Top 10 Waterfalls In Tasmania: Discover Wilderness Wonders & Scenic Spots

A stream of water flowing through a dense and green forest, over moss-covered rocks.

Tasmania, an island state of Australia known for its tranquil coastlines and soothing wilderness, is a gem for all nature lovers. The waterfalls in Tasmania are a spectacle to behold for their incomparable beauty and serene atmosphere. These captivating waterfalls are where heaven meets earth, and the journey to them is often adventure-filled, with light trekking and sightseeing. The maintenance and development of these tourist spots make Tasmania a beloved place for all visitors.

Top 10 Waterfalls In Tasmania

To water – hop, this curated list of waterfalls in Tasmania is your best bet, as each one is unique and exquisite in its own way:

1. Russell Falls

Rainforest surrounding the Russell Falls cascading over vertical columns of rocks.

Photo: Noodle snacks / Wikimedia Commons

Russell Falls, located near the Mount Field National Park, is a sight to behold. It holds a journey through the rainforest surrounding it and the final view of a curtain of water cascading into a pristine pool. This waterfall is iconic for its double layer of sandstone and Marine Permian siltstone over which the waterfall tumbles down. The walking track towards the falls is paved, thus making it completely accessible. This well-maintained track also makes it possible for people of all ages to walk easily towards the falls and enjoy the view.

Location: Central Highlands
Highlight: Wheelchair – accessible

2. Nelson Falls

Streams of water flowing over a step-like rock formation, surrounded by trees and ferns.

Photo: JJ Harrison / Wikimedia Commons

If you just want to escape to nothing but greenery and wilderness, then Nelson Falls is a must-visit for you. This waterfall is located inside a UNESCO World Heritage-listed area, making it one of the most famous waterfalls in Tasmania. With a whopping 30-meter height, Nelson Falls resembles an ancient temple, owing to its unique step-like formation. The wildlife surrounding the Nelson Falls is abundant in giant ferns, Sassafras trees and myrtle flowers.

Location: West Coast
Highlight: Short and easy walk through a broad walkway

3. Liffey Falls

Curtains of water flowing in a layered fashion over rocks, surrounded by the rainforest.

Photo: JJ Harrison / Wikimedia Commons

Liffey Falls is one of the most iconic waterfalls in Tasmania due to its multilayered formations. This waterfall has historical significance as it used to be the meeting place for Aboriginal people before colonisation. In the early 1800s, more than 50 Aboriginal people were massacred during the Black War at the Liffey Falls. Combined with its place in Australia’s history and its unique landscape, Liffey Falls is a must-see for anyone visiting Tasmania. The water from the plateau flows to the Liffey River over beautiful sandstone steps, giving it its distinguished multi-level appearance. Each tier of this 4-tiered waterfall has a different name. From down to up, it is named Alexandra Falls, Hopetoun Falls, Albert Falls and Victoria Falls, respectively.

Location: Midlands
Highlight: 2 separate walkways, one above and one below the waterfalls

4. Delaneys Falls

Water flowing through large moss-covered boulders, surrounded by plants and tree roots.

Photo: Psypherium / Wikimedia Commons

Delaneys Falls, also called Preston Falls, is the perfect destination for adventure lovers. To reach this waterfall, you will have to hike through a moderately isolated and fairly challenging but well-maintained route. Delaneys Falls has a height of 25 meters, and it cascades over magnificent boulders. Set against a backdrop of blackwood forest, this waterfall is a picture-perfect spot. You can also explore off-track areas and enjoy your time near Preston Creek. The total hike to Delaneys Falls takes more than three hours, so be sure to dress comfortably and pack plenty of water and snacks.

Location: North West Tasmania
Highlight: Lookout point on top of the cliff overlooking the waterfall and a gorge

5. Horseshoe Falls

Columns of water falling over a curve-shaped landscape onto rocks covered in moss.

Photo: Psypherium / Wikimedia Commons

Horseshoe Falls, true to its name, is a horseshoe-shaped waterfall, making it the most picture-perfect waterfall in Tasmania. Located 100m from the Russell Falls in the Mount Field National Park, this cascading beauty falls in layers. Horseshoe Falls resembles an amphitheatre and has a combination of siltstone and sandstone layers, giving it its distinctive look. The walkway to the falls is short and has informational boards describing the plants and wildlife surrounding it.

Location: Mount Field
Highlight: Wheelchair – accessible

6. Pelverata Falls

A tall and narrow waterfall tumbling over a rocky cliff, surrounded by trees and plants.

