Nigretta Falls
Home . The Grampians, VIC
Visit Southern Grampians
All About
Nigretta Falls
DANGER: Sheer cliffs and waterfalls. One slip could be fatal—serious injury or death may result from walking near the edge. Keep to the track. Supervise children closely.
Tucked away in the volcanic plains west of the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park, Nigretta Falls is one of Victoria’s most underrated natural treasures. Just a short drive from Hamilton and only minutes from the more famous Wannon Falls, Nigretta offers its own unique charm — cascading water over ancient basalt rock into a serene gorge surrounded by lush native bushland.
Perfect for photographers, nature lovers, and families looking for a scenic stop, Nigretta Falls is a must-see when exploring western Victoria or road-tripping to the Grampians.
About Nigretta Falls
Unlike the single dramatic plunge of nearby Wannon Falls, Nigretta Falls flows over a series of smaller rock steps, creating a beautiful, tiered waterfall that looks spectacular year-round. The falls are part of the Wannon River system, which originates in the southern Grampians and carves its way across ancient volcanic plains.
- Height: Approx. 25 metres across multiple cascades
- Geology: Basalt lava rock formations from volcanic activity millions of years ago
- Flow: Impressive in winter and spring, but still scenic during drier months
Location & How to Get There
Nigretta Falls is located off the Glenelg Highway, about:
- 3.5 hours (320 km) from Melbourne
- 20 minutes west of Hamilton
- 45 minutes from Halls Gap (Grampians National Park)
- 10 minutes’ drive from Wannon Falls
A sealed road takes you right to the Nigretta Falls Picnic Reserve, where you’ll find ample parking close to the lookouts and picnic facilities. From the main car park, a short walk leads to two excellent viewing areas.
Best Time to Visit
- Winter (June – August): Peak water flow from the Wannon River creates a roaring cascade.
- Spring (September – November): Falls remain impressive, with wildflowers adding colour to the surrounding reserve.
- Summer & Autumn: Flow may reduce, but the layered basalt rock formations create a stunning landscape even with lighter water.
For photography, early morning or late afternoon light creates warm tones across the volcanic cliffs.
Activities
- Hiking
- Photography
- Camping
- Picnic
Facilities
- Lookouts
- Walking trail
- Picnic area
- Carpark
- Barbeque
Important Information
Guidelines
- Always do some research before heading out for your journey. Visit the parks website for up to date information on the current conditions. Ensure to check for any updates relating to any warnings that may be issued for the area, and check for the opening and closing times.
- Always enjoy waterfalls from trails and marked viewing points. Do not climb over barriers as cliff edges and slippery surfaces may cause injury or death.
- Only swim where permitted. Don’t jump from cliff edges into water bodies.
- Swimming near or under waterfalls can be dangerous due to strong currents, submerged hidden rock ledges and other dangers. The force of a waterfall can be incredibly strong and unfortunately, many people have drowned. Follow warning signs and take caution.
- Wear suitable footwear and ensure to bring a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the elements.
- Plan ahead and ensure to take enough food and water for your journey.
- Always stay on the marked tracks where possible. Never climb fences, they are there for your own safety.
- Please consider the environment, take your rubbish with you or place in the bins provided. We want to ensure these beautiful places are still here for our future generations to enjoy.
- Ensure to let a responsible adult know of your plans and report back into them once you have finished exploring for the day.
- Leave nothing but footprints. Take nothing but memories.
Photo credit: Visit Southern Grampians
Location
Getting to Nigretta Falls
Address: Nigretta Falls, Nigretta Falls Access Rd, Bochara VIC 3301
Join the fun and bucket Nigretta Falls
