Last Updated on 23 January 2026 by Ariana Svenson
Quinninup Falls is one of Western Australia’s most Insta-worthy and popular waterfalls! Here, we cover everything you need to know to do the Quinninup Falls hike.
In general terms, Quinninup Falls is located in Willyabrup, near Yallingup and about 30km north of Margaret River.
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It’s a short hike of about 4 kilometres in total with a stunning coastline and beautiful ocean views. About 2km there and another 2km back.
We didn’t find it hard at all. However, I guess it depends on your experience, as more than a few reviews describe it as ‘physically challenging’.
Remember that Quinninup Falls is only a 10-meter-high waterfall (so that’s not actually very tall). Also, it only flows in winter and early spring, so the best time to visit is after recent rain (and even then, the flow is not massive)! How much water you see will depend on the season, and a bit of luck.
In short, if you want to do some Margaret River walking trails, do this one when the falls are flowing. If you are visiting in the drier months, why not consider one of the other short Margaret River hikes?
Quinninup means ‘place of the zamia palm‘, the name given to this area by the Wadandi people.
“Kaya, Nala Maat Kaya Noonduk (Hello, Our Family Welcomes You) to Wadandi Boodja (Saltwater People’s Country).
We all come together on Boodja (Country). Whilst on Wadandi Boodja, we ask that you respect the area and walk softly on the Boodja whilst taking the time to listen to the Boodja as she Wongi Birak (Talks of the Season)– from
Wayne “Wonitji” Webb, Pibulmun Wadandi Custodian
How to Get to Quinninup Falls + Car Park Information
We’d read many stories on the internet about people having trouble getting to Quinninup Falls or using their GPSs and getting lost. We did our research and didn’t get lost. We put Moses Rock Road Carpark into our GPS.
It is about 4 km from the Caves Rd turnoff to the Moses Rock Carpark.
We actually spotted a small informal carpark immediately opposite where the Cape to Cape Track crossed Moses Rock Road and parked there. Thus, we saved walking up/down the hill to the formal Moses Rock carpark.
The Quinninup Falls 4WD Track
It’s worth noting that hiking isn’t the only way to get to Quinninup Falls. You can drive there but only with a 4WD.
After driving down Quinninup Road, the entrance to the unsealed track is about 2km along. It looks flat to begin with but then gets very bumpy, and it’s NOT suitable for a car!
You’ll reach a car park near the Cape-to-Cape track, where it’s around 600m from Quinninup Falls.
Quinninup Falls Trail Facilities
- The first thing to note is that there is no drinking water along the Quinninup Falls trail. Make sure you bring plenty of water for your hike.
- If you are in need of a restroom there are facilities located at Moses Rock Road Car Park.
- Make sure you read the information board at the start of the path/ hike. Not only has any relevant, up-to-date information been posted, but there is also information about the history and ecology of the area around Quinninup waterfall.
- There is currently no entry fee to enter Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park.
Quinninup Falls Hike Details
Total Length Of Hike: 4km (2km each way) for a total hike of 2.5 miles.
Time Required: About 45 minutes each way if you are fit or longer if you are not fit/ have children.
We took 2.5 hours in total, with 2 children aged 10 and 6, one infant in a carrier, and one 75-year-old. We ate snacks at the waterfall and explored the beach a bit!
When walking the Quinninup Falls track, the important trail markers are the Cape-to-Cape ones. In fact, you will see them for the bulk of the trail. The kids loved them because you know you are going the right way when you see them!
The first part of the walk is pretty flat, running along the top of the coastal escarpment through heath vegetation. There is one big sand dune (you will know it when you get there).
You can view and download a Quinninup Falls trail map here!
Shortly after (about 1.5 km in), the Quinninup waterfall track diverts from the Cape to Cape track, veering strongly to the East (or in the opposite direction to the ocean) and is slightly uphill to the falls. Not very steep.
Going back up the big sand dune is a bit of a challenge, especially with the loose sand moving underfoot, but it’s totally doable if you go slowly!
We did the hike in July 2020 and had read a lot of information online about the hike being wet and soggy in winter.
However, they have done a lot of maintenance on it, and it is not bad at all! (See pictures). The waterfall only flows during winter and spring, so that is the only smart time to do this hike. But watch out for snakes during late Spring, Summer, and Autumn.
