Your Guide to Cataract Gorge Adventures
Nestled just minutes from the heart of Launceston’s CBD in Tasmania (and all the more unusual because of this central location), Cataract Gorge is one of Tasmania’s most famous natural attractions.
This spectacular slice of wilderness is home to rugged cliffs, lush native bushland, a tranquil river, and walking tracks that wind their way through some of the most breathtaking scenery in northern Tasmania.
Our comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to plan your visit to Cataract Gorge.
Why Is Cataract Gorge a Must-Visit in Launceston?
Imagine standing on a suspension bridge strung high above a natural river, with towering cliffs and green bushland on all sides. That’s Cataract Gorge: a place where nature and city collide. Just a 15-minute stroll from the city centre (or a 5 to 10-minute drive), this reserve feels like a world away from Launceston’s urban buzz.
Cataract Gorge is more than just a scenic lookout—it’s a haven for wildlife, including native wallabies. It's also ideal for adventure seekers and those looking for outdoor relaxation.
Estimated to be over 140 million years old, Cataract Gorge is one of the few places worldwide where you can ride a chairlift across a gorge. In the same afternoon, you might spot peacocks strolling beside manicured gardens, or cool off with a riverside swim.
What Can You See and Do at Cataract Gorge?
Cataract Gorge in Launceston is divided into two main sections: First Basin (the main activity hub) and the Cliff Grounds, a more serene garden area on the opposite side. If you’re planning your Cataract Gorge adventure for your upcoming Tasmania visit, you must add these activities to your itinerary:
Credit: Discover Tasmania
Walk Across the Suspension Bridge
Spanning the South Esk River, the Cataract Gorge Alexandra Suspension Bridge is a rite of passage for first-time visitors (and return trekkers). It offers panoramic views of the basin and surrounding rock formations and makes for a truly memorable photo spot.
If you’ve searched for Cataract Gorge adventures or activities before, chances are you’ve stumbled across Instagram-worthy photos of thrilled travellers on the famous Suspension Bridge.
Things might feel a little rickety as you cross, but rest assured, everything is safe and sound. And on the other side, lush native forest and bushland await (with a few curious critters likely waiting to greet you from a distance).
Ride the Gorge Chairlift
One of the most iconic experiences at Cataract Gorge in Launceston is taking a ride on the Gorge Chairlift. It’s famous for being the longest single-span chairlift in the world, making it a must-do for visitors of all ages. Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the river, bushland, and grassy lawns below. It's an unforgettable way to travel between the two main areas of the Gorge.
With a total span of 457 metres—including the longest single span of any chairlift in the world (308 metres)—this leisurely ride connects the main entrance near Basin Road with the beautifully landscaped Cliff Grounds on the opposite side. The pace is deliberately slow, allowing guests of all ages to relax and fully appreciate the landscape from above.
Local Tip: If you're not too flash on heights, don't panic; we still recommend trying the Gorge Chairlift. It will certainly test your comfort zone (especially if you travel from the Cliff Grounds to First Basin, which is typical for most guests—the ride is at a steady incline), but the unmatched vistas and lifelong memories will make this thrill absolutely worthwhile.
Cataract Gorge Reserve & Cliff Grounds
On the northern side of the basin, you'll find the Cliff Grounds, a 19th-century Victorian garden carved into the rockface. It’s full of winding paths, exotic plants, sculptures, and even resident peacocks and pademelons. The contrast between the cultivated gardens and the surrounding bushland is simply stunning.
Walking tracks link to the Cliff Grounds, including a path to the chairlift station, and a car park is accessed by Gorge Road through Trevallyn. If either the chairlift or the Alexandra Suspension Bridge is your primary pitstop, we recommend parking here for the easiest and quickest access.
Swim at Cataract Gorge
Yes, you can swim at Cataract Gorge! There's a public outdoor swimming pool near the main basin, ideal for warmer months. If you prefer natural swimming, there are also designated spots along the riverbank.
The First Basin pool typically opens from November to March each year. These dates are subject to change in the event of severe weather conditions.
How to Get to Cataract Gorge from the City Centre
If you're staying at Hotel Grand Chancellor Launceston, you can drive to Cataract Gorge in less than 10 minutes. You can also catch local buses or hire a bike for a breezy ride to the entrance.
For those arriving by car, there’s ample parking near the First Basin car park, although it can fill up on weekends and during school holidays, so try to arrive early.
Are There Walking Trails for All Fitness Levels?
