La La Falls in East Warburton is a secret in the Yarra Valley. Tucked in the forest, this spot is all about peacefulness, waterfalls and proximity to Mount Donna Buang. Named after Charles Warburton Carr, one of the early settlers of the area, La La Falls is for nature lovers, hikers and families looking for a quiet escape. The track is easy to follow and takes you through the Mountain Ash Forest, which gives you a glimpse into the biodiversity of the Yarra Ranges. Whether you’re after a quickie or a day trip from Melbourne, La La Falls has it all.
Falls Walk
The La La Falls Walk is a 3.2km return walk through some amazing forest. It starts near Park Road and Irruka Road. It is a well-maintained track, and it is a gentle climb for all fitness levels. The path winds through Myrtle Beech and Mountain Ash trees along a forest floor covered in Bootlace Bush and Hazel Pomaderris. You’ll cross cobblestone bridges and pass by old water races that used to supply water to the town. The sound of the water from Cement Creek and the birds in the trees will transport you to another world. As you get to the falls, the track gets steeper, and you’ll get views of the cascading Lala Falls as it flows over smooth rocks into the creek below.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit La La Falls is autumn and spring, when the Yarra Valley is at its best. Autumn has warm tones of gold and red from the Mountain Ash and Myrtle Beech, and spring has an explosion of green and wildflowers on the forest floor. During this time, the water in the creek is flowing, and the weather is mild, so it is perfect for outdoor activities. Winter visitors will enjoy the cool mountain air, but be careful of slippery tracks, especially near river crossings and steep sections. Summer visitors should visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat but still get to enjoy the forest and clear water of the falls.
How to Get There
La La Falls is just a minute from Yarra Junction along the Warburton Highway and 5 minutes from the charming town of Warburton. The trailhead is at the end of Irruka Road, just near the Warburton Waterwheel, the town’s visitor centre. If you’re driving from Melbourne, it’s a 72km scenic drive through the Yarra Valley, and La La Falls is a popular day trip. Public transport options are limited, but you can plan an e-bike adventure at the Cog Bike Café in Warburton or join an affiliate tour with the Warburton Adventure Company. Once you park at the La La Falls Car Park, follow the signs along the walking track to the falls.
What to Expect Along the Trail
La Falls trail is a gentle climb through a magnificent Mountain, Ash Forest, with tree fern-lined gullies. You’ll see several lovely arch bridges and bridle tracks along the way. These bridges, including the swing bridge and railway bridge, add to the fun. The trail has signs with Track Notes that tell the story of the area, flora and fauna. The trail follows the water race and gives a glimpse into Warburton’s early water supply systems. As you walk, you will see Mount Donna Buang and Cement Creek, the lifeblood of the region—moderate vertical gain, so suitable for most walkers, but some steeper sections towards the end.
Flora and Fauna
La La Falls is a nature lover’s dream. The area is home to many native plants and animals, from the tall Mountain Ash and Myrtle Beech trees to the tiny ferns and Bootlace Bush. You may see native wildlife, such as lyrebirds, wallabies and parrots, along the way. The forest floor is covered in fungi and moss after rain, and the tree canopies provide shelter for birds and other fauna. The Yarra Ranges unique ecosystem, fed by streams like Cement Creek, supports the clean water that’s necessary for the local flora and fauna. This is also a habitat for the endangered Leadbeater’s possum, so please be aware of your surroundings, stay on the trail and respect the environment to preserve this national park.
Warburton After the Hike
After the La La Falls Walk, take some time to explore the lovely town of Warburton. There are heaps to see and do. The Warburton Rail Trail is great for cycling or walking, with scenic routes through forests, fields and small villages. Pop into the Warburton Waterwheel, a local hub that showcases local art and history. Grab a snack at the Alpine Hotel Warburton or a meal at one of the cafes along the Yarra River Walk. If you’re feeling adventurous, go mountain biking in the Warburton Valley or visit Redwood Forest and the Britannia Creek Cave. Warburton has natural beauty, outdoor activities and community spirit – what more could you want after your hike?
FAQ
How long is the trail?
3.2km return, 1 hour approx.
Families and beginners?
Moderate, suitable for families with kids and beginners. Some bits are steeper but generally okay for most walkers.
Can I bring my dog?
No, pets are not allowed on the La La Falls trail to protect native wildlife and the environment.
What to bring?
Comfy shoes, water, camera and jacket (for cooler weather). Sunscreen and a hat in summer.
Then head to Warburton’s Warburton Rail Trail, Redwood Forest and Warburton Waterwheel. And great places to eat and other outdoor stuff like cycling and mountain biking.
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