Upper Puzzle Creek Falls, Hidden Valley - Trip Report

4 September 2022
Leader: Luen Warneke
Group: 4 people

Some walks draw a crowd. Others quietly gather the curious few. Upper Puzzle Creek Falls was one of the latter. Interest was modest, but that suited the tone of the day. Four of us headed into Hidden Valley for a short, exploratory trip to the historic Puzzle Creek Hut and the upper falls beyond.

With prior permission arranged, we drove in via private property, the landscape opening into rolling country framed by ridges and scattered timber. A short walk brought us to the old Puzzle Creek Hut - a simple structure with a surprisingly rich story.

Built in the early 1980s by Andy Jaumes while mining tin in the area, the hut stands as a reminder of the region's mining past. The grevilleas out front were alive with birdlife, honeyeaters flitting between branches. We spent a little time exploring around the shelter, imagining life here decades ago when tin and determination drove people into these valleys.

From the hut, we took to the ridgeline. Rather than following a defined trail, we used the opportunity to practise map and compass skills. Hidden Valley's open terrain makes it perfect for this - defined spurs, subtle contour lines, and just enough vegetation to require thought. It was a relaxed but purposeful navigation exercise, confirming bearings and adjusting lines as we moved toward Upper Puzzle Creek Falls.

The ridge walking was pleasant, with open views across the surrounding country. A short descent brought us into the creek line, where we rock hopped through granite boulders and clear flowing water. The rock formations along Puzzle Creek are sculpted and clean, shaped by years of seasonal flow.

Upper Puzzle Creek Falls itself is modest but beautiful. Water spills over granite ledges into a small pool below, framed by vegetation and rock walls. It is not a dramatic, towering waterfall, but it has a quiet charm that fits the valley.

After taking photos and soaking in the setting, we retraced our steps along the ridge back to the hut. Lunch was enjoyed near the shelter, packs resting against weathered walls that have seen decades of seasons pass.

By early afternoon, we were back in the four-wheel drives and heading out the same way we came in, returning home with that familiar sense of having visited somewhere just a little off the radar. Upper Puzzle Creek Falls might be a short trip, but it offers history, navigation practice, granite creek scenery, and a reminder that even small adventures can feel worthwhile. Sometimes four is the perfect number.

- Luen