Tjaetaba Falls (Greenant Creek) – 2024 Litchfield NP Guide
Set within the beautiful landscapes of Litchfield National Park, Tjaetaba Falls (also known as Greenant Creek) is a lesser-known destination for enjoying the park’s natural beauty. This tranquil getaway is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Litchfield National Park, providing a laid-back escape for those looking to experience the Northern Territory’s stunning landscapes away from the more popular tourist spots.
The Greenant Creek Walk
The adventure begins with the Greenant Creek Walk, a 2.7 km return trail that takes you through Litchfield’s diverse ecosystem. Starting from the Greenant Creek car park, the path leads you over a bridge and into a monsoon rainforest, where you’ll discover towering Carpentaria palms and lush ferns that create a canopy above. The walking track is well-maintained and clearly marked, making it easily accessible for visitors.
As you walk alongside the creek, you might encounter a variety of native wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for local residents such as geckos, lizards, and frogs, and if you’re lucky, you might spot Common Wallaroos visiting the creek for a drink during the cooler hours of the day.
The trail gradually becomes steeper as you approach the lookout. This ascent can be challenging, but the effort is well worth it. The lookout offers a bird’s-eye view of Tjaetaba Falls, where the creek cascades down a 25-metre drop into the valley below.
Swimming at Tjaetaba Falls
One of the most exciting features of Tjaetaba Falls is the swimming hole at the top. After taking in the view from the lookout, continue a short distance further upstream to find this natural pool. The water here is cool and inviting and is perfect for a refreshing dip, especially on a warm day. The surrounding rock formations and natural foliage add to the area’s secluded setting.
However, it’s important you respect the Traditional Owners by only swimming in the designated areas above the falls. The plunge pool at the base is off-limits due to its cultural significance.
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Plan Your Visit to Tjaetaba Falls
Best Time to Visit
Timing your visit to Tjaetaba Falls in Litchfield National Park is important. To fully appreciate its beauty, the falls are most impressive early in the dry season (around June) when the flow is strong but not too dangerous for swimming.
Getting There
Tjaetaba Falls is located just over an hour’s drive south of Darwin. Follow the Stuart Highway, then turn onto Batchelor Road, and continue following signs to Litchfield National Park. The trailhead is located on the northern side of the Greenant Creek car park.
Practical Information
Distance: 2.7 km return
Time: Allow about 1.5 hours for the walk, including time at the lookout and swimming at the top.
Difficulty: Moderate, with some steep inclines.
Facilities: Picnic tables and toilets are available near the car park.
Fees: A Parks Pass is required for all visitors.
FAQs
Q: Is swimming allowed at Tjaetaba Falls?
A: Swimming is allowed, but only in the designated areas above the falls. The plunge pool at the base of the falls is a sacred site, so swimming there is not permitted. Always exercise caution when swimming, as the area is not monitored.
Q: What is the best time of year to visit Tjaetaba Falls?
A: The best time to visit Tjaetaba Falls is during the early dry season, typically from May to June. The falls have a strong flow during this time, and the swimming conditions are ideal. Visiting later in the dry season can be enjoyable, but the water flow may be reduced.
Q: Can I bring my dog on the trail?
A: No, pets are not allowed on the Greenant Creek Walk or within most areas of Litchfield National Park. This is to protect the native wildlife and ensure a safe environment for all visitors.
Q: What should I pack for the hike?
A: For a comfortable experience, pack plenty of water, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), insect repellent, sturdy walking shoes, and a swimsuit if you plan to swim.
Nearby Attractions
While Tjaetaba Falls is a must-see, Litchfield National Park offers a long list of other attractions that are worth exploring:
Wangi Falls
Located just 9 km west of Tjaetaba Falls, Wangi Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in Litchfield National Park. The twin falls cascade into a large plunge pool, perfect for swimming. The area also has picnic facilities and a short walking trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding rainforest.
Florence Falls
Florence Falls is a picturesque twin waterfall surrounded by monsoon forest, located about 20 km from Tjaetaba Falls. The walk to the base of the falls involves descending a series of stairs, but the reward is a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear pool below. There’s also a lookout that provides an excellent viewpoint point for photos.
Tolmer Falls
Tolmer Falls is another beautiful waterfall in Litchfield National Park, located just a short drive from Tjaetaba Falls. The falls drop dramatically over two escarpments into a deep pool below, which is a sacred site and not accessible for swimming. A short walk from the car park leads to a viewing platform.
Buley Rockhole
For those looking to relax in a series of natural plunge pools, Buley Rockhole is a perfect spot. Located near Florence Falls, Buley Rockhole features cascading rock pools ideal for a leisurely swim or a picnic by the water.
Magnetic Termite Mounds
Stop at the Magnetic Termite Mounds on your way to or from Tjaetaba Falls. These fascinating structures stand up to two metres high and are aligned north to south. A short boardwalk lets you view these natural wonders up close and learn more about their unique construction.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to swim or an opportunity to connect with nature, Tjaetaba Falls is worth a visit. Make sure to add this natural wonder to your Litchfield National Park itinerary.
Have feedback on this page? Please comment below if you’ve been to Litchfield National Park and which locations you’d add to this list. Get your daily fix of Northern Territory beauty by following @litchfieldnationalpark on IG or on FB here.
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Cover photo by @kathwilliams_ on IG
