Best waterfalls in Nitmiluk National Park are found within a landscape of spectacular gorges, natural pools, and escarpments in Australia's Northern Territory. The park is home to several waterfalls, including Leliyn (Edith Falls), which offers year-round swimming opportunities. Many other falls, such as 17 Mile Falls and Crystal Falls, are accessible via the multi-day Jatbula Trail. The region's geology features layered sandstone and river systems that create diverse waterfall experiences.
Last updated: May 13, 2026
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Popular around Nitmiluk National Park
Edith Falls Plunge Pool sits at the base of the main waterfall and is the most accessible swimming spot in the Leliyn area. A short path from the car park leads to this expansive, pandanus-fringed pool where you can swim underneath the cascading falls, making it one of the park’s most popular places to cool off after a walk.
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Bemang Lookout is one of the main viewpoints along the Leliyn Trail. From this vantage point, the landscape opens out across the layered rock landscape of Edith River valley and the series of pools and cascades below. It's one of the best elevated perspectives of the Edith Falls area.
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Upper Pool is a large natural swimming hole above the main waterfall. Surrounded by red sandstone and fed by cascading water, the clear pool is a popular place to swim and relax midway through the walk. From its rocky edges, you can look down over the falls or swim close to the smaller cascades feeding the pool.
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This is a great spot to see the falls dropping over layered sandstone into the wide plunge pool surrounded by pandanus and bushland. From higher points along the Leliyn Trail, the perspective opens across the Edith River valley, showing the series of pools and cascades that form the falls. It’s one of the most iconic sights in Nitmiluk National Park, especially impressive after seasonal rains, when the water flow is at its strongest.
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Leliyn Trail is a dirt path that climbs onto the sandstone escarpment, then circles above Edith Falls before returning to the plunge pool near the car park. This moderately challenging track includes steep rocky sections and passes two lookouts with excellent views of the falls, the Edith River and the surrounding woodland. About halfway around the circuit, the path reaches the upper pool, which is an ideal spot to stop for a swim before completing the loop.
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Very worth seeing, you have to see it
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Very worth seeing, you have to see it
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Leliyn (Edith Falls) is one of the most popular and accessible waterfall areas in Nitmiluk National Park. It features a series of cascading waterfalls and natural pools, including the expansive Edith Falls Plunge Pool at the base and the tranquil Upper Pool, both excellent for swimming.
Yes, Leliyn (Edith Falls) is very family-friendly. The main plunge pool is easily accessible from the car park, offering a great spot for swimming. For a short walk, the Leliyn (Edith Falls) circuit is an easy option, and there are facilities like picnic areas and barbecues available.
The dry season (May to October) is generally the best time to visit the waterfalls in Nitmiluk National Park. During this period, water levels are typically safe for swimming, and the weather is cooler and more comfortable for hiking. Leliyn (Edith Falls) offers year-round swimming opportunities, but some seasonal falls like Southern Rockhole are best seen during or just after the wet season.
Around the waterfalls, you'll encounter stunning natural features like red sandstone escarpments, paperbark and pandanus-fringed natural pools, and lush bushland. Waterfalls like Leliyn (Edith Falls) cascade over layered sandstone, creating picturesque swimming holes. The View of Edith Falls offers an iconic perspective of these features.
Absolutely. The Leliyn Trail is a popular 2.6 km loop walk at Edith Falls, offering stunning views and access to the upper pools. For more extensive adventures, the challenging 62 km Jatbula Trail passes by several waterfalls, including 17 Mile Falls and Crystal Falls. You can find more hiking options in the Hiking in Nitmiluk National Park guide.
Yes, many of the waterfall pools in Nitmiluk National Park offer excellent swimming opportunities. The Edith Falls Plunge Pool and the Upper Pool at Leliyn (Edith Falls) are particularly popular for cooling off. Always observe local signage and conditions, especially during the wet season, as swimming access can change.
For those seeking a more secluded experience, 17 Mile Falls and Crystal Falls are considered hidden gems, exclusively accessible to walkers undertaking the multi-day Jatbula Trail. These falls offer serene scenery and permanent water sources, making them rewarding stops for experienced hikers.
Leliyn (Edith Falls) is well-equipped for visitors. You'll find a kiosk, picnic areas, gas barbecues, toilets, and showers, making it a comfortable spot for a day trip or an overnight stay at the camping grounds.
Generally, you do not need a specific permit for day visits to accessible waterfalls like Leliyn (Edith Falls). However, if you plan to undertake multi-day hikes like the Jatbula Trail, which passes by waterfalls such as 17 Mile Falls and Crystal Falls, permits are required and must be booked in advance. Always check with the Nitmiluk National Park visitor centre for the latest requirements.
For a waterfall hike, especially during warmer months, it's essential to pack plenty of water, sturdy walking shoes, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), insect repellent, and swimwear if you plan to take a dip. Some trails, like the Leliyn Trail, can have steep, rocky sections, so appropriate footwear is crucial.
The View of Edith Falls provides an iconic perspective of the falls cascading into the plunge pool. Along the Leliyn Trail, you'll also find the Bemang Lookout, which offers elevated views across the Edith River valley and the series of pools and cascades.

