Hidden in the forested outskirts of Daylesford and Hepburn Springs lies a pocket of bushland that feels far removed from the busy cafés and mineral spas the area is known for. Brien’s Gorge and Jubilee Falls offer a peaceful blend of rocky creek scenery, gentle cascades, dense eucalyptus forest, and a sense of calm that’s hard to find near such a popular tourist township.
Most people who visit Daylesford never discover this little corner of Hepburn Regional Park — which makes it even more appealing for nature lovers, photographers, and walkers seeking a break from crowds. The walk is short, the scenery shifts constantly, and the waterfall—though seasonal—sits in a beautifully shaded clearing that’s cool even on warmer days.
This is the kind of place you visit not for spectacular, roaring water, but for atmosphere: the rustle of gum leaves, the gurgle of Sailors Creek, and the soft crunch of forest floor underfoot.
Where You’ll Find Brien’s Gorge & Jubilee Falls
Both natural features sit inside Hepburn Regional Park, only a few minutes’ drive from the centre of Daylesford. Despite being close to town, the area feels surprisingly secluded. Once you leave the main road, tall gums close in quickly, and the sound of birds replaces the hum of traffic.
You can begin the walk from two areas:
- The Hepburn Springs Mineral Reserve, which offers a longer route
- A smaller car park closer to Jubilee Lake, which shortens the walk
No matter where you start, the trail leads you into a peaceful pocket of bush that feels worlds away from the nearby township.
A Closer Look at Brien’s Gorge
Before reaching Jubilee Falls, the track brings you to Brien’s Gorge, a narrow rocky passage carved by the flowing waters of Sailors Creek. It’s not a huge or dramatic gorge—rather, it’s a fascinating cluster of granite, moss, and water-worn channels that create a beautifully rugged landscape.
What makes Brien’s Gorge special is its texture:
- Smooth rocks shaped over decades
- Small pools settled between boulders
- Thin rivulets of water weaving through the stone
- Moss and lichen adding deep greens to the grey rock
- Tree roots gripping firmly into cracks and edges
Standing in the gorge, you get the sense that the rocks have slowly reshaped themselves around the creek’s movement over countless years. It’s a place that invites slow exploration. Many visitors pause here for photos, since the light filtering through the tall eucalypts creates soft, diffused shadows perfect for landscape shots.
After rain, the gorge becomes even more atmospheric, with water trickling more confidently across the rock surfaces and creating tiny cascades that photographers love.
Jubilee Falls: A Gentle, Forest-Wrapped Waterfall
A short walk beyond the gorge leads to Jubilee Falls, a small but charming waterfall tucked into a cool, shaded section of the forest. The flow varies dramatically throughout the year. After periods of good rainfall, the water spreads across the entire rock face and drops into the shallow pool below in thin, gentle ribbons.
Even when the flow is light, the falls remain scenic because of the surrounding environment:
- Ferns cluster at the base of the rocks
- A canopy of tall gums keeps the area shaded
- Damp moss brightens the rock face
- Birds dart through the trees and call overhead
- The constant trickle of water adds to the peaceful setting
It’s the kind of waterfall that feels intimate rather than grand. Instead of roaring water, you get a soft, calming soundscape — perfect for visitors who enjoy nature walks that offer serenity rather than energy.
The forest around the falls is incredibly refreshing on hot days, and on winter mornings, thin mist often lingers in the air.
The Walking Track: Distance, Terrain & What to Expect
Trail Length & Difficulty
- Distance: Around 2 km – 3 km round-trip
- Time: 45 minutes to 1.5 hours
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Best For: Families, casual walkers, photographers
The walk is short enough for kids and easy enough for anyone with average fitness, though sections near the gorge may require careful footing because of uneven rocks and natural creek crossings.
Trail Experience
The walk offers a lovely mixture of scenery:
- Open woodland with tall eucalyptus trees
- Shaded gullies filled with ferns
- Rocky creek sections
- Narrow forest paths
- Occasional glimpses of wildlife
As you move along Sailors Creek, the sound of running water accompanies much of the walk. The track is mostly flat, with only minor climbs, but the changing terrain keeps the route interesting.