On the day we did the hike, about five other groups were either going to or coming from the falls. It was a busy walking trail, by our estimation!
We hiked in mid-winter and didn’t get our feet wet!
Who is the Quinninup Falls Walking Trail Suitable For?
As I said above, on our hike, there were three kids (ages 10 and 6 and an infant in a carrier) and two adults (one 75 years old).
NOTE: If you’re visiting Margaret River with children, make sure you read our guide to the top things to do in Margaret River with kids.
I would say that the hike is suitable for children and seniors who are used to hiking and being outdoors. As long as they are in good physical condition, there should be no issue. The steep sand dune can be a bit of a challenge; slow and steady wins the race. There are also rocky paths in places.
It is worth noting, however, that there are steep inclines in parts, and the ground can be uneven. The ground can be muddy and difficult to traverse depending on the time of year.
We would not recommend Quinninup Falls for people not in good physical health or with mobility issues. It could be a difficult walk for them. Also, small children who are not used to trekking should perhaps do a shorter, easier hike first.
By the way, if you’re searching for more interesting Margaret River hikes and walking trails to explore with your family, be sure to check out our blog post about it.
Warning: Make sure you keep an eye out for snakes in the warmer months.
Is Quinninup Falls Dog Friendly?
No, it is not. On the day we were there a man had a dog and we politely pointed out that it was a National Park – he said he didn’t know.
Quinninup Falls is located in Leeuwin Naturaliste National Park and on National Park land. Dogs, horses, and other pets are not allowed. This is to preserve the natural beauty of this hidden gem in the Margaret River region and protect the native wildlife.
Dog exercise beaches are at Dunsborough, Yallingup, Gracetown, Prevelly, and Augusta. Read our guide to the best dog friendly accommodation in Margaret River.
What to Take When You Visit Quinninup Waterfall: Hiking Essentials
- Water! Even though this is a short walk, it is important to carry water.
- Snacks can be helpful, especially with kids.
- Hat & sunscreen – even in winter.
- Dress appropriately, as the weather on the coast can change dramatically over a short period.
- Consider bringing insect repellent. Mosquitoes can be a bother, especially in the summer months.
- Heavy rain can occur in the winter months. If there have been recent rains, consider bringing waterproof shoes.
Other Things to Consider When You Visit Quinninup Falls
In addition to the items above, you should also:
- Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
- Allow plenty of time to enjoy your walk. Be aware of what time the sun sets.
- Take all your litter home. This includes toilet paper should you need to relieve yourself on the trail (carry a small plastic bag for this purpose). White flags (e.g., toilet paper) are gross!
- Never light a ground fire – and use BBQs where provided.
- Pets are not allowed in National Parks.
What are Other Things to See Around Quinninup Falls, Yallingup?
Quinninup Falls is located in Willyabrup, and the closest small town is Yallingup, famous for its surf break. In our guide to the best things to do in Yallingup, we have covered all the attractions in Yallingup, including places to eat.
The Cape to Cape Track?
The Cape to Cape Walk Track is one of Western Australia’s most famous long-distance walk trails. It runs for 123 kilometres along the Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge and has to be one of the most stunning coastal hiking trails in Australia.
It starts at the lighthouses of Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse near Dunsborough and ends at the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse near Augusta.
The Cape to Cape Track is famous for its amazing coastal scenery, which must be amongst the most dramatic in the world. In addition, the fascinating geology of cliffs, caves, headlands, and rock formations is also present.
Compared to other famous walk trails, like in the Andes of Peru or Nepal, there are not a lot of very steep hills. Walking at sea level, you don’t need to deal with altitude complications. On the other hand, walking on some beach stretches can be very tough when the sand is soft.
Most people take about 7 days to complete the whole Cape to Cape Walk Track. The daily hiking ranges between 14 km on the first day and 21 km on the longest day.
The best months to hike are March to May when the weather is cooler. A good time is also September to November when some of the most beautiful wildflowers in Western Australia are in bloom and the weather is warming up and hopefully, it is not too wet underfoot!
If you are interested in doing the Cape to Cape track you should check out our posts on the starting town of Dunsborough. Best Things to do in Dunsborough WA will give you a great idea of what not to miss and great accommodations in Dunsborough.