Absolutely! Cataract Gorge caters to everyone, from casual strollers to seasoned hikers. Despite the gorge being a historically recognised national park with plenty of wilderness to explore, there are options to suit all ages and abilities.
Credit: Emilie Ristevski via Discover Tasmania
Cataract Walk
This is the most popular and accessible track. Starting from Kings Bridge, it’s a relatively flat 1km path that follows the cliff’s edge with incredible views. It takes about 30–40 minutes round-trip and is suitable for most fitness levels.
Zig Zag Track
For something more challenging, the Zig Zag Track on the southern side of the gorge climbs steeply through native bush. It connects back to the First Basin and takes around 45 minutes one way.
Duck Reach Trail
This moderate 6km return walk leads you to the Duck Reach Power Station, one of the earliest hydroelectric stations in Australia. It’s part historical site, part scenic trail—and perfect for those wanting a bit more adventure.
Keen to explore more walking and hiking trails around Launceston? Check out this guide.
Where Are the Best Picnic Spots in the Gorge?
Whether you pack your own hamper or grab takeaway from a local café, Cataract Gorge is filled with inviting picnic spots. These are some of our favourites:
- First Basin Lawn: Wide grassy space near the pool with picnic tables and shaded areas.
- Cliff Grounds: Ideal for a peaceful escape with garden surrounds and fewer crowds.
- Lookout Platforms: Several elevated points along the walking trails offer beautiful places to rest and snack with a view. Just be aware of other walkers and tourists passing by.
Local tip: Stop by Launceston’s Harvest Market on Saturday morning and pick up fresh local cheeses, breads and fruits for your picnic basket.
Can You Spot Wildlife at Cataract Gorge?
Definitely! Cataract Gorge is home to a wide variety of native flora and fauna. You’re likely to spot:
- Wallabies and pademelons (wallabies especially are in abundance, even near the chairlift entry and exit points, so keep a close eye out)
- Wild peacocks and ducks (especially near the Cliff Grounds)
- Rare birdlife along the riverbanks
- Even the occasional platypus by the river if you’re very lucky (and very quiet)
Local tip: Bring binoculars and take your time. Wildlife sightings are one of the gorge’s great joys, but you’ll have much more luck if you’re quiet, still, and not in a rush.
What’s the History Behind Cataract Gorge?
While Cataract Gorge in Launceston feels untouched, its beauty is as much about human vision as it is natural wonder. In the late 1800s, the area now known as the First Basin was mostly swamp, complete with plenty of mosquitoes.
By 1890, local volunteers took matters into their own hands. Equipped with red paint, pickaxes and even dynamite, they carved out walking trails along the cliffs. Their hard work transformed the Gorge into one of Tasmania’s earliest public leisure spaces.
By the 1890s, the Gorge featured landscaped Victorian gardens and a rotunda for concerts. Later, two landmark bridges were built: Kings Bridge and the Alexandra Suspension Bridge. These bridges connected both sides of the basin, making Cataract Gorge easily accessible.
Just upstream, the historic Duck Reach Power Station, opened in 1895, became one of the first publicly owned hydroelectric plants in the world. Today, it stands as a museum and reminder of Launceston’s innovative past.
Dining and Local Attractions Nearby
After a day of adventure, head back into Launceston’s city centre to enjoy a well-earned meal or some local retail therapy.
- Seaport precinct: A short walk from the gorge, filled with cafés, restaurants, and bars along the riverfront.
- Harvest Market: Held every Saturday morning, it’s a local institution for foodies.
- Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery: Great for a cultural fix before or after your hike.
- Tamar Valley Wine Route: If you’re extending your trip, this nearby region is home to some of Tasmania’s finest vineyards and cellar doors.
Are There Any Tours Available?
Absolutely! You’ll find a mix of independent and guided tours throughout the Cataract Gorge reserve and wider area:
Self-Guided Walking Tour
The most famous Cataract Gorge tour is a self-guided walking tour and takes 2-3 hours at a leisurely pace. Developed by the City of Tasmania, the Cataract Gorge Launceston Walking Tour covers key landmarks throughout the wilderness area via a loop.
- You’ll start at King’s Park, a beautiful riverside parkland beside the Tamar River (near the Penny Royal Watermill).
- Cross the historic Kings Bridge, a wrought-iron bridge built in 1864. You’ll then enter the “official” Cataract Gorge and begin the trails.
- Explore the North Side Gorge Path and Lookout. Meander along the riverbank into the heart of the gorge, with a scenic lookout offering elevated views.
