Quinninup Falls: Hiking to Margaret River's Secret Waterfall

Quinninup Falls used to be a hidden gem in the Margaret River Region. Tucked away on the Cape to Cape track, and a tad more popular these days, this 10-metre waterfall is still one of the most underrated attractions in the area.

Take the scenic hike to visit the falls, admiring the stunning coastal scenery along the way, before an afternoon of wine tasting and good food that the Margaret River Region is best known for.

This guide has all you need to know to plan your own visit to the best waterfall in Margaret River.

Table of Contents

How to get to Quinninup Falls

You’ll find Quinninup Falls in Wilyabrup, about 30 kilometres north of Margaret River.

Quinninup Falls is located along part of the Cape to Cape track. This spectacular 125-kilometre track hugs the coastline between the lighthouses of Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin.

To get to Quinninup Falls, drive to the Moses Rock Car Park.

At the car park, the trail starts on your right with a sign showing the trail ahead.

Quinninup Falls Map — Interestingly, signs label the waterfall as Quininup Falls

Tip: Make sure to put Moses Rock Car Park into Google Maps (located off Moses Rock Rd), not the falls directly otherwise you will be directed to an unsealed, bumpy 4wd track!

Hiking to Quinninup Falls

It is about a 4 km return hike to get to the Falls, with a moderate level of fitness required due to the steep sand dune section that you’ll need to traverse.

The track starts off flat, with stunning coastal views along the way. There is a small bridge to cross over a stream, and even a bench to stop and admire the scenery.

You will then come across a steep sand dune which awaits before the falls. Going down was okay, but this definitely got our legs burning on the way back when we had to go up it!

Curve along to the right and your destination awaits! It took us around 45 minutes to get to the falls, with lots of photo stops along the way.

We saw a few families with younger children beginning the hike as we returned, so it seems suitable for families (however you wouldn’t be able to take a pram).

Dogs aren’t allowed at Quinninup Falls, as it’s located within the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Quinninup Falls is after there has been some rain so the winter and early spring months of June – October would be best for running water in the falls.

Visiting in July 2019, we had clear blue skies and the water was flowing! All the Quinninup Falls photos in this article were taken in July. September is the start of wildflower season in Margaret River, and is one of my favourite times of the year to do this hike.

Visiting in summer there may not be water flowing at the falls, but the hike is still very scenic if you’re willing to take a chance.

Quinninup Falls Waterfall Margaret River

Whilst in the Margaret River Region, check out other popular swimming spots such as the unique Injidup Natural Spa and the amazing snorkelling spot, The Aquarium.

Tips for Visiting the Falls

Make sure you stop and admire the stunning coastal scenery of the hike to the falls. Depending on the time of day you visit, earlier in the day you might spot kangaroos in the distance.
Make sure you take enough water to last you the length of the hike. There is no potable water available.
Toilet facilities are available at the Moses Rock Car Park
If time permits, where the track forks right to the falls you can also head to the left and see where the river meets the sea.
During winter, and after rain, the track can get quite muddy. Make sure you wear appropriate footwear!
Watch out for snakes, especially in the warmer months.

Kangaroos on the cape to cape trail to quinninup falls — Kangaroos spotted on the track!

This spot has become more popular in recent years. I’d recommend making an early start if you want to beat the “crowds” and have a chance to enjoy this place to yourself like we did.

Exploring the beautiful quinninup falls margaret river

Things To Do Nearby

After you’re hike, you are a short drive from some of Margaret River’s best attractions.

One of my favourite wineries, Stormflower Vineyard, is just down the road, and is in good company by neighbours Domain Naturaliste and Cherubino (both spectacular wineries).

Or, head north and pop into the quaint Cape Lavender Tea House. You’re also in close proximity to Gabriel Chocolate and Yallingup Maze & Mini Golf.

Finals Thoughts – Margaret River Waterfall

Quinninup Falls is worth a visit on your next trip to the Margaret River Region.

It never ceases to amaze me how many stunning natural attractions can be found in this area. Whilst Quinninup Falls has become more popular in recent years it’s still worth a visit.

Check out my other guides to make the most of your time in the South West of WA. Happy adventuring!

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Quinninup Falls: Hiking to Margaret River’s Secret Waterfall