2 kilometres and takes around one hour. It is rated Level 2 and follows a mostly straightforward forest track, although sensible footwear is recommended. The walk gives you the chance to see two waterfalls rather than one — Toorongo Falls and nearby Amphitheatre Falls.
You’ll walk through forest, cross small bridges and follow the sound of the river as you make your way around the loop. It’s not a walk you need to rush. Take your time, stop for photographs and enjoy the quiet of the forest.
Don’t Miss Amphitheatre Falls
One of the best things about this walk is that you can continue on to Amphitheatre Falls after seeing Toorongo Falls. The second waterfall adds another beautiful stop to the walk, with cascading water surrounded by the dense greenery of the forest.
If you have the time, completing the full loop is well worth it rather than simply walking to the main falls and returning.
What Will You See Along the Walk?
The waterfalls are the main attraction, but the forest around them is just as enjoyable.
Keep an eye out for:
- Tall tree ferns
- Moss-covered rocks
- Native forest
- Flowing streams
- Birds and other wildlife
- Interesting forest plants
The Toorongo Falls Reserve is home to wildlife including possums, sugar gliders and bats, although sightings are never guaranteed. Dawn and dusk can be good times for wildlife spotting.
For many visitors, the peaceful forest atmosphere is just as memorable as the waterfall itself.
Is Toorongo Falls Suitable for Families?
The walk can be a good option for families who enjoy spending time outdoors. The loop is relatively short and is rated Level 2, making it more accessible than many longer bushwalking tracks. As with any natural walking track, conditions can change with weather. Wear comfortable shoes, take some water and keep an eye on children around the river, rocks and track edges.
It’s best to check local conditions before setting out.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Toorongo Falls?
Toorongo Falls is worth visiting throughout the year, but the waterfall can be particularly impressive after good rainfall. Recent regional tourism information notes that waterfalls are often at their best after periods of higher rainfall, with spring often providing good conditions. Winter can also be a beautiful time to visit, with the cool forest air and possibility of mist creating a different atmosphere.
If you’re visiting during wet weather, take extra care on the track as rocks and surfaces can become slippery.
Things to Do Near Toorongo Falls
One of the great things about visiting Toorongo Falls is that there are plenty of other things to see around Noojee and West Gippsland. You could combine your waterfall walk with a visit to the historic Noojee Trestle Bridge, explore the Noojee Railway Station Precinct, or take another rainforest walk such as the Glen Nayook Rainforest Walk or Ada Tree Rainforest Walk.
If you’re looking for somewhere to stop for a meal, Noojee also has country pubs and cafés where you can relax after your walk. This makes the area ideal for a relaxed day trip rather than trying to fit everything into a few hours.