Kimberley’s Lookout via Redwater Creek Falls

A Loop Walk to Sheffield’s Best View of Mount Roland

Located on the Badger Range above Sheffield, the walk to Kimberley’s Lookout combines forest walking, a seasonal waterfall and some of the best panoramic views of Mount Roland in Tasmania’s North West. The loop follows forest tracks past Redwater Creek Falls before climbing to Kimberley’s Lookout at approximately 548 metres above sea level. Walkers can also continue to nearby Charleys Lookout for another impressive perspective across the surrounding countryside toward Mount Roland. There are a couple of solid climbs along the way, making this more demanding than the shorter Redwater Creek Falls walk, but it should be achievable for reasonably fit walkers.

Walk Overview

Location: Badger Range, near Sheffield, North West Tasmania

Distance: Approximately 7.7 km loop

Time: Approximately 2.5–3 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Track Type: Loop

Track Surface: Mostly well-marked forest single track

Highest Point: Kimberley’s Lookout – approximately 548 metres

Main Features: Redwater Creek Falls, Kimberley’s Lookout and Charleys Lookout

Best Time: A clear day for the best views of Mount Roland

The Walk

The walk begins in the forested Badger Range near Sheffield and initially follows the route toward Redwater Creek Falls. The track passes through attractive fern-filled forest beside Redwater Creek, with plenty of mosses, fungi and lush vegetation to look for along the way. Redwater Creek Falls provides the first major attraction. The waterfall is seasonal and is at its best following periods of rain, while during extended dry conditions the flow can be considerably reduced. Beyond the falls, the walk becomes more demanding as the track begins climbing toward the higher parts of the Badger Range. Two notable climbs eventually bring walkers to Kimberley’s Lookout, approximately 548 metres above sea level, where the forest opens to reveal impressive views toward Mount Roland and the surrounding countryside. From Kimberley’s Lookout, it is worth continuing to nearby Charleys Lookout. The additional distance is relatively short and many walkers consider the view from Charleys Lookout to be even better. The loop then continues through the forest before eventually returning to the starting point.

Terrain

The route follows mostly single-track walking trails through forest, with sections beside Redwater Creek and through fern-filled gullies. The terrain becomes steeper beyond Redwater Creek Falls, with two significant climbs required to reach the lookout areas. The climbs are steady rather than technical, but they add considerably to the difficulty compared with visiting Redwater Creek Falls alone. After rain, sections of the forest track can become wet, muddy and slippery.

Difficulty

The walk is rated Moderate. Although the track is generally straightforward and does not involve technical scrambling, the approximately 7.7 km distance combined with two substantial climbs requires a reasonable level of fitness. Allow around 2.5–3 hours to complete the circuit, with additional time if you plan to stop for photographs, explore the waterfall or spend longer enjoying the views.

Walk Highlights

Kimberley’s Lookout

Kimberley’s Lookout provides an impressive elevated view across the countryside surrounding Sheffield, dominated by the massive profile of Mount Roland. At around 548 metres above sea level, the lookout provides much of the reward of climbing into the surrounding ranges without requiring the considerably more demanding ascent of Mount Roland itself. Charleys Lookout. A short continuation from Kimberley’s Lookout leads to Charleys Lookout. Both viewpoints are worthwhile, although many walkers consider Charleys Lookout to provide the more impressive panorama of Mount Roland and the surrounding landscape.

Redwater Creek Falls

Redwater Creek Falls provides an additional attraction along the lower section of the walk. The waterfall is seasonal and can vary dramatically depending on recent rainfall, making it particularly worthwhile after wet weather. Fern-Filled Forest 

The walk is not only about the viewpoints. Much of the route passes through attractive forest containing ferns, mosses and fungi, with Redwater Creek adding another dimension to the lower sections of the walk.

Top Tip

If you reach Kimberley’s Lookout and still have the time and energy, continue on to Charleys Lookout. The extra distance is relatively short and the additional viewpoint provides another excellent perspective of Mount Roland.

What to Bring

• Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots
• Drinking water
• Snacks for the walk
• Camera or phone for the Mount Roland views
• Light rain jacket
• Warm layer in cooler weather

Safety

• Allow sufficient time to complete the full loop before dark.
• The two main climbs require a reasonable level of fitness.
• Take care on wet, muddy or slippery sections after rain.
• Redwater Creek Falls is seasonal and may have little water during prolonged dry periods.
• Mobile phone reception can be limited on parts of the Badger Range.
• Carry sufficient drinking water, particularly during warmer weather.

Is the Walk Suitable for Children?

The full Kimberley’s Lookout circuit is better suited to older and reasonably fit children. The distance and two significant climbs may be tiring for younger children. Families looking for a shorter and easier option can instead walk only to Redwater Creek Falls before returning to the trailhead.

Are Dogs Allowed?

Dogs are generally welcome on this walk but should be kept on a leash and under effective control. Owners should also carry out all dog waste and be considerate of other walkers and local wildlife.

Getting There

The walk is located on the Badger Range near Sheffield in North West Tasmania. Access is via local roads from Sheffield, followed by an unsealed road leading toward the Redwater Creek walking tracks. Road conditions can vary following heavy rain, so drive carefully on the unsealed section and watch for current signs and track information when approaching the trailhead.

Facilities

Facilities at the trailhead are limited.

• Car parking
• Portable toilet
• Walking track access

There are no facilities once on the walking track, so walkers should carry their own food and drinking water. Nearby Sheffield has toilets, cafes, shops, fuel and other visitor services.

Why Walk Kimberley’s Lookout via Redwater Creek Falls?

Kimberley’s Lookout offers one of the finest views of Mount Roland without having to climb the mountain itself. The combination of Redwater Creek Falls, fern-filled forest, creekside walking and two elevated viewpoints gives the circuit considerably more variety than a simple lookout walk. With the trailhead only a short drive from Sheffield, it is an excellent half-day walk for visitors wanting to experience the forests and mountain scenery of Tasmania’s North West.