- You’ll then reach First Basin, a central hub featuring landscaped gardens, Cascade Lawn, the scenic chairlift entry point, the swimming pool, kiosk, and public toilets.
- Continue onto Duck Reach Power Station. Visit the on-site museum housed in Tasmania’s first hydroelectric station (1895), then explore adjacent tranquil trails.
- Enjoy a breathtaking ride on the Chairlift or cross the famous Alexandra Suspension Bridge. To cross back over, you can take an incredible ride on the world’s longest single-span chairlift or walk across the bridge near First Basin. Want to do both? You can always hop back on the Chairlift to return for a walk across Alexandra Bridge!
- Finally, on the southern cliff side, hike the Zig-Zag Track and make your way back to King’s Park to complete the loop.
Cataract Gorge Cultural Tour
Credit: Discover Tasmania
For travellers seeking a deeper connection to Launceston’s ancient landscape, the Cataract Gorge Cultural Tour from Kooparoona Niara Tours is an immersive, guided experience worth every cent.
This 3-hour guided walking tour begins with a traditional Welcome to Country ceremony, using locally sourced ochre. You'll then explore culturally significant sites like the striking dolerite “Guardians of the Gorge” and the Tulampanga (Alum Cliffs), places sacred to Indigenous Tasmanians for over 200 million years.
The tour also includes a free shuttle to the First Tasmanians Exhibition at the Queen Victoria Museum & Art Gallery for a complete cultural experience.
The $150 Cataract Gorge Cultural Tour runs weekly and is best booked in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
Cataract Gorge Cruise
Need a walking break? If you're keen to see Cataract Gorge from an entirely new perspective, consider the Cataract Gorge Cruise by Tamar River Cruises. This 50-minute journey aboard the elegant Lady Launceston glides smoothly into the heart of the gorge using a quiet electric drive, allowing uninterrupted views of the towering cliffs and cascading waters.
Cruises depart daily from Home Point cruise terminal, only five minutes by car or a 15-minute walk from Hotel Grand Chancellor Launceston. During the cruise, you'll pass scenic landmarks such as Kings Wharf and the Seaport precinct, before heading deep into the Gorge.
From your comfortable vantage point, the expert skipper shares lively stories about the area’s natural and cultural history. It’s a peaceful yet enriching experience suitable for all ages, perfect for those seeking a relaxed way to connect with Cataract Gorge and the wider Tamar River region.
Ready to Explore Cataract Gorge?
With its stunning views, accessible trails, and peaceful energy, Cataract Gorge is a truly unique place that invites you to slow down, look around, and reconnect with nature.
And when you stay at Hotel Grand Chancellor Launceston, you’re never far from the action. Enjoy premium comfort, friendly service and a central location that puts Tasmania’s natural beauty and city charm at your doorstep.
Book your stay today and start planning your Launceston adventure, with Cataract Gorge right around the corner.
Cataract Gorge FAQs
Credit: Discover Tasmania
What facilities are there at Cataract Gorge?
You’ll find everything you need for a comfortable day out, including:
- Toilets and baby-changing facilities
- Picnic tables and barbecues
- A food outlet, The Gorge Kiosk, near First Basin
- Accessible walking paths and chairlift access (wheelchair assistance may be needed)
- Ample signage and maps to help guide your visit
- Parking facilities
- Play area
- Accessible ramp, toilets and parking
*Note that The Basin Café, Cataract Gorge’s long-standing café and restaurant, has unfortunately closed as of 2025. The Kiosk, however, remains open for food and drink.
Is Cataract Gorge free to enter?
Yes! Entry to Cataract Gorge, Launceston, is completely free, including access to walking trails, the gardens, and picnic areas. The chairlift and swimming pool may have a small fee, but overall, it’s one of the best-value attractions in Tasmania.
What's the best time of year to visit Cataract Gorge?
Each season brings its own beauty:
- Spring (Sep–Nov): Wildflowers bloom, and temperatures are mild; great for walking.
- Summer (Dec–Feb): Ideal for swimming and picnics, though it can get busy.
- Autumn (Mar–May): The changing colours are spectacular, and the crowds thin out.
- Winter (Jun–Aug): Quieter, peaceful, and misty; perfect for photographers and those seeking solitude.
Plan to arrive in the morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
What should I bring for a day at Cataract Gorge?
To make the most of your visit, we recommend:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- A refillable water bottle
- A picnic rug or snacks
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- A jacket (Tasmania’s weather can change quickly)
- A camera or binoculars if you’re into wildlife spotting
- Plenty of space on your camera roll for snaps