Cataract Gorge Reserve is a distinctive natural area in Launceston, Tasmania, characterized by its dramatic dolerite cliffs and the South Esk River. This urban wilderness offers diverse environments, from natural grasslands to woodlands, making it suitable for several sports like hiking, touring cycling, road cycling, jogging, and mountain biking. Its unique geological formations, carved over millions of years, provide a varied landscape for outdoor pursuits. The reserve's convenient proximity to the city center makes it an accessible destination for engaging…
54
Routes
4.7
(31)
Average rating
804
People visited

4.4
(8)
126
hikers
5.21km
01:34
170m
170m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

4.8
(6)
116
hikers
3.39km
01:03
120m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

1.12km
00:18
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

1.51km
00:32
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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45
runners
7.71km
00:51
90m
90m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

19
runners
13.8km
01:40
270m
270m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

15
runners
20.0km
02:05
60m
60m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

13
runners
10.8km
01:12
170m
170m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
40
riders
18.0km
01:39
330m
330m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(3)
29
riders
16.1km
01:24
220m
220m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

8
riders
24.8km
01:51
310m
310m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

29
riders
16.1km
01:37
320m
320m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

21
riders
25.5km
02:16
420m
420m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(1)
17
riders
38.5km
02:36
340m
340m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

17
riders
18.9km
01:43
260m
260m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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19
riders
34.9km
02:02
410m
410m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.

15
riders
19.5km
01:03
160m
160m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

13
riders
89.4km
04:50
960m
960m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.

8
riders
18.6km
01:00
300m
290m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Cataract Gorge Reserve offers a range of outdoor activities including hiking, touring cycling, road cycling, jogging, and mountain biking. The reserve features more than 10 routes, with over 4,000 visitors sharing experiences and an average rating of 4.67 out of 5 stars.
Popular hiking options include the easy, sealed Cataract Walk, a 1.2-mile (2 km) return path, and the First Basin Loop, an easy 1.1-mile (1.8 km) return. For a more challenging experience, the Zig Zag Track offers a steep ascent with panoramic views. More details are available in the Hiking in Cataract Gorge Reserve guide.
Yes, Cataract Gorge Reserve provides family-friendly options. The easy Cataract Walk and First Basin Loop are suitable for families. The reserve also features a public swimming pool during warmer months and open spaces. Consult the Family-friendly hikes in Cataract Gorge Reserve guide for specific routes.
The reserve and its surroundings cater to cyclists with paths along the Tamar River. Options include the Deadmans Knob loop, which is 10 miles (16.1 km), and the West Tamar Trail loop, a more challenging 32-mile (51.5 km) route. Information on cycling can be found in the Cycling in Cataract Gorge Reserve guide.
Key landmarks include the First Basin, the Cliff Grounds with its Victorian-era garden, and the Alexandra Suspension Bridge offering panoramic views. The historic Duck Reach Power Station, now an interpretation center, is also a significant site. The Gorge Scenic Chairlift provides aerial views of the gorge and river.
Cataract Gorge Reserve is approximately a 15-minute walk from Launceston's city center. Public transport options are available, and an inclinator provides accessible pathways for those with limited mobility. Guides like Hikes from bus stations in Cataract Gorge Reserve offer further details.
The specific rules regarding dogs in all areas of Cataract Gorge Reserve can vary. Visitors should check local signage or the City of Launceston's official guidelines for current regulations on pet access.
The reserve offers various facilities including cafes, restaurants, and picnic areas. A public swimming pool is available during warmer months, and the Gorge Scenic Chairlift provides a unique experience. Accessible pathways and an inclinator are also present.
Yes, komoot offers a dedicated guide for running enthusiasts. The Running Trails in Cataract Gorge Reserve guide provides information on suitable routes for jogging within the reserve.
Cataract Gorge Reserve is accessible year-round. The reserve's diverse environments, from grasslands to wet gullies, offer different experiences across seasons. The public swimming pool is open during warmer months.
Cataract Gorge Reserve is managed by the City of Launceston. For inquiries, the customer service phone number is (03) 6323 3000, and the email is contactus@launceston.tas.gov.au. Relevant information can also be found on the City of Launceston's website.
Yes, mountain biking is an activity available in Cataract Gorge Reserve. Specific routes and details for this sport can be found in the MTB Trails in Cataract Gorge Reserve guide.

