Barrs Falls is the closest waterfall to Owaka but is less well-known than the famous Pūrākaunui Falls, Matai Falls, and Mclean Falls in the Catlins. The track to the waterfall is a short drive southwest on the Southern Scenic Route to gravel Barrs Falls Road (turnoff before Catlins Lake), then a 4 km drive through attractive pastoral farmland before entering a section of old forest. The waterfall is signposted as the road ascends from the valley into the hills. Parking is available for several cars at the start of the track, and the falls are a 10-minute walk along an easy path to a viewing platform where two waterfalls converge.
The short walk through the forest is a stunning introduction to the Catlins rainforest. If nothing else, it will whet your appetite for the many more superb walks to come.
