Trail Fast Facts
Cascades walking track and viewing platform is an 800m, grade 3 hike in Wadbilliga National Park, New South Wales. This hike typically takes 40 minutes to complete.
Hike Overview
A short easy walk takes you to a viewing platform where you can watch the spectacular Tuross River tumble over boulders into a beautiful pool that makes for a gorgeous spot where you can swim, splash and cool down on a hot summer's day.
The pool is surrounded by a diverse range of plant life, from dwarf she-oaks and stunted mallee formed eucalypts on the dry ridge tops, to majestic white trunked ribbon gums on the river banks. Greater gliders can be spotlighted at night. You may also be lucky enough to see some of the larger owls such as the powerful owl and sooty owl, which depend on gliders for prey. There is also an abundance of other birds in the area.
This tranquil swimming hole has good gravel road access, as well as picnic facilities, making it a perfect spot for a day trip getaway.
Tips
Remember to take your binoculars if you want to birdwatch
A current NSW recreational fishing licence is required when fishing in all waters
There is no mobile reception at the Cascades precinct and very limited mobile reception in this park.
If you are bushwalking in this park it is a good idea to bring a topographic map, compass and a GPS.
Check the weather before you set out as the road to Cascades can become boggy when it rains.
For more information, please contact the Bombala office on (02) 6458 4080 between 9am and 12.30pm Monday to Friday.
Visit NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service for more information on this trail.
The longitude and latitude of the start and end points are approximately only and should not be used for navigation purposes. Please contact me if you know the correct coordinates.
Map and GPX file
Looks like I don’t have a GPX file for this trail yet. If you have one you’d be willing to share, please email it to me so we can help other hikers have a safer, easier time out there. I’ll double-check each file to make sure it aligns with official tracks and topo maps before adding it to this hike. Thanks so much for helping build an even better hiking resource.
Trailhead
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Track Grade
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
Getting there
To Tuross Falls carpark. Cascades walking track is in the Cascades precinct of the Wadbilliga National Park. To get there From Canberra:Head south towards Cooma on the Monaro Highway. Exit just north of Cooma, turning left onto Polo Flat Road and then left again after crossing the train line onto Numeralla Road.Follow this for about 40 minutes, then turn right onto Badja Forest Road, which turns onto a dirt road immediately after the turn-off.From here, follow the signs to Cascades by turning right onto Peters Road and then right onto Tuross Falls Road. Follow the Tuross Falls Road to the end, where you will find a parking area. Park entry points Tuross Falls carpark See on map Parking Parking is available on Main Road, a short walk from the walking track.
Photo gallery
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
Suggest an edit
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
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Looking for things to do in Wadbilliga National Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
Let someone know
Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Weather
Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.