
2. Mitchell Falls
Location: Mitchell Plateau, Kimberley, WA
While many of Australia’s waterfalls could lay claim to the title of “most beautiful”, it’s hard to argue against the gorgeous, multi-tired structure of the Kimberley’s Mitchell Falls.
Long one of the state’s most-photographed locations, as with many Kimberley highlights the falls are exceptionally remote but undeniably beautiful, as their waters cascade over the typical fiery orange-red rock into the awaiting maws of the pools below.
While many of Australia’s waterfalls could lay claim to the title of “most beautiful”, it’s hard to argue against the gorgeous, multi-tired structure of the Kimberley’s Mitchell Falls.
Long one of the state’s most-photographed locations, as with many Kimberley highlights the falls are exceptionally remote but undeniably beautiful, as their waters cascade over the typical fiery orange-red rock into the awaiting maws of the pools below.
Part of the wildlife-rich Mitchell River National Park, its lack of practically any other travellers sharing the view with you is one of the main reasons visiting here is so rewarding.
The beauty of Mitchell Falls is hard to capture in mere pictures – this is particularly so with an “animated” landscape such as waterfalls when much of its draw lies in the sheer power, flow and ambient sound of the tumbling water.
Given its water-based nature, Mitchell Falls is also an attraction that’s best viewed just after the conclusion of the wet season, when the muddy roads have dried yet the water is still flowing at an impressive rate.
While many of Australia’s waterfalls could lay claim to the title of “most beautiful”, it’s hard to argue against the gorgeous, multi-tiered structure of the Kimberley’s Mitchell Falls. The falls are located on the Mitchell River Plateau –accessible by 4WD vehicles.
This creates something of a conundrum when aiming to see the falls at their best; one must try and time a visit to coincide with the bridging period of the wet and dry seasons to strike an ideal balance between water volume and accessibility.
Mitchell Falls are located on the Mitchell River Plateau – a spot that is accessible either by an extensive, multi-day drive by 4WD vehicle on the aforementioned Gibb River Road and then additional on-foot hiking, or by scenic helicopter flights (done by HeliSpirit or King Leopold Air) that take passengers directly to access the falls themselves.
Flying in, and then walking the Punamii-Unpuu Trail which leads to the most famed “photo spot” overlooking Mitchell Falls is a popular option for those short on either energy or time that allows the observing of some excellent Indigenous art sites along the way.
Those looking to extend the stay can opt to pitch at the Mitchell Falls campground that are surprisingly well-equipped given their location; camping spots are large, and eco-toilets are a relative luxury given the distant location from civilisation.
Alternatively, ground-bound tour options for Mitchell Falls that also include accommodation are available through both APT and Outback Spirit Tours for those wanting an extra level of comfort during their visit.
Given its epic outlook, a trip to Mitchell Falls is well worth both the requisite monetary investment by air, and the time investment by wheel. Bring a quality camera along for this one – it’s a memory you’ll want to make last a lifetime.