Guide Falls Walk – Ridgley

A Quick, Easy Waterfall Just Outside Burnie

Located just 20 minutes south of Burnie, Guide Falls is one of the most accessible waterfalls on Tasmania’s North West Coast. A short, well-maintained walking track leads to viewing platforms above and below the picturesque cascade.

With picnic facilities, toilets and easy access from the car park, Guide Falls is a popular stop for families, photographers and travellers exploring the Burnie region.

Whether you’re looking for a short scenic break or a relaxing picnic beside the water, this easy walk offers a rewarding experience with very little effort.

Walk Overview

See Also

• Leven Canyon Lookout Walk
• Dip Falls Walk

Terrain

The walk follows a wide gravel path from the lower car park through attractive bushland beside Guide River. A gentle stroll leads to the lower viewing platform at the base of the waterfall, while a short additional section continues to an upper viewing platform overlooking the top of the falls. The track is mostly level with only gentle gradients, making it suitable for visitors of all ages.

Difficulty

The Guide Falls Walk is rated Easy. The short distance, well-maintained surface and minimal elevation change make it suitable for families, casual walkers and visitors with limited bushwalking experience.

Walk Highlights

Guide Falls

Guide Falls is a picturesque multi-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush native forest. Viewing platforms above and below the cascade provide excellent opportunities for photography and allow visitors to appreciate the falls from different perspectives.

Picnic Area

A spacious grassed picnic area near the lower car park makes this an excellent place to relax before or after the walk. The peaceful setting is particularly popular with families and travellers exploring the Burnie hinterland.

Quick and Easy Access

Guide Falls is one of the easiest waterfalls to visit on Tasmania’s North West Coast. The combination of short walking distance, excellent facilities and attractive scenery makes it an ideal stop during a day of sightseeing.

Top Tip: Visit both the upper and lower viewing platforms. The short additional walk provides a completely different perspective of the waterfall and is well worth the extra few minutes.

What to Bring

• Comfortable walking shoes
• A camera or phone for photographs
• Drinking water
• A picnic to enjoy in the reserve
• A light waterproof jacket after rain
• Sun protection during warmer months

Safety

• Take care on wet gravel and viewing platforms after rain.
• Supervise children near the water and lookout areas.
• Remain behind safety barriers at all times.
• Avoid climbing on rocks around the waterfall.
• Wear footwear with good grip during wet conditions.
• Follow all park signage and safety information.

Is the Guide Falls Walk Suitable for Children?

Yes. This is one of the easiest and most family-friendly waterfall walks in north-west Tasmania. The short distance, gentle gradients and nearby picnic area make it an excellent outing for young children, although supervision is recommended near the water and viewing platforms.

Are Dogs Allowed?

Yes. Dogs are permitted within Guide Falls Reserve provided they remain on a lead. Owners should clean up after their pets and ensure they do not disturb wildlife or other visitors.

Getting There

From Burnie, follow the Ridgley Highway (B18) south to the township of Ridgley before turning onto Guide Falls Road. The reserve is approximately 20 minutes by car from Burnie’s city centre and is well signposted from the highway. Both a lower and upper car park provide convenient access to the walking track.

Facilities

Facilities available at Guide Falls Reserve include:

• Public toilets
• Picnic tables
• Grassed picnic area
• Lower and upper car parks
• Viewing platforms
• Rubbish bins

Most visitors begin from the lower car park, which offers the best range of facilities.

Why Walk to Guide Falls?

Guide Falls offers one of the quickest and easiest waterfall experiences in north-west Tasmania, combining attractive scenery with excellent visitor facilities. Its easy access, family-friendly track and peaceful picnic setting make it a popular stop for travellers exploring Burnie, Ridgley and the surrounding region. Whether you’re spending a few minutes stretching your legs or enjoying a leisurely picnic beside the forest, Guide Falls is well worth the short detour.

Important: Water levels and track conditions can change after heavy rain. Wear suitable footwear, supervise children carefully and follow all signs when visiting the reserve.