Moura Waterfall Nature Reserve in New South Wales offers visitors a striking natural waterfall surrounded by lush native forest, ideal for hiking, wildlife observation, and nature photography.
Moura Waterfall Nature Reserve is located in the Northern Tablelands of New South Wales, Australia. The reserve is centered around the Moura Waterfall, a dramatic cascade that drops over volcanic basalt cliffs into a cool, shaded gorge. The area features a combination of moist temperate rainforest and eucalypt woodland ecosystems, supporting a variety of native flora including coachwood, sassafras, and tree ferns. Fauna commonly observed includes swamp wallabies, lyrebirds, and diverse bird species endemic to this region, making it a prime spot for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. The reserve has cultural significance for Indigenous peoples, with traditional custodians maintaining connection to this landscape. Recreational opportunities include hiking the well-maintained trails that lead visitors to lookout points over the falls and surrounding valleys, as well as picnicking near tranquil creekside areas. The reserve's relative seclusion ensures a quiet experience for visitors seeking immersion in nature. The moderate climate and high rainfall support vibrant plant life year-round, while the dramatic basalt formations highlight geological processes unique to the region. Moura Waterfall Nature Reserve serves both as a conservation area protecting local biodiversity and a destination for outdoor recreation focused on appreciating Australia's natural and cultural heritage.
Moura Waterfall – a 30-meter waterfall cascading over basalt cliffs
Old-Growth temperate rainforest with towering coachwood trees
Viewing platforms offering panoramic vistas of the waterfall gorge
Secluded creek areas perfect for spotting lyrebirds and other native wildlife
The waterfall flows over distinctive basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity that shape the gorge’s dramatic landscape.
Dense stands of coachwood, sassafras, and ferns create a lush environment supporting diverse plant and animal life.
The reserve is a reliable location to hear and see superb lyrebirds, known for their mimicry and elaborate tail feathers.