Expect to encounter:
- Birdlife: kookaburras, rosellas, and grey fantails are common
- Wildflowers: in spring, native blooms add bursts of colour
- Fungi: after wet periods, mushrooms appear in vivid clusters
- Echidnas and small lizards: often seen exploring the undergrowth
The final approach opens into the forest clearing where Jubilee Falls sits, offering a perfect rest point.
When to Visit Explore Brien’s Gorge and Jubilee Falls in Daylesford
Jubilee Falls relies heavily on rainfall, so timing your visit is important if you want to see the waterfall at its most photogenic.
Best Time for Waterflow
- Winter
- Early Spring
- After periods of steady rain
During these times, the rocks glisten with moisture, the creek flows more freely, and the bushland appears greener and more vibrant.
Visiting in Drier Months
Even in summer or early autumn when the falls slow down, the walk remains lovely because:
- The forest provides good shade
- The gorge is still visually striking
- The area feels cool compared to open trails
- Photography conditions are often better in soft light
The reward here isn’t only the waterfall but the overall nature experience.
Things to Do Around Brien’s Gorge & Jubilee Falls
1. Enjoy a Peaceful Bush Picnic
Small clearings along the trail provide wonderful spots to stop for a quiet picnic. Sitting beside the creek while listening to trickling water and rustling leaves is an easy way to unwind. These spots work well for families or walkers who prefer relaxed outings.
2. Take Photos of the Gorge & Falls
For photographers, Brien’s Gorge offers endless compositions:
- Long-exposure water shots
- Rock textures
- Close-ups of moss and ferns
- Reflections in shallow pools
The waterfall itself also photographs beautifully from different angles, especially when the forest is damp and the colours are rich.
3. Explore the Creek Bed
Much of the creek is shallow and easy to walk alongside. Children and adults alike often enjoy hopping between stones, dipping their hands in the cool water, or simply taking in the quiet atmosphere.
4. Combine With a Day in Daylesford
Because the falls are so close to town, they pair perfectly with:
- A visit to Hepburn Bathhouse
- Lunch in Daylesford cafés
- A walk around Lake Daylesford
- A stop at local mineral springs
- Exploring nearby trails like Sailors Falls
It’s an excellent addition to a weekend getaway.
Facilities, Parking & Accessibility
- Parking: Limited but usually adequate near the trail start
- Toilets: Available at the Hepburn Springs Mineral Reserve
- Trail Surface: Natural earth, rocks, and some uneven sections
- Family-Friendly: Yes, though children should be supervised near the gorge
- Dogs: Check current park regulations (generally on-lead only)
The trail is not suited for prams or wheelchairs due to uneven surfaces and narrow paths.
Tips for a Better Experience
- Visit shortly after rainfall for the best waterfall flow.
- Wear sturdy shoes, as the gorge rocks can be slippery.
- Bring water and snacks if you plan to linger.
- Avoid stepping on fragile moss or off-track areas.
- Arrive early on weekends to enjoy the bush in quiet.
Why This Walk Stands Out
Brien’s Gorge & Jubilee Falls may not be as famous as other waterfalls in Victoria, but they offer something special: a feeling of solitude. The track isn’t overrun with visitors, the forest feels untouched, and the mix of gorge, creek, and falls creates a rich experience in a relatively short walk.
You’ll love this walk if you enjoy:
- Softly flowing waterfalls
- Shaded forest trails
- Bush scenery with character
- Nature photography
- Peaceful, uncrowded walks
- Hidden spots away from tourist paths
It’s a refreshing reminder that Victoria’s most memorable nature escapes are often the quiet ones tucked between towns.
Final Thoughts
Brien’s Gorge & Jubilee Falls are the perfect escape for anyone looking to explore a quieter side of Daylesford. Whether you’re wandering through the mossy gorge, enjoying the gentle ambience of the falls, or combining the walk with a visit to local attractions like Lake Daylesford or Hepburn Bathhouse, this little forest trail offers a refreshing break from busy sightseeing. For more stunning waterfall walks in the region, check out spots like Pine Gully Falls, Dandongadale Falls and other Victorian hikes featured on our blog. You can also find updated trail information through Parks Victoria or the Victoria High Country website before planning your trip.
