7 Best Waterfalls in Tasmania

In short, Montezuma falls is absolutely mind blowing and is easily deserving of the number 1 spot in this list! With less than a 3 hour return walk this waterfall is a must see. The easy walking track follows the historic route of the North East Dundas Tramway; a beautiful tribute to the extraordinary tracks that weave through the rainforest. As you follow the lines of history, you can see some of the remnants of the old track and how nature is beginning to reclaim it. Through channels, over bridges and along streams; the walk to the falls is sprinkled with exciting features and photo opportunities. When you reach the falls you can either walk all the way to the base of the 110 meter falls, feeling the spray and power of the sheer drop close enough to touch, or you can take a step back and view the entire falls from the incredible single-file suspension bridge that crosses along the font of the valley.

At the heart of the St. Columba Rainforest these falls cascade 90 meters down a rocky granite cliff face just meters from the track. Yet as incredible as these towering falls are, you could debate that the short 1 hour return walk is even more spectacular. The track guides you through the lush rainforest featuring giant tree ferns, gorgeous bridges and flowing creeks. A perfect short stroll through the rainforest, but it can get a little wet, so check the forecast and dress appropriately.

More than just a hike to a waterfall and back. The short 45 minute return track from the upper carpark passes lookouts for each tier of the Falls while guiding you through towering eucalypts and large tree ferns. As well as the falls don’t forget to check out “The Big Tree”; a giant 50 meter tall ‘Eucalyptus Obliqua’ stringy bark tree, stretching over 3 meters in diameter. This glorious giant is located just a short stroll from the upper carpark. There is also an option to take a longer (6km return) walk from the lower carpark to reach the falls, however you will need to allow at least 3 hours for this walk. Note; the ‘Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service’ states “the road to the upper carpark is not suitable for vans, buses, or caravans”, however in my personal experience I had no trouble with my 2WD LWB Toyota Hiace. Needless to say, any attempt is at your own risk.

Just minutes from the Mount Field National Park Visitors Centre, these falls are arguably the most beautiful AND easiest to get to. Take a lovely stroll along the boardwalk to the base of the falls and then choose to return on the same track or continue across the bridge and follow the creek back for a lovely looped walk. It is also worth noting, being so easy to get to, they tend to attract a lot of attention, so don’t be expecting to have the falls to yourself. Nevertheless, Russell Falls are a statement of beauty, with perfectly naturally aligned tiers creating a visually pleasing vertical appearance. An absolute must see!

Another of Tasmania’s stunning short walks with a little more emphasis on its historic nature. The return track should only take approximately 20 minutes, however it is designed to be more of a stroll through history as it points out the key features of the Tasmanian rainforest over time on signage along the path. I recommend that you allow for a little more time to truly take in the essence of the nature that surrounds you. The falls themselves are nothing short of beautiful as the powerful water cascades over the rocky shelves.

A lovely short walk from the town of Strahan, these falls are made up of two, and sometimes three (depending on rainfall) channels of water cascading down the rocky cliff side by side. Surrounded by the lush green moss and forest with rays of sunshine peaking through the towering trees, the well kept path guides you through a picturesque wonderland.

Despite it’s spectacular size, these falls are seasonal and may depend on rainfall. Beginning right from the side of the Lyell Highway, the boardwalk to the viewing platform hugs the side of the mountain for splendid views throughout the entire walk. The viewing platform gives a fantastic view of the falls and the surrounding hills, however, you are still quite a fair way away from the falls themselves so you won’t be able to feel the spray of these momentous falls. Nevertheless, this lovely short walk is a great way to stretch your legs during your drive along the highway.