Somersby Falls – A Waterfall Day Trip

There is something mystical about waterfalls. It doesn’t matter whether they are powerful beasts charging toward an unknown destiny or trickling little creatures that harmlessly dribble along, they captivate me. Where has the water come from and where it is headed? What adventurous route will it take? Will the molecules join forces and swell to rob the banks of their walls? Or will they cling into capillary action, continually smoothing the rocky beds?

These are the thoughts I have, my kids on the other hand like the more practical side of waterfalls. Rock hopping across mossy platforms to get to the hidden caverns, climbing fallen trees, investigating how to get higher or further down a path and, of course, against my stern advice – splashing the icy cold water at each other. Ok, Ok, I might partake in that too – but they can’t do it to me. And, in response to their “why can’t we?” is the typical “Because I’m the mum and I said so!” Oh, the power of parenting!

Why should you visit Somersby Falls?

Because I’m the mum, and I said so! Plus, if you are travelling by road anywhere north from (or back to) Sydney then it’s on your way, so as a community service you should always ‘drive, revive, survive’.

The Pro’s

It provides great bragging rights with amazing photo opportunity evidence. I’m pretty sure there is some magical spell that Somersby Falls cast to make every pic (and person) look amazingly sexy – but you’ll have to go to test it for yourself. Flowing water promotes a sense of calm, so you’ll be able to tolerate the dad jokes, or the mum nagging, or the bickering kids with a sense of aplomb (and look serene in the photos). Seriously though, Somersby Falls is a tranquil bush setting that encourages exploration and imagination. Try a bit of storytelling or remind your kids of the water cycle and the fact that fresh water is a finite commodity. Overall, it’s beautiful, fun to explore and not too taxing to access at about 400m worth of steps and path to the bottom.

The Con’s

Somersby Falls can get crowded in summer, making it almost impossible to avoid photo bombers! The rocks are slippery and falls happen often (pun completely intended). Some grubby people occasionally leave rubbish – do a good deed and take a piece of dumped rubbish with you if you see it. I promise you’ll naturally get great karma (man, I’m on a roll with the puns). The bush turkeys that hang around the picnic area have been scabbing left overs and been fed by tourists for far too long, so they are like little old arrogant men – they think the world owes them. Unless you’re on that really special bush-turkey diet (didn’t you know? It’s the newest diet craze – it’s where you gobble everything), please don’t feed the supposedly wild birds.

Best time to go to Somersby Falls

After the rain, of course! It can be a great escape from the heat of summer, or an icy serenade to your senses in mid-winter. Either way, the lush rainforest surrounds and cool water keeps it refreshing.

Essentials to pack for Somersby Falls

Your camera or, let’s face it, you’ll have your phone – It’s reasonable cell reception, so you can cause instant Facebook and Instagram envy by tagging your location and uploading images while you’re there.

What to wear

Whatever you find comfortable to walk in. Although, it might be an idea to leave the stilettos (or even the wedges at home – I’m serious! I’m hopeless at taking discreet photos of random people doing weird things, so I wasn’t quick enough to capture the three young women wearing heals as they walked across the sloshy puddles for the perfect ‘insta’ shot!). Swimwear and/or change of clothes, plus a towel for the afore mentioned not so accidental splashes/ falls. A towel can double as a picnic rug too!

Bandaids

Even the most deft, sure-foot, agile and immensely athletic (:P) person can fall prey to slimy moss. Trust me, experience tells me grazes always feel better with a bandaid!

Lunch or snacks

There are free gas BBQs and a few picnic tables. If you’re part of a large group, you will require more tables and chairs or a picnic rug. Or, take a packed lunch and find a comfy rock at the bottom of Somersby Falls!

Water

While there is sometimes an abundance of the stuff flowing straight past you, it’s best to bring your own water.

Plastic bags/ wet bucket

If you decide to swim, it’s always good to have something to keep your wet gear in. Just remember to get it out of the car when you get home, or you’ll be perplexed by that ‘what’s that smell?’ thought for days after!

How to get to Somersby Falls

Let’s be honest here. If I give you instructions, you’ll probably ignore them anyway. I’ve given you a google map, which has road names on it. If you’re on the M1 Freeway (in either direction), take the Gosford exit. Then click on my nifty google map of ‘Somersby Falls’ and take its instructions. It’s not too hard, plus if you get lost you can swear at google without it being offended! Oh, and don’t be alarmed when it takes you through an industrial area, you are in the right place that is just the facade to keep it a hidden gem!

Tight-arse tips for Somersby Falls

Park outside of the gates and save the parking fee of $8 (there are often Rangers checking the park). It is a nominal walk and builds the anticipation anyway! Also, save yourself the cost of an ambulance by keeping a watchful eye on little kids who may feel the need to take a plunge in the falls! There is no restricted access to the cliff side, which I think is awesome, as escaping the dangers of nature should involve common sense not big ugly fences!

Of course, if you go – please let me know! I would love to hear your thoughts, know if this guide inspired you or if there is something I need to add to it! The NSW National Parks site also has more info about Brisbane Water National Park and other areas to explore.

Enjoy 😊

xk

*Please note: There are some shameless plugs to popular products that I use (or have on my wish list) from Amazon. If you click on the link and end up purchasing something then I get a little kickback – at no cost to you…so click and buy away my friends 😉