Sunshine Falls (Nelson River)

Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National ParkGPS Coords: -42.0990, 145.7347
Land Tenure: National Park

Updated on 08 Nov 2024

Sunshine Falls
© 2015 - 2024 Caedence Kuepper
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Grade 5 Hike
Suitable for very experienced hikers only.

2.1km's2 hours returnRough unformed track No directional signage

No Modification of the natural environment.

Dogs are not allowed
Drones are not allowed
Suitable for caravans
Suitable for campervans and RV's
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About Sunshine Falls (Nelson River)

When looking at Tasmanian topo maps of Nelson Falls, it is noticeable that Nelson Falls are not actually marked at the location of the falls commonly known by that name, but instead at another waterfall about 300 metres upstream. This waterfall is actually (unofficially) Sunshine Falls, named by husband and wife explorers Bryce and Sarah Atkinson in the early 1980's who had also proposed Blossom Falls as the name for the falls now commonly known as Nelson Falls. Technically the name Nelson Falls refers to both the upper and lower waterfalls however they are clearly separate falls worthy of their own names, and it is our belief that Sunshine Falls should be registered as the name for this waterfall given the Atkinson's were the first people to publicise these falls and set in motion the original Nelson Falls Track being established. 

Sunshine Falls itself is a very impressive waterfall in its own right, with a powerful single drop of 25 metres in a gorgeous rainforest setting very similar to its downstream counterpart. Unfortunately, there is no track so access is very difficult and only possible for experienced and prepared bushwalkers. Cross the river at the base of Nelson Falls, then ascend steeply on the northern side of the river towards the top of the falls on steep and sometimes unstable ground. Once at the top, follow the river upstream along the bank, often very steep and requiring extreme care to avoid a tumble into the river below. At low flow it may be possible to find easier routes by crossing or going through the river but in winter and spring this becomes far too difficult to safely attempt. 

After a walk of only about 300 metres but at least half an hour from Nelson Falls, Sunshine Falls suddenly comes into view around a sharp bend in the river. The falls are spectacular, one of the best off track falls in Tasmania, and the mossy rainforest provides a perfect photography location from various different angles. For the really committed explorer the hike can be extended to Twisted Falls further upstream, but Sunshine Falls is a very worthy destination in itself for those well prepared. 

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Previous and Next Waterfall (Alphabetical order)

Svengali Falls

Williamsford (near Rosebery)

Grade 5 HikeGrade 5 Hike

Suitable for very experienced hikers only.

Waterfalls near Sunshine Falls (Nelson River)

Nelson Falls

Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park

Grade 2 HikeGrade 2 Hike

Suitable for families with young children.

Twisted Falls

Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park

Grade 5 HikeGrade 5 Hike

Suitable for very experienced hikers only.

Nelson Steps

Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park

Grade 5 HikeGrade 5 Hike

Suitable for very experienced hikers only.