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McLean Falls
McLean Falls.jpg
McLean Falls, April 2008
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Location The Catlins, Otago region,
New Zealand
Type Cascade
Total height 22 metres (72 ft)
Watercourse Tautuku River

The McLean Falls are a beautiful waterfall found in The Catlins Forest Park, New Zealand. They are located on the Tautuku River and are known for their impressive drops and terraces. Many people say McLean Falls are the most amazing waterfall in this area.

Discovering McLean Falls

McLean Falls are about 22 meters (72 feet) tall from the very top to where the water first lands. After this main drop, the water continues to flow down several more terraces. While McLean Falls are considered the most spectacular, their "sister" waterfall, Purakanui Falls, gets more visitors because it's easier to reach.

Getting to the Falls

To visit McLean Falls, you'll find the start of the walking track about three kilometers (1.8 miles) off the Southern Scenic Route. This entrance is on a road called Rewcastle Road. The walk to the falls is a great adventure through nature.

What You'll See on the Walk

The path to McLean Falls takes you through different types of native New Zealand forest. You'll see tall Rimu trees and Kamahi trees. There are also areas with tangled shrubs and huge Tree fuchsia plants. You might also spot stands of Olearia and other Podocarp trees. It's like walking through a living museum of plants!

The Path and Duckaday Creek

The walking path is mostly easy to follow. It goes along the Tautuku River valley, offering nice views of the river and the surrounding bush. Along the way, you'll cross a footbridge over a smaller stream called Duckaday Creek. This creek was named by an early settler, Doug McLean. The Department of Conservation takes care of the path, including its boardwalks and footbridges, making sure it's always in good condition for visitors.

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