“Psst, have you heard about Frenchs Creek?” It is not just a place. It is a hidden escape near Sydney. Just a short drive from the CBD, this natural wonder offers a refreshing break.
Frenchs Creek Track lies in Garigal National Park. This is near the northern beaches suburb of Davidson. It is a well-kept secret among hikers. You will feel like you have discovered a hidden paradise.
The 4.5km trail follows Frenchs Creek. It winds through the forest, revealing a series of waterfalls. Red ribbons mark the path. This helps hikers and runners stay on course. The trail culminates at the beautiful Cascades waterfalls.
The best time to visit Frenchs Creek is during the winter months. After a good rain, the waterfalls are at their fullest. The multi-tiered falls of Frenchs Creek come alive. The stream flows strongly. In the dry summer months, they can be seasonal. Sometimes, they are completely dry.
The journey along Frenchs Creek offers a natural soundtrack. Local birdlife and gently flowing waters create a peaceful atmosphere. You will walk past trickling falls. You will also see incredible natural rock formations.
To find Frenchs Creek, head to the end of Wanniti Road in Belrose. A small sign marks the start of the trail. From there, the Frenchs Creek Track descends. It is a downhill walk for about five minutes. This brings you to a side track. The side track leads to the top of the first waterfall.
Continue on the main trail for another 15 minutes. Then, you will hear the second waterfall. An unofficial path leads to the base of the falls. Take extra care here. The path can be steep and rocky.
Adventurous visitors can extend their walk. Frenchs Creek Track joins the Cascade Trail. This eventually leads to The Cascades. Or, you can return via the same route. The round trip takes about 30 minutes.
One visitor described Frenchs Creek as absolutely breathtaking. Another wrote, “So lovely to be in the bush listening to birds, bees, and running water. Can’t believe it’s so close to home.”
Frenchs Creek Falls features two separate drops. Informal trails provide access. The lower, multi-tiered drop is the most impressive.
After a couple of hundred meters, a track leads to the top waterfall. Another path leads to an overhang. This is close to the bottom of the upper falls. After rain, this area can be muddy. You may need to crouch or crawl under the low cave. It lets you get right next to the upper falls.
The lower Frenchs Creek Waterfall is easier to reach. Continue along the Frenchs Creek Track. Pass a small creek and an enormous shelter. After a few hundred meters, you will see the falls through the trees. Look for an unmarked track. It descends to the creek below the falls.
If it hasn’t rained recently, you can walk up the base of the lower falls easily. After heavy rain, the rocks can be slippery. Be careful to avoid leeches.
Frenchs Creek is more than just a hike. It is an immersive experience in nature. The sound of the water. The sight of the falls. The feel of the cool air. It all combines to create a memorable escape from city life. So, next time you need a break, remember Frenchs Creek. It is waiting to be discovered.