There is something rather special about the Strzelecki Ranges. Rolling green hills, winding country roads, towering eucalypts and pockets of rainforest make this part of Gippsland a wonderful place to slow down and explore.
And if you enjoy discovering waterfalls, there are a few lovely surprises tucked away in this landscape.
This time, we headed towards three different corners of the region: Morwell River Falls, Narracan Falls and the picturesque town of Mirboo North. Each offers something a little different, from cascading water hidden in native bushland to a peaceful picnic stop and a country town with plenty of character.
1. Morwell River Falls: A waterfall hidden in the bush
Some destinations announce themselves with grand entrances. Morwell River Falls prefers to keep things quiet.
Located near Boolarra South, within the beautiful Strzelecki Ranges, this little-known reserve is tucked away along Morwell River Road. The drive itself is part of the experience, with a winding gravel road following the contours of the river through rolling countryside and patches of native bush.
Please note: The roads are not in perfect condition especially during and after rains so drive carefully. many places its only big enough for a car so be extra cautious during turns.
Once you reach the reserve, there is a picnic table and information shelter near the beginning of the walk. From there, steps lead down towards the river and the cascades. The walk to the larger waterfall takes around 15 minutes return, although the lower sections involve steeper steps and uneven ground.
The falls are made up of three drops, with the largest cascading into a wide pool below. Towering eucalypts, ferns and the sounds of flowing water give the area a wonderfully secluded feel.
A little local insight: The reserve has been a visitor attraction for more than a century. Today, it remains a relatively peaceful place to enjoy the natural landscape, with local volunteers helping care for the area.
Good to know
- Facilities: Car parking, picnic table and information shelter
- Walking conditions: Narrow sections, steps and slippery or muddy surfaces after rain
- Accessibility: Not suitable for prams and wheelchairs
- Dogs: The reserve is dog-friendly
Allow extra time if you want to explore the different cascades. Take care around the water and avoid climbing onto slippery rocks.
2. Narracan Falls: A little waterfall with a lovely picnic setting
Narraccan Falls are our favorite summer hangout and a place we love to spend a day out. Not every waterfall needs a dramatic mountain backdrop to make an impression but this one is special.
Located near Trafalgar and Thorpdale, this charming stop is surrounded by open countryside. It sits within Narracan Falls Streamside Reserve, a grassy reserve where the sound of running water makes a rather pleasant companion to lunch.
The waterfall is fed by Narracan Creek, which rises in the hills northwest of Thorpdale before eventually joining the Latrobe River.
From the car park, a short walk across the open reserve takes you towards the sound of the creek. A dirt path leads through the trees to the riverbank, where you can enjoy a closer view of the falls.
The setting is quite different from Morwell River Falls. Instead of a secluded forest walk, you’ll find an open grassy area, picnic tables and space for children to stretch their legs.
A little local insight: Look out for the large hollow tree in the reserve. It has become a bit of a talking point for younger visitors and adds a playful touch to this peaceful picnic spot. The reserve also has a connection to the area’s early European settlement, with a memorial recognising pioneer families who settled in the district during the 1870s.
Good to know
- Accessibility: Not suitable for prams and wheelchairs
- Facilities: Car parking, picnic tables and open fireplaces
- Walking: Short, unsealed paths through the reserve
- Dogs: The reserve is dog-friendly
3. Mirboo North: Make the journey part of the adventure
Location : 155 kilometres southeast of Melbourne (about a two-hour drive)
While Mirboo North isn’t a waterfall destination itself, it deserves a place on this itinerary. This welcoming country town is one of the loveliest bases for exploring the Strzelecki Ranges.
Surrounded by green hills, farmland and forest, Mirboo North sits along the scenic Grand Ridge Road. The town has a relaxed country atmosphere, colourful murals, local shops and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.
Here are a few reasons to linger.
Walk or cycle the Grand Ridge Rail Trail
The Grand Ridge Rail Trail stretches for approximately 13 kilometres between Mirboo North and Boolarra.
Following the route of the former railway line, the trail passes through rolling countryside, eucalypt forest and picturesque farmland.
You can walk or cycle a section rather than tackling the entire distance. It’s a lovely way to experience the region at a slower pace.
Discover the Lyrebird Forest Walk
If you’re keen to spend more time among the trees, look into the Lyrebird Forest Walk near Mirboo North (located 3.3 km north of Mirboo North and is accessible from the Strzelecki Highway).
The 5 km trail takes you through beautiful temperate rainforest, where ferns, tall trees and birdlife create a peaceful natural setting. Keep your eyes open and you might be lucky enough to spot a lyrebird. More details can be found at https://visitsouthgippsland.com.au/place/walks/lyrebird-forest-walk
Explore the town’s murals and local character
Take a wander through the town centre and look out for the murals painted across its heritage buildings. They reflect the history and character of this small Gippsland community. More details can be found at https://www.mirboonorth.com/historical-walk.
The Mirboo North ArtSpace is a not-for-profit community organisation which is open all year at 81 Ridgway, Wednesday to Sunday, and sells the beautiful wares of some 40 local artists and artisans.
Baromi Park is another pleasant stop, with a playground, barbecue facilities and open green space. We attended the Mirboo North Winterfest few years back and still carry wonderful memories of the experience. They also host the Mirboo North Italian Festa in febraury so look out for that.
Take the scenic route along Grand Ridge Road
For those who enjoy a good country drive, Grand Ridge Road is a highlight in its own right.
The road winds through the Strzelecki Ranges, offering changing views of forest, farmland and rolling hills. Allow time for the journey rather than treating it as simply a way to get from one town to another.
Good to know
- Location: Mirboo North, Gippsland
- From Melbourne: Approximately 156 kilometres by road, depending on your route
- Nearby experiences: Grand Ridge Rail Trail, Lyrebird Forest Walk, Baromi Park and local shops
- Ideal for: A relaxed country-town visit, walking, cycling and scenic drives
Planning your Strzelecki Ranges escape
These destinations are best enjoyed as individual stops within a broader Gippsland exploration rather than a tightly packed waterfall circuit.
Morwell River Falls and Narracan Falls are in different parts of the region, while Mirboo North makes a lovely addition to a separate scenic drive or a longer day out.
Location & Distance Guide to Mirboo
Traralgon (Latrobe Valley): 46.7 km
Frankston (Mornington Peninsula): 122 km
Melbourne: 155 km
Werribee (Outer West): 185 km
- Route Options: If you are coming from the eastern or northern suburbs, taking the M1 (Princes Freeway) down to Trafalgar and cutting through the hills via the Mirboo North-Trafalgar Road is often the fastest route. From the southern or bayside suburbs, the South Gippsland Highway via Leongatha offers a seamless, toll-free alternative.
- Scenic Detour: If you have time to spare, Mirboo North sits right along the famous Grand Ridge Road, a breathtakingly scenic drive through the spine of the Strzelecki Ranges.