Photo: Cowirrie / Wikimedia Commons

Pelverata Falls is a popular waterfall in Tasmania, beloved by nature enthusiasts and photographers. This scenic waterfall can be reached after a hike through a beautiful landscape of framing tracks, eucalyptus trees and a dense rainforest. Once you reach the end of the trail, you will have a breathtaking view of a 114-meter-tall, magnificent waterfall. The viewing platform at the end overlooks the falls and the nearby creek. The hike to Pelverata Falls takes around 2 hours, but you can always spend more time exploring the area around. If you are an experienced hiker, you can take the path towards the creek, which starts below the viewing platform.

Location: Snug Tiers Nature Recreation Area, Pelverata
Highlight: One of Tasmania’s tallest waterfalls

7. Snug Falls

Water flowing over a rocky cliff onto a stream surrounded by tree logs and vegetation.
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Photo: JJ Harrison / Wikimedia Commons

Snug Falls is a gorgeous waterfall framed by fallen logs, snuggled between a cliff and a rainforest. This waterfall is located just outside the Snug township and is a popular spot for nature photographers. The hike to the falls is just over 2 km, making it easily accessible for everyone. The walkway goes through a gully below the falls and is lined with sclerophyll forest and giant ferns. What makes this trail special is the benches and shelters made for visitors. Snug Falls is the most offbeat waterfall in Tasmania, thus making it a perfect getaway for travellers who prefer quiet and secluded places.

Location: Snug Falls Track, Snug
Highlight: Family and pet-friendly

8. Dip Falls

A narrow stream of water flowing over horizontal rows of rock formations into a pool.

Photo: Didier B (Sam67fr) / Wikimedia Commons

Flowing over a column of cubic-basalt-formed rocks, this giant waterfall is in its gloriest form during winter. Even though this waterfall might be overlooked by tourists, the sound of the waterfalls can be heard miles away. If you would like to see the rock formation under the foaming water, it is better to pay a visit during the summer. Then, the density of water significantly reduces, revealing the hexagonal rock column underneath. The lookout to the waterfall has a properly maintained and wheelchair-accessible trail leading to it.

Location: Mawbanna
Highlight: Near the “Big Tree” – a gum tree with 17m girth

9. St. Columba Falls

A cluster of yellow mushrooms growing on a tree log that is over a stream of water.

Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons

St. Columba Falls is a natural heritage area situated in the Pyengana village. What sets St. Columba Falls apart from other waterfalls is that it falls over a series of hills rather than over a cliff. It is one of the tallest waterfalls in Tasmania as it plunges from its foothill around 90 m down. It has paths leading to the bottom and to the top of the falls. The trail is suitable for people of all ages, and it is slightly hilly with periodic steps. If you are lucky, you might even see some platypuses around the creek.

Location: St Columba Falls Road, Pyengana
Highlight: Year-round consistent flow and picnic area nearby

10. Hogarth Falls

Two streams of water cascading into a pool with tree logs surrounded by giant ferns.

Photo: BriYYZ / Wikimedia Commons

Hogarth Falls is situated near the People’s Park in the coastal town of Strahan. It is a lovely waterfall nestled between gum trees and leatherwood. The trail to the falls is a short walk and is the best destination for family trips. This trail winds along the Botanical Creek, and you will be able to get a glimpse of the variety of rare flora and fauna surrounding it. One of the rare creatures you can see here is the platypus. What makes Hogarth Falls special is that the water here flows over vertical rocks that were once horizontal.

Location: Hogarth Falls Track, Strahan
Highlight: It is near a camping area complete with barbeque space and no-flush toilets.

One can never get bored of the sound and sight of flowing water. Waterfalls in Tasmania offer an almost spiritual experience just for that reason. From gorgeous rock formations to layered falls, falling from cliffs to an array of hills, the Tasmanian falls are sights to behold. Book your tickets to Tasmania with TripXL now and explore this magic created by water.

Cover Photo: Flying Freddy / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

You should wear comfortable and hike-friendly clothing and pack waterproof jackets and boots when visiting a waterfall. You can also carry mosquito repellants, bottled water and a change of clothes in case you plan on swimming.
Yes, you can swim in some waterfalls in Tasmania, such as the Snug Falls and the Liffey Falls. However, it is advised that you check the depth of the pool and the weather conditions before swimming.
Most popular waterfalls in Tasmania, like the Russell Falls and Nelson Falls, are accessible throughout the year. However, some regional waterfalls might be hard to reach during winter or after heavy rains.
Waterfalls that are located within national parks usually require a park pass. You can get day or holiday passes from the Parks and Wildlife Service.
Yes, waterfalls in Mount Field National Park have day trips and multi-day adventure options available. There is also a Rainforest and Waterfall guided tour, which takes you to some of the most offbeat and best waterfalls.

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