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Killen Falls Walk, Tintenbar

Killen Falls is a short and scenic waterfall walk in Tintenbar, in the Ballina hinterland of northern New South Wales. Tucked away in a lush pocket of rainforest along Killen Falls Drive, this beautiful waterfall is one of the most accessible nature stops between Ballina, Lennox Head and Byron Bay.

From the car park, a short 330 metre walk leads through dense greenery to the top of Killen Falls. The lookout provides views over the waterfall and the pool below, making it a great option if you only want a quick stop or are visiting with children. The surrounding rainforest forms part of the Big Scrub, a once vast subtropical rainforest that now survives in small but important pockets across the Northern Rivers.

For a closer view, continue along the steeper track down to the base of the falls. This lower section gives you the best perspective of Killen Falls, with water dropping over the rock ledge into a deep pool surrounded by rainforest, vines and mossy stone. There is also a small cave-like overhang behind the waterfall, which makes this one of the more atmospheric waterfall spots near Ballina.

Although the walk is short, the track down to the base can be slippery, uneven and muddy after rain. Take care on the descent, wear sturdy shoes and avoid climbing on wet rocks around the waterfall. The top lookout is the easiest part of the walk, while the lower track is better suited to visitors who are comfortable with rougher surfaces.

Killen Falls is a popular spot for photography, picnics and a quick rainforest escape. It is especially beautiful after rain, when the waterfall is flowing strongly, but this can also make the track and rocks more slippery. Facilities at the trailhead include parking and public toilets, although parking can be limited at busy times.

For visitors exploring the Ballina hinterland, Tintenbar or the waterfalls near Byron Bay, Killen Falls is well worth adding to the itinerary. With easy access, rainforest scenery and a dramatic waterfall at the end, it is one of the best short waterfall walks in the Northern Rivers region.

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