Other Waterfalls in the South West Region
If you haven’t already guessed, we love waterfalls and will always go that extra mile to seek out a beautiful waterfall.
If you’re looking for other amazing waterfalls in the Margaret River region, make sure you read our Margaret River waterfalls post, where we cover visiting amazing waterfalls like Meekadarabee Falls, Quinninup Falls and Yalgardup Falls.
More Amazing Waterfalls in Western Australia (South West Area)
Outside of the Margaret River region, there are more stunning waterfalls to be found! Beelup Falls and Fernhook Falls are our top recommendations. Read our guide to the best waterfalls in Western Australia for more detailed information! Here are my top two recommendations:
Beedelup Falls, Beedelup National Park, Pemberton
At about 10 meters high, Beedelup Falls is very attractive for quite a few months of the year. The good flow of water makes a lovely waterfall sound and runs over several rocky cascades. The whole area is usually beautiful and green, with some stunning karri trees and birdlife.
The easiest way to Beedelup Falls is from a 300-meter walk trail from the car park. There is a very fun suspension bridge that swings over Beedelup Brook and a series of steep stairs around the waterfall. For those with accessibility issues, you can see the falls from a viewing platform, which you can reach with a wheelchair or pram.
If you want something a little longer, the Beedelup Loop Walk offers walk trails from Beedelup Falls to the Karri Valley Resort (or vice versa). It is 4.5k m if you do the whole thing, or you can choose which section you would like to do.
For other things to do in Pemberton, see Best Things To Do In Pemberton WA.
Fernhook Falls, Mt Frankland South National Park Walpole
In the middle of winter, after rain, the power of Fernhook Falls is seriously awesome. The roar of the water powerfully charging over the granite boulders creates an amazing amount of froth.
The falls feel very fearsome in winter. In Summer, the water flow in the Deep River is much less. Sometimes, it is a trickle, but at that time, Rowell’s Pool is very tranquil, and the kids have even swum near the canoe launching site. However, swim with much caution!
The falls don’t thunder over a high vertical drop. They roll over a wide area. So, for us happy snappers, there are lots of angles and little nooks where you can take good snaps.
The water may not drop a great height, but after rain in winter and spring, the horizontal expanse of the main falls and surrounding rapids can be a delightful sight and a delightful sound—one not often experienced in the WA bush.
In winter, the Deep River and Frankland River near Walpole have a very high amount of froth. This is the result of tumbles over the rocks, which churn up the saponin, forming froth and bubbles that pile up in spaces between the rocks and float serenely on the surface of Rowell’s Pool. You can see the same effect in winter at Circular Pool near the Giant Tingle Tree.
There are several boardwalks approximately 500 m long. They offer great views of Fernhook Falls from a safe distance.
There are two ways to access Fernhook Falls:
From Walpole, Take North Walpole Road. Then turn onto Beardmore Road for 34k m and make a day trip by visiting Mt.Frankland.
A Detour from the Southwest highway – it’s 8km in from the highway on Beardmore Road. It is a gravel road that can be quite slippery! Drive with care.
Is it worth the detour? Whether the falls are in full flow or just a trickle, this is a lovely spot in the middle of the Walpole wilderness. You have a sense of being in the middle of nowhere and really “feeling” the bush. For us, that makes it worth a stop.
You can also combine a visit to Fernhook Falls with nearby Mt.Frankland and then finish your day off with a visit to the Swarbrick Art Loop.
If you are looking for a spectacular waterfall, it’s not necessarily that amazing, but there is still plenty of interest.
For other things to do in Walpole, see TOP Things To Do In Walpole Western Australia.
Waterfalls in the Perth Area
If you’re also visiting the Perth area, make sure you read our guide to the best Perth Waterfalls!
The Verdict: Quinninup Falls & Other Short Margaret River Hikes
We’ve provided here everything we did at Quinninup Falls. Plus, we have included our honest assessment of whether it is really worth the hike!
The answer: yes, it is worth it in winter because the falls are quite pretty, and this section of the Cape to Cape is spectacular.
In summer, or when the Quinninup Falls are not flowing, we suggest considering one of the other short Margaret River hikes as a better option. As always, if you have anything to add, please don’t hesitate to comment.
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