Summary

This is a short walk to a waterfall deep in a Strathbogie Forest wet gully of grand Blue Gums .

Description

To experience the forested upper slopes and steep gullies of this part of the Strathbogie Plateau, it is recommended combining this walk with Rocky Ned Walk

Lima Falls, on White Gum Gully Creek, flows best after rain. The steep granite rock face can deliver water splashing over a wide surface area. That being said, this is a pretty walk in its own right even without much water. The eucalyptus forest is beautiful, tall Blue Gums feature. There are also various ferns to admire. Keep your eyes open for wildlife such as Wallaby, Echidna and Koala.

This is an excellent family outing and a great way for kids to burn off some energy while enjoying the bush. Be prepared for a steep climb back up. It is only 600m one way, but this may be gradient enough to challenge those with health issues.

E2 Rd to the car park is a dirt pine plantation road off Police Track. There is a directional road sign at the intersection. The car park itself is close enough to the E2 Rd roadside to be self evident. 2WD access is generally fine. However, if the weather has been persistently wet, All Wheel Drive is a much better bet.

The walk itself is a dirt foot path with arrowed bollards to keep you on track. There is no trailhead sign. The ground is uneven, with some steps cut into the slope and rocks along the way. At approximately half way you can deviate a short distance left to the top of the falls. Beware, it is slippery when wet and it is a long way down! A look is one thing, but closer exploration is probably best for sensible and surefooted adults. There is a sign warning of unstable cliffs as well, so you can't say you weren't warned. It is recommended you stick to the track for getting to the bottom.

As you continue along the track, it takes you through the bracken covered upper slopes of the forest into the wet gully. Aerosols from the constant impact of water on rock create a humid environment suitable for rock and tree ferns, then the water finds its way past the rocky base and transforms back into a ferny bubbling creek.

Amenities
Car parking
Directional signs
Flora & fauna habitat

Camping
Strathbogie Forest camping is permitted at Ruoaks & James Reserve
Camp site minimum is 20m from water

Cautions
Cliff faces
Open water
Steep climbs
Rocks may fall
Limbs may fall
Embankments
Uneven ground
No potable water
Slippery surfaces
Snakes may be active
Carry food, water, be SunSmart
Be equipped for self-reliant hiking 
Mobile reception may be unreliable
Be mindful to keep within the Reserve

Restrictions
Dogs must be leashed and under control at all times
Take rubbish with you
Native flora & fauna are protected
Do not remove timber from standing trees
Use fireplaces where provided
Closed on days of total fire ban
No 4WD or motor bike access
Drivers/riders must: be registered, licensed, stay on formed roads

2887 Views

Points of Interest

1. The car park

It is impossible to miss the small car park. you just have to make sure you drive far enough down the road to find it. If wet, AWD is recommended.

2. The granite

It is just special.

3. The walking track

The dirt track takes on a steeper gradient as you get closer to the falls. There are some gravelly and rocky areas to navigate. Bollards ensure you keep on track.

4. Warning sign

There are cliffs, edges and steep rock faces if you try to climb down the falls instead of taking the walking track. Some may be unstable and slippery. You have been warned.

5. Top of the falls

The track deviates to the left to walk a short distance to the top of the falls. The rocks can be slippery and it is a long way down! Not such a good place to take small children.

6. The locals

You are likely to come across some of the local wildlife living within this grand Blue Gum habitat. Being quiet and mindful of your surroundings will help to spot them.

7. Fishbone Water Fern

There is a lot to find in amongst the granite slabs, boulders and cracks. If you are a fan of ferns you will be pleased.

8. Maidenhair

The moist rock face not only presents a fall of cascading water, cascading falls of Maidenhair fern appear as well.

9. The falls

The granite is steep and broad. After rain, water spreads right across the face in an impressive display. In drier months flow can diminish significantly, but the walk is a pleasure in its own right.

10. Tree ferns

At the bottom of the falls the bubbling creek provides plenty of humidity for cool climate tree ferns.

11. Below and beyond

If you feel like exploring further, you can venture along the creek as it tumbles further down the cool, moist gully. The banks are ferny, the bush fairly open. Follow the creek back to the walk.

Features

Nature trail

Lake, creek, river