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The Hopetoun Falls walk is a short but memorable waterfall walk in the heart of the Great Otway National Park, near Beech Forest. At just 0.8 km return, this out and back walk is ideal for anyone looking for a quick taste of the Otways’ lush rainforest scenery, with towering mountain ash, dense tree ferns and the sound of water echoing through the cool gully below.

The walk begins near the car park with a short stroll to the upper viewing platform. From here, you get a beautiful bird’s-eye view of Hopetoun Falls as it drops around 30 metres into the Aire River. It is a great spot to take in the scale of the falls before continuing down into the valley.

From the upper lookout, the track descends roughly 200 wooden steps through damp forest to the lower viewing area. The stairs make the return climb a little more challenging than the distance suggests, but the reward is one of the most atmospheric waterfall views in the Otways. At the base, Hopetoun Falls is framed by mossy logs, ferns and rainforest, making it a favourite stop for photographers and nature lovers.

Allow around 30 minutes to 1 hour for the return walk, depending on how long you spend at the viewing platforms. The path is well formed, but it can be muddy or slippery after rain, which is common in the Otways. Sturdy walking shoes are recommended, especially for the lower section and the climb back up.

Hopetoun Falls is a short walk, but it packs in plenty of scenery. For visitors exploring the Great Ocean Road, Beech Forest or the waterfalls of the Great Otway National Park, it is well worth adding to the itinerary.

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