Cataract Gorge Circuit – Launceston

A Wild Gorge Right in the Heart of the City

Few Australian cities can claim a wilderness gorge on their doorstep quite like Launceston’s Cataract Gorge Reserve. This rewarding circuit crosses the historic Kings Bridge and Alexandra Suspension Bridge, follows both sides of the South Esk River and visits the famous First Basin.

Along the way, walkers can see the gorge’s chairlift, resident peacocks, landscaped gardens and cliffside swimming pool before returning via the steep and rugged Zig Zag Track.

For a walk beginning barely five minutes from Launceston’s CBD, the sense of wild and dramatic terrain is genuinely surprising.

Walk Overview

See Also

• Duck Reach Power Station Walk
• Tamar Island Wetlands Walk

Terrain

From Kings Bridge, the track follows the northern side of the gorge along a generally well-formed path overlooking the South Esk River. The route passes cliffside viewpoints and continues towards the First Basin, where landscaped gardens, recreational facilities and the chairlift create a striking contrast with the surrounding rock walls.

The Alexandra Suspension Bridge crosses the gorge near the Basin and provides access to the southern side. The return section climbs steeply via the Zig Zag Track before descending towards Kings Bridge.

The Zig Zag Track is the most demanding part of the circuit, with steep switchbacks, uneven stone steps and exposed rocky sections.

Difficulty

The Cataract Gorge Circuit is rated Medium. Most riverside sections are relatively gentle and follow formed paths, but the Zig Zag Track includes a sustained climb that can be tiring for inexperienced walkers.

Walkers who prefer an easier outing can visit the First Basin and return along the same side of the gorge rather than completing the entire circuit.

Walk Highlights

First Basin and Chairlift

First Basin is the recreational heart of Cataract Gorge Reserve. Surrounded by towering cliffs, the area includes landscaped lawns, gardens, a seasonal swimming pool, picnic areas and the famous Cataract Gorge chairlift.

The chairlift crosses above the Basin and provides elevated views across the gardens, river and surrounding cliffs.

Alexandra Suspension Bridge

The Alexandra Suspension Bridge spans the gorge near the First Basin and connects the walking tracks on either side of the river.

The pedestrian bridge offers excellent views along the gorge and is one of the most popular photography locations on the circuit.

Peacocks and Wallabies

Free-roaming peacocks are regularly seen around the landscaped gardens and restaurant lawns near the First Basin.

Wallabies are also common throughout the reserve, particularly during the quieter early-morning and late-afternoon periods.

Top Tip: Begin the walk in the late afternoon on a warm day. This provides time to enjoy the Basin before continuing around the circuit and increases the chance of seeing wallabies and peacocks.

What to Bring

• Comfortable walking shoes with good grip
• Drinking water
• Sun protection, including a hat and sunscreen
• A light waterproof jacket
• A swimsuit and towel during warmer weather
• A camera or phone for the gorge viewpoints

Safety

• Remain on the marked tracks, particularly along the Zig Zag section.
• Take care on steep, rocky and uneven steps.
• Supervise children near cliff edges and steep drops.
• Use caution when crossing the suspension bridge during strong winds.
• Rock surfaces and steps can become slippery after rain.
• Carry drinking water, even though facilities are available near the First Basin.

Is the Cataract Gorge Circuit Suitable for Children?

Yes. The walk is suitable for active children when closely supervised. The gentler gorge-side paths, gardens and First Basin facilities make the reserve particularly popular with families.

Very young children may find the steep steps and sustained climb on the Zig Zag Track challenging. Families can instead walk from Kings Bridge to the First Basin and return along the same route for an easier experience.

Are Dogs Allowed?

Dogs on a lead are permitted in many parts of Cataract Gorge Reserve. However, access restrictions may apply around some gardens, wildlife areas and facilities near the First Basin.

Visitors should follow all signs and keep dogs under effective control, particularly around wildlife, other walkers and busy recreational areas.

Getting There

Cataract Gorge Reserve is located immediately west of central Launceston.

The eastern entrance near Kings Bridge can be reached on foot from the CBD in approximately 10–15 minutes. Kings Bridge is located near Bridge Road and the western end of Paterson Street.

Visitors can also drive to the First Basin area using Basin Road, where parking is available near the main recreational facilities.

Facilities

Facilities around Cataract Gorge Reserve include:

• Public toilets
• Car parking
• Picnic tables and lawns
• A kiosk and restaurant
• A seasonal outdoor swimming pool
• The Cataract Gorge chairlift
• Barbecue facilities
• Walking tracks and viewing areas

The largest concentration of facilities is located around the First Basin.

Why Walk the Cataract Gorge Circuit?

The Cataract Gorge Circuit combines rugged natural scenery, historic bridges, riverside walking, wildlife and Victorian-era parkland within minutes of central Launceston.

It is an excellent option for visitors with limited time, offering a genuine bushwalking experience without requiring a long drive from the city. Whether you complete the full circuit or simply walk to the First Basin, Cataract Gorge is one of Launceston’s most rewarding outdoor attractions.

Important: Track access, dog restrictions and facility opening times can change. Check current local signage and official reserve information before beginning your walk.